Hortus
Plant Propagation
from Cuttings
A Guide to Using Plant
Rooting Hormones by
Foliar and Basal Methods
Third Edition
Hortus USA Corp.
su pport@hortus.com
rooting hormones. com
Hortus USA Corp.
PO Box 1956
New York NY 10113
support @ hortus.com
rootinghormones.com
Support Line (Phytotronics) 314-770-0717
© Hortus USA Corp. 2016. All Rights Reserved
US Library Of Congress ISSN 2331-0456
Hortus
Plant Propagation from Cuttings
A Guide to Using Plant Rooting Hormones
by Foliar and Basal Methods
Third Edition
Written by Joel Krain
with assistance from Kees Eigenraam (Rhizopon),
Cliff Hoogland (Phytotronics), and information
from Dr. Fred Davies and Bailey Nurseries
Published by
Plant Propagation from Cuttings is the
most effective way to clone plants that
are identical to the stock plant
Five Successful Methods
Basal Methods
Use Dry Powder Rooting Hormones:
Dry Dip Method
Use /BA Rooting Solutions:
Basal Quick Dip Method
Long Soak Method
Foliar Methods
Use /BA Rooting Solutions:
Spray Drip Down™ Method
Total Immerse Method
The World's Finest Plant Rooting Products
Rooting Solutions
/BA Rooting Solutions:
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
Dry Powder
Rooting Hormones
Color Coded Powders in Three Concentrations:
Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Plant Propagation Methods and Products
Propagation from Cuttings: Products and Methods ................
Common Questions .......................................
Products for IBA Rooting Solutions & Rooting Powders ............
Methods to Propagate Plants from Cuttings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rates for Rooting Solutions and Dry Dip .......................
How to Take and Handle Cuttings ............................
Pages
2-4
5-8
9-17
18-29
30-38
39-47
Articles
Propagate plants from cuttings using foliar applied aqueous (water based)
IBA rooting solutions.
Tips: do's and don 't's
By Joel Krain, President, Hortus USA Corp.
Presentation made at the International Plant Propagators Society (2014)
Foliar applied rooting solutions for plant propagation from cuttings:
historical background and utility.
History and methods to apply rooting solutions by basal and foliar
methods.
By Joel Krain, President, Hortus USA Corp.
Presentation made at the International Plant Propagators Society (2014)
Growth regulator effects on adventitious root formation in leaf bud cuttings
of juvenile and mature Ficus pumila
Physiology of foliar methods and their relationship to the juvenality &
maturity of cuttings.
By Frederick T. Davies and J. N Joiner
J. Am. Soc. Hort. Science (1980)
Auxin application via foliar sprays
How Bailey Nurseries implemented plant propagation using foliar
applied /BA rooting solutions
By Samuel Drahn, Senior Researcher, Bailey Nurseries
Presentation made at the International Plant Propagators Society (2007)
Label
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Products Used to Make Rooting Solutions
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts & Rhizopon AA
Water Soluble Tablets are used by ALL BASAL and
FOLIAR Methods and Rates (Quick Dip, Basal Long
Soak, Spray Drip Down and Total Immerse Methods.)
They replace technical IBA and K-IBA, and pre-mix
rooting products, with MORE applications.
Both products contain the water soluble active
ingredient: lndole-3-butyric acid (IBA).
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts® (20%)
• Measure Hortus IBA
Water Soluble Salts using
a scale then mix into
ordinary water.
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble
Salts are water soluble to
OVER 100,000 ppm IBA,
remain in solution at any
concentration.
• Count Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets then mix
into ordinary water.
• Rh izopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets are water
soluble to 1500 ppm IBA.
2
Products Used by the Basal Dry Dip
Method
Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3 Dry Dip Rooting Hormones are
always ready to use by the Basal Dry Dip Method.
Rhizopon® AA #1
(0.1)
• Active Ingredient 0.1 % lndole-3-butyric acid (IBA)
• Color identified Pink Color Powder.
• Use on easy to root cuttings.
Rhizopon® AA #2 (0.3)
•
•
•
•
Active Ingredient 0.3% lndole-3-butyric acid (IBA)
Color identified Green Color Powder.
An intermediate all purpose product.
Use on easy to more difficult to root cuttings.
Rhizopon® AA #3 (0.8)
• Active Ingredient 0.8% lndole-3-butyric acid (IBA)
• Color identified White Color Powder.
• Use on more difficult to root cuttings.
