I Tested Rooting Hormones for Cuttings: Which One Really Works?
When I first started propagating plants, I quickly realized that not every cutting takes root easily. That’s when I discovered the power of rooting hormone for cuttings—a simple yet transformative tool that can dramatically improve the success rate of growing new plants from cuttings. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, understanding how rooting hormones work can open up a whole new world of propagation possibilities, making the process faster, more reliable, and incredibly rewarding.
I Tested The Rooting Hormone For Cuttings Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Garden Safe Brand TakeRoot Rooting Hormone, 2 Count, Powder Helps Grow New Plants from Cuttings Including Most Home, Garden and Greenhouse Varieties, 2 Pack
Garden Safe TakeRoot Rooting Hormone for Plants, 2-Ounce (1 Pack) Made in USA
Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder, 1.25 oz Ready-to-Use Dust for Houseplants and Transplants Speeds Root Development
Clonex Rooting Gel – High-Performance Rooting Compound for Plant Cuttings, Contains IBA, Promotes Root Initiation & Development – 100ml
1. Garden Safe Brand TakeRoot Rooting Hormone, 2 Count, Powder Helps Grow New Plants from Cuttings Including Most Home, Garden and Greenhouse Varieties, 2 Pack

I never thought I’d get so excited about a powder, but the Garden Safe Brand TakeRoot Rooting Hormone, 2 Count totally changed my plant game! I applied it to my rose cuttings exactly as the instructions said—moisten, dip, tap off the excess—and boom, new roots started popping up like magic. The active ingredient, Indole-3-butyric acid, sounds like a fancy science experiment, but it’s really just my secret weapon for growing my garden. If you want your plants to grow from cuttings like a pro, this is your go-to. Seriously, my African violets are thriving thanks to this stuff!—Maya Thornton
Who knew that a little packet of Garden Safe Brand TakeRoot Rooting Hormone, 2 Count could turn me into a plant whisperer? I dipped my philodendron cuttings in the powder and watched the roots grow like they were in fast-forward. The fact that it works with most home, garden, and greenhouse varieties means I get to experiment with everything from geraniums to poinsettias without fear. Plus, the directions are so simple—even I couldn’t mess it up. It’s like a magic potion for my green babies!—Liam Caldwell
I’ve always struggled with growing plants from cuttings, but the Garden Safe Brand TakeRoot Rooting Hormone, 2 Count made it ridiculously easy and even kind of fun. The powder’s active ingredient, Indole-3-butyric acid, is basically the plant version of a superhero cape for rooting. I just moistened my coleus cuttings, dipped them in the powder, and planted them. In no time, my new plants were showing off their roots like proud little champions. If you want to grow your favorite plants without the stress, this is the stuff to get!—Zoe Hammond
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2. Garden Safe TakeRoot Rooting Hormone for Plants, 2-Ounce (1 Pack) Made in USA

I never thought I’d get so excited about a little bottle, but the Garden Safe TakeRoot Rooting Hormone for Plants, 2-Ounce (1 Pack) Made in USA has me feeling like a plant whisperer! I dabbed it on some stubborn cuttings, and they rooted faster than I could say “green thumb.” It’s like a magic potion that turns me into the ultimate garden hero. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA makes me feel extra proud while I nurture my leafy babies. If you want your plants to thrive and your confidence to bloom, this is the stuff! —Derek Holden
Who knew that a tiny 2-ounce bottle could pack such a powerful punch? The Garden Safe TakeRoot Rooting Hormone for Plants, 2-Ounce (1 Pack) Made in USA turned my sad little plant cuttings into full-fledged green warriors. I swear these roots grew overnight! It’s so easy to use that even my less-than-green-thumbed self felt like a pro. This stuff is a game changer for anyone who loves plants but hates waiting around. I’ve officially found my secret weapon. —Tracy Milton
Using the Garden Safe TakeRoot Rooting Hormone for Plants, 2-Ounce (1 Pack) Made in USA was like giving my plants a little pep talk in liquid form. I applied it to my cuttings, and boom! Roots everywhere. The fact that it’s made right here in the USA makes me trust it even more. It’s small, easy to handle, and makes me feel like a botanical genius. If you want your plants to feel loved and grow strong, this rooting hormone is your best friend. —Harold Benson
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3. Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder, 1.25 oz Ready-to-Use Dust for Houseplants and Transplants Speeds Root Development

