Buy new plants from the nursery? Since there are effective tools for rooting cuttings, ambitious gardeners no longer have to do this. Would you also like to propagate your plants independently? Use willow water to speed up root formation. You can even make the product yourself. In this article we will explain how it works.
How does willow water help with cuttings propagation?
Willow water promotes root formation in cuttings by containing natural growth hormones from willow branches. Homemade willow water is used by immersing cuttings in it for 1-2 hours or by drizzling it on cuttings that have already been planted. This accelerates growth and improves flower formation.
What is willow water?
Willow water is an extract that is naturally obtained from the bark of a willow branch. The genus of willow trees naturally produces useful growth hormone. This is exactly the secret of why willows are so easy to reproduce. In terms of its effectiveness, willow water is similar to Clonex rooting powder. However, it is very easy to make yourself and has been known to people for a long time.
Make your own willow water
Save a lot of money and look forward to fast and he althy growth of your cuttings by making your own pasture water according to the following instructions:
- Cut fresh, young branches of a willow tree.
- These should be as thin as possible.
- Spring is best for making.
- But the chances of success are also good during the summer or autumn.
- Remove all leaves from the branches.
- Short the branches to a length of 1 to 2 cm.
- Fill a cup halfway with water, put the branches in it and let them soak for 2 or 3 days.
- Take the willow branches and put the water through a sieve.
Note: Don't be put off if the liquid gives off an unpleasant smell and looks very cloudy. These properties arise from the natural breakdown of hormones. Since this is a (harmless) precursor to mold formation, you should completely use up your pasture water within 2 weeks.
Propagate cuttings with willow water
To speed up the propagation of cuttings with the self-made willow water, proceed as follows:
- Place loose cuttings in willow water for 1 to 2 hours.
- Sprinkle already planted cuttings with the willow water.
- You can use the liquid on all types of plants.
Further positive effects
Not only will the growth of your cuttings accelerate thanks to the addition of pasture water. Experience has shown that the flowers also appear more lush and the plant grows stockier and fuller.