3
Foliar Methods
Use Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
and Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets to Make Rooting Solutions
SPRAY DRIP DOWN™ METHOD
• Stick cuttings.
• Spray the Rooting Solution onto
leaves until drip down.
TOT AL IMMERSE METHOD
• Total immerse the cuttings a few
seconds in the Rooting Solution.
• Drain.
• Stick cuttings.
Basal Methods
BASAL QUICK DIP METHOD
• Immerse basal end of cuttings a few
seconds in the Rooting Solution.
• Stick cuttings.
BASAL LONG SOAK METHOD
• Immerse basal end of cuttings a few
hours in the Rooting Solution.
• Stick cuttings.
Use Rhizopon AA#1, #2 and #3
Dry Dip Rooting Hormones
DRY DIP METHOD
• Dip basal end of cuttings in the
Rhizopon AA rooting powder.
• Stick cuttings.
4
Questions you want to ask when reading this book
About the Products
How much Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts do I need?
• A Rooting Solution, for one gallon at 1000 ppm, uses 19
grams of Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts.
• By the Basal Long Soak and Basal Quick Dip Methods one
gallon of Rooting Solution can treat many thousand cuttings.
• By the Spray Drip Down Method one gallon of Rooting
Solution can treat 175-225 square feet of propagation trays.
• For typical use, at 100 ppm IBA, annual cuttings use 1.9
grams of Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts per gallon.
Can I make a concentrated stock mix?
Rooting Solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
can be made to over 100,000 ppm IBA using ordinary water.
Growers can make up concentrated Rooting Solutions in the
production office. The concentrated Rooting Solution can be
added to the production tank in the work area then add water to
bring the solution to full rate.
What is the keeping life of a Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Rooting Solution?
• An un-used Rooting Solution can be used for several days
after make-up if stored at normal room temperature and light.
Solutions made for the Spray Drip Down Method are un-used
until sprayed. (See pages 16-17 for solution notes.)
• The Total Immerse, Basal Long Soak and Basal Quick Dip
Methods use the Rooting Solution on each treated plant lot.
Dispose used Rooting Solutions between production lots to
avoid cross contamination.
What is the keeping life of dry Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts,
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets and un-used Rhizopon AA
dry powder rooting hormones?
Un-used, DRY, in the original container, sealed, and at room
temperature, the products retain potency for many years.
Refrigeration is not required. Do NOT allow the powders to
become damp or wet. (See pages 16-17 for notes.)
5
What is the cost of Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts compared
with so called 'pre-mix' rooting products? How is Hortus IBA
Water Soluble Salts different from a pre-mix?
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts cost about 1/3 to 1/5 the price
of 'pre-mix' rooting solutions.
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts can be shipped by ordinary
means. 'Pre-mix' rooting solutions can incur 'hazardous
shipping charges'.
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts Rooting Solutions are made
by the grower using ordinary water; the Rooting Solutions can
never cause solvent toxicity. Alcohol based 'pre-mix rooting
solutions may cause alcohol toxicity to the cuttings especially
at high concentrations .
. 'Pre-mix contain un-needed ingredients; NAA in them has
little plant need and not used by European growers.
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts & Rhizopon
AA Water Soluble Tablets, dissolved in water,
make IBA and KIBA rooting solutions for all
applications.
What is the difference between Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets and technical IBAIKIBA?
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts & Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets make IBA and KIBA rooting solutions used for
all basal and foliar methods.
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts, Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets, and Rhizopon AA dry powers are registered with the
US EPA for use by plant growers.
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts make solutions to over
100,000 ppm IBA/KIBA. Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
make solutions to over 1500 ppm IBA/KIBA.
The US EPA does not permit technical IBA and KIBA to be
used by plant growers; none are labeled for any use by plant
growers. IBA can only be dissolved in dangerous solvents.
KIBA, dissolved in water, is unstable; both IBA and KIBA drop
out of solution at nominal ppm's.
6
What is the WPS re-entry interval (REI) for H ortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA products?
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and all Rhizopon AA products
have US EPA labels with ZERO hour REI. After sticking and
treating, workers and handlers can enter the growing area any
time without PPE.
How do I select Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA
Water Soluble Tablets?
Both products are used in both foliar and basal methods.
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts:
Measured using a scale; useful where large production
tanks are used.
Useful when growers require high concentrations.
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets:
Measured by counting tablets; useful where a scale is
not available.
Useful when growers require low concentrations or small
liquid volumes.
About the Rooting Solution Methods
Why would I want to use 'Foliar' compared to 'Basal' Rooting
Solution methods?