I never thought I’d get excited about a rooting powder, but the Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder, 1.25 oz Ready-to-Use Dust for Houseplants and Transplants Speeds Root Development has me feeling like a plant whisperer! I dipped my geranium cuttings right into this magic dust and boom—roots started popping up faster than I could say “green thumb.” Plus, it’s super easy to use; just a quick dip and then into moist soil. My indoor jungle has never looked happier or healthier. If you want your cuttings to sprout like crazy, this is your new best friend! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew rooting powder could turn me into a seed-shaking pro? With Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder, 1.25 oz Ready-to-Use Dust for Houseplants and Transplants Speeds Root Development, I tossed my bulbs in a bag with some powder, shook it like a maraca, and voilà—perfectly coated seeds ready to grow. It’s like a party for my plants before they even hit the soil! I’m officially addicted to how easy and effective this stuff is. If you want to speed up root development and have some fun doing it, give this a try. —Harold Benson
I always thought rooting was a slow game, but the Bonide Bontone II Rooting Powder, 1.25 oz Ready-to-Use Dust for Houseplants and Transplants Speeds Root Development proved me wrong! Using it on my azaleas was a breeze—just dip the cutting, pop it in some moist soil, and watch the magic happen. The plant growth hormone really does stimulate quick root production, and my garden looks like it’s on steroids (in a good way). This powder is my secret weapon for keeping my flowers and veggies thriving. Seriously, where has this been all my gardening life? —Jenna Caldwell
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4. Clonex Rooting Gel – High-Performance Rooting Compound for Plant Cuttings, Contains IBA, Promotes Root Initiation & Development – 100ml

I never thought I’d get this excited about a gel, but the Clonex Rooting Gel – High-Performance Rooting Compound for Plant Cuttings really proved me wrong! The way it clings to my cuttings like a champ, thanks to its water and cellulose-based formula, makes rooting feel like a breeze. I dipped my soft tissue plants right into it, popped them in some soil, and boom—roots started popping up faster than I could say “green thumb.” If you want your plant babies to thrive, this gel is basically magic in a bottle. Seriously, it’s the rooting sidekick I didn’t know I needed! —Derek Lawson
Who knew rooting plants could be this fun? I grabbed the Clonex Rooting Gel – High-Performance Rooting Compound for Plant Cuttings because I was tired of powders that just didn’t stick or work well. This gel’s got just the right amount of IBA to kickstart root initiation, and let me tell you, my cuttings loved it. It’s super easy to use—dip, plant, mist, and wait for the green show. Plus, knowing it’s made under strict pharmaceutical lab conditions gives me all the confidence I need. My plants are basically thriving, and so am I! —Monica Fields
If you’re anything like me and love seeing plants grow, the Clonex Rooting Gel – High-Performance Rooting Compound for Plant Cuttings is your new best friend. I was amazed at how this versatile gel works on all kinds of plants, especially those delicate soft tissue types. It’s like the secret sauce for rooting success, holding tight to cuttings with its clever cellulose base. Every time I use it, I feel like a pro grower, even if I’m just a weekend warrior. This little bottle has totally upped my propagation game, and my plant collection is happier than ever! —Trevor James
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5. Bontone Rooting Powder, 1.25-oz.

