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Use Willow Twigs For Rooting Hormone

How to Make Herbal Rooting Compound

By , About.com Guide

When propagating herb cuttings, it is a good idea to use some sort of rooting compound. I prefer using willow twigs and making my own.

Willow twigs are cut in their growing period, which means early spring. Cut them into short 1 inch lengths and place upright, in a glass. Add 1/2 a cup of boiling hot water and cover until cool. This resulting solution is your rooting compound. Use it right away for best results.

I have had great luck for years, using these exact directions. I found out about this technique that was perfected by Dr. Makota Kawase, who studied the effectiveness of willow water in the 1960's.

Willow water is a safe and effective alternative to powdered rooting hormone.

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