Foliar methods are used on leafy plants in the growing season.
Basal methods are used all year. Foliar methods treat cuttings
uniformly. Basal Quick Dip Method may have variable
treatment. Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA
Water Soluble tablets are used by the Quick Dip Method
and all Foliar methods, but Quick Dip uses more labor.
When can I turn on misters after treating by the Spray
Drip Down Method?
Growers usually wait 3/4 hour or until the Rooting
Solution dries on the leaves.
Is special equipment needed for foliar methods?
The Spray Drip Down Method uses standard spray equipment
such as backpacks, hydraulic, booms, tractor mounted
sprayers, robots, hand sprayers, and custom spray carts
specific to needs. The Total immerse Method uses a simple
tank and strainer.
7
About the Dry Dip Rooting Hormones &
Comparison with Rooting Solutions
How many cuttings can be treated using Rhiwpon AA dry
powders?
One pound of Rhizopon AA dry powder rooting hormones can
treat about 30,000 cuttings.
Is there a difference in rooting between using 'Rooting
Solutions' or 'dry powder rooting hormones'?
Hortus USA sells both dry powder rooting hormones and
products to make water based IBA rooting Solutions, both ways
are beneficial. Growers usually have long standing preferences.
Use should be based upon the variety, time of the year,
maturity of the cuttings and quality of the stock plants. Many US
growers prefer Rooting Solutions, while some European
growers prefer Dry Dip powder rooting hormones.
How are Rhiwpon AA dry powder rooting hormones different
from other brand dry powder rooting products?
Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3 are made with high loft talc
resulting in uniform coverage of the treated cutting. The
powders are color coded to identify the product: Rhizopon
AA#-1 is pink, Rhizopon AA#-2 is green and Rhizopon AA#-3 is
white . Color coding helps the production workers to pick and
use the proper product. All production lots are laboratory tested
to assure they have uniform mix and meet the required
concentration.
Why do I need rooting
hormones to propagate 'easyto-root' cuttings?
Cuttings require applied IBA
rooting hormones to rapidly
produce high root mass, with
uniform roots and upper growth .
Fine quality roots produced
by Bailey Nursery using the
Spray Drip Down Method
8
Hortus IBA
Water Soluble
Salts
Water Soluble to Over
100,000 ppm IBA
RhizoponAA
Water Soluble
Tablets
Pre-measured - Count and Mix
RhizoponAA
Dry Powder
Rooting
Hormones
The Most Popular Concentrations
READY
TO USE
DRY
POWDER
ROOTING
HORMONES
9
NATURAL ROOTING
HORMONES are
produced in the
LEAVES of plants
Rooting Hormones
are applied to leaves
using WATER based
ROOTING SOLUTIONS.
The Hormones enter
the plant through
open stomata
セ@
Water is the natural
carrier for Rooting
Hormones
Mass Flow moves the
Natural and Applied
Rooting Hormones to
the BASAL END of the
cutting. The Basal End
is a sink point
BASAL LONG SOAK MEtHOD
セ@
·"
BASAL DRY DIP METHOD
10
ROOTS are induced to
form at the Basal End
by action of the
Natural and Applied
Rooting Hormones
Methods to Propagate Plants from
Cuttings
Cutting Types and Methods
USE ON TYPE
OF CUTTINGS
Dry
Dip
Basal
Quick
Dip
Basal
Long
Soak
Spray
Drip
Down
Total
Immerse
.I
.I
.I
.I
.I
.I
.I
.I
no
no
(leafless)
(leafless)
.I
.I
.I
no
no
(dormant)
(dormant)
LEAFY
CUTTINGS
• Ornamental
plants
• Herbaceous
plants
In the Growing
Season
LEAFLESS
CUTTINGS
• Ornamental
plants
• Herbaceous
plants
All Year Including
Winter Cuttings
•EASY-TORPOT
セardMto
ROOT
Dormant in
the Winter
11
Basal and Foliar Methods
METHOD
BASAL
METHODS
1
PRODUCT TYPE
DRY DIP
METHOD
Dry Dip Powder
I'
BASAL
LONG
SOAK
METHOD
セ@
6
FOLIAR
METHODS
SPRAY
DRIP
DOWN
METHOD
TOTAL
IMMERSE
METHOD
RHIZOPONAA
#1, #2 & #3
Dip basal end in
rooting powder then
stick.
Powders stay on
cuttings a long
time.
BASAL
QUICK
DIP
METHOD
PRODUCT
I
Rooting Solution
Dip basal end in
rooting solution
then stick.
