A plant rooter (also known as rooting hormone) is used when propagating cuttings to produce new plants. It is a plant hormone that will cause the cutting to create new roots at a faster rate than it would on its own. Not all species require the use of a plant rooter, but it can be a helpful tool. The most common version available to homeowners is a powder, while commercial companies and researchers usually use a liquid form.
Pour some of the plant rooter into a small container. As the Ohio State University Extension Service points out, this will help ensure against the possibility of the whole jar of plant rooter becoming contaminated.
Poke a hole in the potting soil with a pencil or stick. This will allow the cutting to be placed into the soil without brushing off the rooter.
Strip off the bottom sets of leaves on the stem. Remove any that would be below the soil once planted, as these could rot.
Use a garden knife to make a cut about 1/4 inch below a lower leaf joint (called a node).
Dip the end of the cutting into the plant rooter. Tap gently on the edge of the container to remove any excess hormone.
Place the cutting into the hole, making sure to avoid touching the sides if possible. Gently firm the soil around the stem.
