How to Make A Natural Root Starter for Free great for Organic Spring Gardens

Willow branches can provide a rooting solution.

Commercial root hormones provide one option for getting cuttings started, but you can also let Mother Nature provide a free alternative endorsed by extension service horticulturalists. You can gather your supplies with a walk in the park or woods, ideally in the spring, with your eyes peeled for willow trees. Willow branches produce a natural growth hormone.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• 1 gallon plastic jug with cap
• New-growth willow tree branches
• Hammer

Instructions

1. Prune new-growth branches of any type of willow sufficient to fill a measuring cup. Split each branch in half. If you gather older branches, tenderize them with a hammer before cutting them up.

2. Cut the branches into 1-inch pieces and put them in a plastic jug filled it with water. Let the brew stand overnight if you have young branches and sit two to three days with mature branches.

3. Strain the liquid. Soak shrub, tree or rose cuttings into the steeped willow concoction overnight to start root propagation. Or pour the liquid over the soil of new plantings or seeds, or even older plants that need root regeneration.

4. Store the root hormone in the fridge for up to a couple of months in a opaque container.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to prune the tree correctly.

References

• University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Willow Water
• Jeff Cox's 100 Greatest Garden Ideas; Jeff Cox