Dry Powder
Rooting
Hormones
Use dry> not
used to make
rooting solutions
HORTUS IBA
WATER
SOLUBLE
SALTS
Rooting Solution
or
Dip basal end of
cuttings in rooting
solution about 12 to
48 hours (nominal)
then stick.
RHIZOPON AA
WATER
SOLUBLE
TABLETS
Rooting Solution
Stick then spray
leaves of cuttings
with rooting solution
until the solution
drips down.
Rooting Solution
Totally immerse
cuttings in rooting
solution then stick.
12
Use to make
rooting solutions
Using Rooting Solutions made with
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
PREPARING A ROOTING SOLUTION
Weigh the required amount of Hortus IBA Water Soluble
Salts. Measure by weight not volume: do not scoop.
• Use tap water from 60F to about -11 OF (water temperature
used for hand washing). At higher temperature Salts dissolve
fastest. (See pages 16-17 for handling). Do not dissolve
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts in liquids other than water.
• Mix: dissolve Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts in water.
• Add water to the mixing container to bring the Rooting
Solution to the final volume.
• Apply the solution by the selected method.
After use, dispose of the solution as described in the
'Storage and Disposal' statements on the product label.
AVOID CROSS CONTAMINATION OF SOLUTIONS
For the Total Immerse, Basal Quick Dip and Basal Long Soak
Methods dispose of Rooting Solutions between plant lots to
avoid cross contamination.
Using the Spray Drip Down Method the Rooting Solution is
used one time and there is no cross-contamination. Solutions
can be used completely. (See pages 16-17 for handling).
STOCK SOLUTIONS
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts mixed in water to make stock
Rooting Solutions can be made in any concentration up to
100,000 ppm IBA!
USE METRIC SYSTEM
Use the metric system when calculating the ppm IBA for Hortus
IBA Water Soluble Salts Rooting Solutions. The system allows for
easy calculation of liquid volume to concentration.
NO WETTING AGENTS
Rooting Solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts are
specially formulated to have a low surface tension needed for
foliar methods. Additional wetting agents are not recommended.
13
Rooting Solution Rate Chart:
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
To make 100 ppm IBA dissolve 0.5 grams in 1 liter water
Parts per million
IBA
(ppm IBA)
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
gms/liter water
gms/gallon water
(1 gal 3.8 liter)
=
50ppm IBA
0.25 grams
.95 grams
100
0.5
1.9
200
1.0
3.8
250
1.25
4.7
300
1.5
5.7
400
2.0
7.6
500
2.5
9.5
600
3.0
11.3
700
3.5
13.2
750
3.75
14.2
800
4.0
15
900
4.5
17
1000
5.0
19
1500
7.5
28.5
2000
10.0
38
2500
12.5
47
5000
25.0
95
10,000
50.0
190
MAKE ANY RATE
100,000
500
14
1900
Using Rooting Solutions made with
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
Count the required amount of Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
as shown in the chart below.
Use tap water from 60F to about -11 OF (water temperature used for
hand washing). At higher temperature the Tablets dissolve fastest.
(See pages 16-17 for handling.) Do not dissolve Rhizopon AA
Water Soluble Tablets in liquids other than water.
Mix: dissolve Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets in the water. A
small amount of undissolved particles in the solution is normal and
does not affect results. If precipitation occurs with tap water then
dissolve in distilled, demineralized, or filtered water. Add water to
the mixing container to bring the solution to the final volume.
Apply the solution by the selected method.
After use: See pages 16-17 for handling and disposal.
Avoid cross contamination of solutions. For the Total Immerse
Method and basal methods, dispose of solutions between plant lots
to avoid cross contamination. Using the Spray Drip Down Method
the solution is used one time and there is no cross-contamination.
Rooting Solution Rate Conversion Chart:
I
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Parts per million
IBA
(ppm IBA)
Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets
per liter water
gms/liter water
50 ppm
1 tablet
0.25 grams
0.95 grams
100
2
0.5
1.9
200
4
1.0
3.a
300
6
1.5
5.7
400
8
2.0
7.6
500
10
2.5
9.5
600
12
3.0
11.3
700
14
3.5
13.2
800
16
4.0
15
900
18
4.5
1,000
20
5.0
15
gms/gallon water
(1 gal= 3.8 liter)
1
Handling Dry Products & Rooting Solutions
STORAGE OF DRY PRODUCTS
Rhizopon AA #1, #2 & #3 Dry Dip Rooting Hormones, Hortus
IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets are provided dry. Store dry products at room
temperature. They do not require refrigeration. The dry
products will be fully active for many years.
