Rootinghormoner

Rooting hormones, also known as rooting compounds or root stimulants, are substances that promote root development in plants. They are commonly used in plant propagation, particularly for cuttings, to increase the success rate of rooting. These hormones can be naturally occurring or synthetically produced.

The most important class of rooting hormones are auxins. Naturally occurring auxins in plants include indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Synthetic auxins, such as indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), are often used in commercial rooting products due to their stability and effectiveness. These compounds work by stimulating cell division and differentiation in the cambium and vascular tissues of the plant stem or leaf, leading to the formation of adventitious roots.

Rooting hormones are available in various forms, including powders, gels, and liquids. Powders are typically applied by dipping the cut end of the plant material into the hormone before planting. Gels offer good adhesion to the cutting and can be easily applied. Liquid solutions are often used for soaking cuttings or for drenching the soil around the base of a plant.

The concentration and type of rooting hormone used can depend on the plant species and the type of propagation material. Some plants are more sensitive to auxins than others, and excessive concentrations can sometimes inhibit rooting or cause other adverse effects. While rooting hormones significantly increase the chances of successful propagation, other factors such as moisture, temperature, and light also play crucial roles in root formation.