What Strength Rooting Powder Should I Use?
The right Hormex Rooting Powder depends on the stem you cut, not just the plant. Use this quick bend test to choose between #1, #3, #8 and #16.
The bend test
Look at the bottom of your cutting and gently bend it. Then match it to one of these:
Soft and green. The stem is green all the way through and bends easily. This is fresh new growth.
Examples: pothos, coleus, African violet, basil, mint
Shop #1Starting to firm up. The stem still bends but has some spring to it, and the base may be just starting to change color.
Examples: rose, gardenia, lavender, rosemary, fig
Shop #3Partly woody. The base is firm and turning tan or brown, and the stem feels stiff when you bend it.
Examples: azalea, boxwood, citrus, olive, lilac
Shop #8Fully woody or hard to root. The stem is brown with hard bark and snaps rather than bends, often from dormant-season wood.
Examples: juniper, holly, yew, eastern red cedar
Shop #16When one plant can use two strengths
Many plants change as their stems mature, so the same plant can call for different strengths at different times. Tropical hibiscus is a good example: use #3 for soft, green cuttings and #8 for firm, brown (semi-hardwood) cuttings.
Rule of thumb: If the plant list shows two strengths, use the lower number for soft, green cuttings and the higher number for firm, woody cuttings.
More about Hormex Rooting Powder
WHICH STRENGTH ROOTING POWDER SHOULD I USE WITH MY PLANTS?
There are many variables that influence the successful cloning of plants. At the forefront is the consistency of the atmospheric conditions. However, there is another vital factor that growers focus on to increase not only the percentage of clones to successfully take root but also the speed at which the clones develop roots. This vital factor is the rooting hormone. This is where Hormex Rooting Powder comes into play. Hormex Rooting Powder is available in four strengths: #1, #3, #8 and #16, with different IBA concentrations for different rooting needs. This is why so many professional and hobbyist gardeners use it. It needs to be mentioned that Hormex Rooting Powder does not contain unnecessary fillers or additives, such as dyes, alcohol, or preservatives for healthier cuttings / plants. No other rooting product or method will root and grow plants as fast and healthy as Hormex Rooting Powder. Therefore, you get truly unrivaled cloning success!
If you still aren't sure, email us the unlisted plant varieties or species and we will reply to your email with the proper strength and update the list within 24 hours. Even on weekends!