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets are sensitive to humidity. Store them dry to
avoid caking and difficulty to dissolve.
Store the dry products in their original sea/able labeled
containers.
ROOTING SOLUTION WATER QUALITY
Ordinary tap water is usually used to make Rooting Solutions.
If the Rooting Solution is clear, having a small amount of
particles, then the active ingredient is in solution and ready to
use.
Hard, well or pond water may reduce solubility; in those cases
use another source such as filtered or demineralized water.
AVOID CONTAMINATION OF SOLUTIONS
The Spray Drip Down Method uses the Rooting Solution one
time. Since no plant material is introduced to the solution,
they will not be contaminated by dragging-in of organic
materials. (See page 17.)
The Basal Quick Dip, Total Immerse, and Basal Long Soak
Methods use the Rooting Solution by having the plant
material dipped into them. To avoid cross-contamination, use
fresh Rooting Solutions between production lots. Preferably,
solutions used by dipping should be disposed after four hours
of use. Do not store used solutions. (See page 17.)
STORAGE OF UN-USED ROOTING SOLUTIONS:
Stock and production Solutions made with Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
maintain full potency for several days when kept in a closed
container, at room temperature and normal light.
(See page 17 for disposal.)
16
DIP SOLUTION DISPOSAL
The following on 'disposal' may be applied to any solution
where plant material is dipped and further used. After initial
dipping the solution, drag-in of contaminates from the plants can
be detrimental to further lots. (Spray Drip Down Method solutions
do not become contaminated, they are not used by dipping.)
Solutions used to dip plant material can cross contaminate
production lots by pathogens and other toxicities including
chemical pre-treatments before use of the rooting solution.
Before rooting hormone treatment and sticking, plant cuttings
should be washed. Cutting from plantations have been precleaned but need inspection. Rooting solutions for dipping are
used by the basal Quick Dip, Basal Long Soak and Total
Immerse Methods.
It is important to identifying plant cuttings that can cause
phytotoxicity cross-contamination. Cuttings arriving from carefully
inspected plant plantations may have low possibility for
phytotoxicity problems. Cuttings taken from general field stocks
have high possibility for phytotoxicity problems. Homogenous
cuttings, taken from the same stock area, should be considered
to have assumed some cross-contamination. Dip solutions used
for these cuttings should be disposed after the production lot is
completed. Solutions that show visible particulates should be
disposed and replaced before treating the next plant lot.
Solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets remain active during the
short term treatment process. Dip solutions should be disposed
after treating large homogenous lots. For well inspected cuttings
with low possibilities of contamination, dispose solutions should
be within four hours after the start of dip treatments.
Simple Tip to PRE-MEASURE SALTS:
RE-USE EMPTY CONTAINERS
To batch measure DRY Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and
save for later, save empty Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
containers with original covers and labels. If a particular powder
weight is used for production tank loads, measure that amount.
Put the weighed powder into the re-used empty containers. Cover
securely. Mark the containers with the weight and save to make
solutions later.
17
Overview of Foliar Methods
•
•
•
•
The Foliar Spray Drip Down and Total Immerse Methods
are used on cuttings that are leafy in the growing season.
Foliar methods are not used on dormant or leafless cuttings.
Rooting Solutions are applied to the leaves of cuttings.
Foliar methods use Rooting Solutions that are made using
water only, applied by spray onto foliage or totally immerse.
For foliar methods only use Rooting Solutions made with
water and Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA
Water Soluble Tablets. Never use other 'Rooting Solutions'
made with active solvents since they will dehydrate and kill
plant cells.
ROOTING SOLUTIONS PRODUCTS
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts (weigh/mix)
• Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (count/mix)
MODE OF ACTION
Water-based Rooting Solutions are applied to leaves of cuttings.
The Rooting Solutions enter the plant through stomata, the
minute openings in the leaf. The stomata allow entry into the
plant of gases and liquids such as the Rooting Solution. After
entry into the vascular system of the plant, the rooting hormones
in the Rooting Solution move by mass flow to the basal end of
the cuttings. Plants store rooting hormones at the basal end
where they are slow released to induce roots.
METHODS
TOTAL IMMERSE
METHOD
SPRAY DIP DOWN
METHOD
PRODUCTS TO USE
Use Rooting Solutions made with
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
Selection of either the Spray Drip Down or Total Immerse
Method, usually depends upon the type of cuttings and
facility needs. Where large homogenous plant lots are
propagated, usually the Spray Drip Down is used. For large
leaf cuttings, Total Immerse may be better.