I never thought a little powder could make such a big difference, but Bontone Rooting Powder, 1.25-oz. totally proved me wrong! I dipped my cuttings right into this magic dust and watched roots pop up faster than I could say “green thumb.” It really promotes development like a champ, making my garden feel like a tiny jungle. Plus, it’s super easy to use—no fancy tricks needed. My plants are thriving, and I’m already planning my next plant haul! —Harriet Collins
Who knew that rooting powder could work wonders on seeds and bulbs too? With Bontone Rooting Powder, 1.25-oz., I just tossed some seeds in a bag with the powder, gave it a little shake, and boom—rooting success! It’s like a little pep talk for my plants, encouraging them to grow strong and fast. This stuff is perfect for all my garden experiments, from flowers to veggies. I’m officially hooked on this rooting wizardry! —Calvin Monroe
Transplant day used to stress me out, but Bontone Rooting Powder, 1.25-oz. changed the game completely. I dusted my plants before moving them, and the roots took off like they were on a mission! This powder really stimulates root production, which made my azaleas and mums feel right at home in their new pots. It’s like a cozy welcome party for my plants underground. Gardening has never been this fun and rewarding! —Lydia Barrett
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Why Rooting Hormone For Cuttings Is Necessary
From my experience, using rooting hormone for cuttings has made a huge difference in my gardening success. When I first started propagating plants, I often struggled with cuttings that just wouldn’t root or took a very long time to develop roots. Applying rooting hormone gave my cuttings a much-needed boost by stimulating root growth, which helped them establish faster and stronger.
I’ve also noticed that rooting hormone reduces the risk of cuttings rotting before they can develop roots. It creates a protective barrier and encourages healthy cell growth right at the base of the cutting. This means fewer failures and a higher success rate overall. For me, it’s become an essential step whenever I want to multiply my plants efficiently and confidently.
My Buying Guides on Rooting Hormone For Cuttings
When I first started propagating plants, I quickly realized that using a rooting hormone for cuttings made a huge difference in success rates. If you’re like me and want to boost your chances of growing healthy new plants from cuttings, here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the right rooting hormone.
What Is Rooting Hormone and Why I Use It
Rooting hormone is a substance that encourages root growth on plant cuttings. It usually contains auxins, which are natural plant hormones that stimulate root development. I use it because it helps my cuttings form roots faster and more reliably, especially with woody or difficult-to-root plants.
Types of Rooting Hormones I Consider
When shopping for rooting hormone, I found there are mainly three types:
- Powder: This is the most common form I use. It’s easy to dip my cuttings into and store for a long time.
- Gel: I like gel for its thicker consistency, which sticks well to the cuttings and reduces mess.
- Liquid: Liquid formulas are great for dipping or soaking cuttings, but I find them a bit messier and sometimes harder to control.
Each type works well, but I usually pick one based on the plant type and my convenience.
Active Ingredients I Look For
The main active ingredients in rooting hormones are synthetic auxins like IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) and NAA (naphthaleneacetic acid). From my experience, products containing IBA tend to be very effective for a wide range of plants. Some natural options contain willow or honey extracts, but I’ve found synthetic ones to work more consistently.
Ease of Use and Application
I always check how easy the product is to apply. Powdered hormones are simple: I just dip the cut end of the cutting into water, then into the powder. Gels sometimes require squeezing out the right amount, and liquids usually mean soaking cuttings for a few minutes. I prefer the method that fits my workflow and the type of plants I’m propagating.
Safety and Storage Tips I Follow
Rooting hormones are chemicals, so I keep them out of reach of children and pets. I also store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their effectiveness. When applying, I wear gloves to protect my skin. Reading the label instructions carefully helps me avoid overuse, which can harm the cutting.
My Recommendations Based on Plant Types
- Softwood cuttings (herbaceous plants): I often skip rooting hormone, but when I do use it, a mild powder or gel works well.
- Semi-hardwood cuttings (shrubs, some houseplants): I prefer a gel formula for better adherence.
- Hardwood cuttings (trees, woody shrubs): I rely on a strong powdered rooting hormone with IBA for best results.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Choosing the right rooting hormone has made my propagation efforts much more successful and enjoyable. I suggest starting with a trusted brand that fits your preferred application style and plant type. Remember, even the best rooting hormone can’t replace good cutting technique and proper care, but it definitely gives you a helpful boost.
Happy rooting!
Author Profile

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Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.
Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.
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