18
USE SECONDARY & SEQUENTIAL FOLIAR TREATMENTS
• Overcome slow root development
• Improve transplanting of rooted cuttings.
• Level the production crop.
• Improve roots of cuttings which were already treated by
any method, either rooted or un-rooted.
To level crops, secondary weekly Spray Drip Down Method
foliar applications are used on leafy cuttings in the active
growing state, at rates similar to the first initial rate. First
application may be any method.
•
Increase production of root mass
For sequential day application, see the article "Propagate
Plants from Cuttings Using Foliar Applied Aqueous IBA Rooting
Solutions. Tips: Do's and Don'ts", topic "Sequential Treatment".
Article after the numbered a es.
STOCK PLANT PREPARATION FOR FOLIAR METHODS
The stock plants must be adequately fertilized and kept in light
during the days before the cuttings are taken. These factors allow
the plant to store carbohydrates necessary for root formation.
ADJUSTING THE FOLIAR RATE
Use as low a rate as possible to achieve rooting.
When root formation is slow in formation trial at a higher rate.
When foliar methods produce leaf spotting, leaf curl, or leaf
drop it may be caused by inadequate stock plant preparation
or too high a rate.
Scientific Groundwork on Foliar Applied Aqueous IBA
Rooting Hormones
Dr. Fred T. Davies (co-author of ' Plant Propagation
Principles and Practices') did successful plant rooting
trials using foliar applied aqueous IBA solutions as related
to juvenile and mature cuttings.
Included in this book: Dr. Davies' landmark study details
solution rates as related to the rooting of the cuttings
physiology. (Article after the numbered pages.)
19
The Spray Drip Down™ Method
Using the Spray Drip Down Method, stick the cuttings into trays or
any other way into media. Spray
the Rooting Solution onto the
leaves of the cuttings until there is
a drip down. Wait about 3/4 hour
or until the solution dries on the
leaves, then turn on misters
The Spray Drip Down Method can
be used on any lot size. The
solution is used one time. There
can be no cross contamination of
the Rooting Solution between plant
lots.
The Spray Drip Down Method has low labor cost. Workers who
do sticking do not apply rooting products and do not need PPE.
Spraying, performed by a trained operator, assures that the plant
cuttings receive a uniform application of the Rooting Solutions.
The time for spraying is only a few minutes.
EQUIPMENT
Use spray equipment appropriate for the
growing facility, for example, backpack,
power sprayers, or even robots. Other
equipment is shown elsewhere in this book.
Proportional solution mixers may not give
uniform solution quality.
Typical backpack sprayer
suitable for application
ROOTING PRODUCTS USED
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts.
• Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
20
HOW TO USE THE SPRAY DRIP DOWN METHOD
STICKING & SEPARATION OF LOTS BY RATE
Stick the un-treated cuttings in the media.
Keep the cuttings hydrated by keeping misters on.
It is useful to separate the plants into rooting solution rate
groups. Plants with the same solution rate can be treated at
the same time.
ROOTING SOLUTION
• For foliar methods, only use Rooting Solutions made with
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets. The aqueous solutions are specially
formulated to allow entry into the plant's vascular system.
TREATMENT
Spraying should be done the same day of sticking or soon
after.
Spraying should be done when the stomata in the leaves are
open. If the propagation area is hot, do spraying at cool times,
such as early mornings.
Turn off the misters.
• Spray the Rooting Solution onto leaves until the liquid
drips down. If the leaves are wet from misters at the time
of spraying, use an excess of Rooting Solution to
overcome dilution of the solution.
To assure adequate treatment, apply enough solution to both
the top and bottom of the leaves.
SPRAY RATE
Use about one gallon of rooting solution per 175 to 225
square foot of cuttings.
MISTERS
• After application of the Rooting Solution wait at until the
solution dries, about 3/4 hour, before turning misters on.
UN-USED ROOTING SOLUTIONS
• See pages 16-17 for notes
21
<'lij
LセBエ@
Rotate Bar to go over Benches (all directions)
.
Calibrated Spray Heady
1
-c- '
セ@
· " 1 ,;
Control Switch
Pump
Custom Built Cart Used to Apply Rooting
Solutions by the Spray Drip Down Method
Sprayer used by Bailey Nurseries.
Photo: Bailey Nurseries
22
The Total Immerse Method
Using the Total Immerse Method, total
immerse dip the cuttings in the Rooting
Solution for a few second then drain. Stick
at any time.
The Total Immerse Method can be used
for large homogeneous lots of plants or
small lots. There can be drag in of
biologicals from the cuttings into the
solution. The Rooting Solution should be
changed frequently to avoid lot cross contamination. Total
Immerse is useful for large leaf cuttings and cuttings whose leaves
have stomata on the bottom of the leaf where spray drip down is
difficult to use.
The Total Immerse Method uses simple equipment for treatment,
a tank and a basket. Uniform treatment is done on large batches
of cuttings is done in a few seconds. Since all cuttings are
submerged in the Rooting Solution every cutting is treated. After
treatment the cuttings can be stored in a plastic bag and stuck
later.
EQUIPMENT
Use a solution tank. A dipping
basket is useful.
Hedera (Ivy) Holland. Total immerse tank for ivy.
Dip basket not shown. Photo: Rhizopon
ROOTING PRODUCTS USED
To make Rooting Solutions:
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble
Salts.
• Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets
HOW TO USE THE TOTAL IMMERSE METHOD
Total Immerse the cuttings, using a basket, into the Rooting
Solution for a few seconds. Drain.
Stick the treated cuttings in the media, or put in plastic bags
and store until sticking or planting out..
Turn on misters as required.
After treatment discard used Rooting Solution.
23
Overview of Basal Methods
The Basal Quick Dip, Basal Long Soak and Basal Dry Dip
Methods are used on
• leafy cuttings in the growing season or dormant
• leafless cuttings
• dormant cuttings
Basal methods can be used all year.
Rooting Solutions or rooting hormone powders are applied to
the basal end of cuttings.
ROOTING PRODUCTS USED
Dry Dip Rooting Hormones
• Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3.
To make Rooting Solutions:
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts.
• Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets.
MODE OF ACTION
Rooting Solutions or dry powder rooting hormones are applied to
the basal end of the cuttings. The rooting hormones absorbed
into the plant's vascular system where they are stored; they are
slow released by the plant to induce root formation.
METHODS
BASAL QUICK DIP
METHOD
BASAL LONG SOAK
METHOD
DRY DIP METHOD
PRODUCTS TO USE
Use Rooting Solutions made with
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
Use Rhizopon AA #1, #2, or #3 Dry
Dip Rooting Hormones
The selection of a method, either Dry Dip or by Rooting
Solution, usually depends upon the plant variety. Many
plants have successful rooting with Dry Dip methods
and/or Rooting Solution methods.
24
The Quick Dip Method
Using the Basal Quick Dip Method, propagate
plants from cuttings from easy to difficult to
root. Dip the basal end of the cuttings into the
Rooting Solution for about five seconds then
stick.
USE ON MANY TYPES OF PLANT CUTTINGS
In the Growing
Season
Leafy cuttings: Tropical plants. Annual and
perennial plants. Woody ornamental plants.
Forestry plants.
All Year
Leafy and leafless cuttings: Tropical plants.
Annual and perennial plants. Woody
ornamental plants. Forestry plants.
Winter Dormant Leafless cuttings: Woody ornamental plants.
Forestry plants.
Cuttings
All Year
Leafy & leafless cuttings: Hard-to-root
cuttings.
EQUIPMENT
Dispense Rooting Solutions into small cups.
ROOTING PRODUCTS USED
To make Rooting Solutions:
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts.
• Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
HOW TO USE THE BASAL QUICK DIP METHOD
Wound woody cuttings by making a 3/4 inch slit at the side of
the basal end is optional. Herbaceous cuttings are not
wounded .
• Immerse the basal end of the cuttings about 3/4-1 inch into
the Rooting Solution for about five seconds.
• Stick the treated cuttings in the media, or put in plastic bags
and store until sticking or planting out.
Turn on misters as required.
After treatment discard the used Rooting Solution.
25
The Basal Long Soak Method
Using the Basal Long Soak Method,
propagate plants from cuttings that are
difficult to root. It is also used on easier to root
cuttings. Both hard to woody plant cuttings
and herbaceous cuttings benefit. Low Rooting
Solution rates are used. Basal Long Soak
eliminates high rates by the Quick Dip Method
rates or Dry Dip rooting powders.
In the growing
season
Leafy cuttings: annuals, perennials,
ornamental and forestry plants.
All year
Ornamental and forestry plants.
Winter dormant
cuttings
Ornamental and forestry plants.
EQUIPMENT
Use a tank.
ROOTING PRODUCTS USED
Dutch nursery. Stem rose
propagation using
the basal long soak method. Photo:
Rhizopon
To make Rooting Solutions:
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts.
• Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets.
HOW TO USE THE BASAL LONG SOAK METHOD
Wounding of woody cuttings is optional. Herbaceous cuttings
are not wounded.
Bundle cuttings so they are erect in the tank.
Immerse the basal end of the cuttings about 3/4-1 inch into
the Rooting Solution. (See pages 26-27 for photos)
Soak about 12-48 hours.
Stick the treated cuttings in the media, or put in plastic bags
and store until sticking or planting out.
Turn on misters as required.
After treatment discard the used Rooting Solution.
26
USE THE BASAL LONG SOAK METHOD TO IMPROVE
ROOTING OF HARD-TO-ROOT CUTTINGS
When propagating plants from cuttings, if roots do not form,
some growers unsuccessfully apply plant rooting hormones at
high concentrations. They may use rates above 5000 ppm IBA
and perhaps get variable results. If alcohol based Rooting
Solutions are used they will cause burns and plant mortality.
SOLUTION
Use the basal long soak method to replace other high
concentration methods.
High plant rooting hormone concentrations may inhibit root
formation. For difficult to root cuttings, the Basal Long Soak
Method can successfully replace the Basal Quick Dip or Dry Dip
Methods. The Basal Long Soak Method uses very low
concentrations of Rooting Solution.
MODE OF ACTION
Using the Basal Long Soak
Method, cuttings slowly absorb
the Rooting Solution. The plant
stores the plant rooting
hormones at the basal end
where it slow releases them for
root formation.
TIMING
The Basal Long Soak Method is
used all year on all types of
Bundle cuttings, then immerse
cuttings.
Used in the fall,
basal end 3/4-1 inch into the
Rooting Solution for 12-48 hours, cuttings can be kept in cold
storage and planted out in the
then plant or store.
spring. They can also be
treated before planting
The Basal Long Soak Method is as important as ever!
Developed in the 1940's, the Basal Long Soak Method
is successful for growers to propagate HARD TO
ROOT CUTTINGS, as well as root stocks like grape,
rose, and prnnus.
27
The Dry Dip Method
Using the Dry Dip Method, propagate
plants from cuttings from easy to difficult to
root. Rhizopon AA #1 , #2 and #3 rooting
powders are used. When treating cuttings
with different rate needs, simply switch
powders.
As a VISUAL indicator, color coding
assures that the proper product is used.
USE ON MANY TYPES OF PLANT CUTTINGS
In the growing
season.
Leafy cuttings:
annuals, perennials, woody
ornamental and forestry plants.
All year.
Tropical plants annuals,
perennials, woody ornamental and
forestry plants.
Winter dormant
cuttings.
Woody ornamental and forestry
plants.
All year.
Hard to root cuttings.
EQUIPMENT
Rooting powers are taken from the stock container and put into
small cups. It is handy to keep three containers available for each
of the three color coded concentrations.
ROOTING PRODUCTS USED
Dry Dip Rooting Hormones (color coded):
• Rhizopon AA #1 (0.1 % IBA) is PINK color
for easier to root cuttings
• Rhizopon AA #2 (0.3% IBA) is GREEN color
for root many types of cuttings
• Rhizopon AA #3 (0.8% IBA) is WHITE color
for more difficult to root cuttings
28
HOW TO USE THE DRY DIP METHOD
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Take off a small portion of the powder for immediate use. Do
not contaminate the stock container by returning used portion
to the container.
Take plant cuttings, usually 4-6 inch stem cuttings, from the
current year's growth.
Wound woody cuttings by making a 3/4 inch slit at the side of
the basal end is optional. Herbaceous cuttings are not
wounded.
Dip the basal end of the cuttings 3/4-1 inch into the Rhizopon
AA powder. Tap off the excess powder.
Avoid contact between the powder and foliage and other over
ground parts of the stem. A small amount of powder on the
leaves will not affect the quality of the rooting.
Stick the treated cuttings in the media, or put in plastic bags
and store until sticking or planting out. A dribble hole is useful
to allow entry of the cutting into the media without pushing off
the rooting powder.
Turn on misters as required.
After treatment discard used rooting powder.
29
Foliar Method Trial Rates
•
Total Immerse Method
•
Spray Drip Down™ Method
A wide solution trial rate range is indicated for the Total Immerse
and Spray Drip Down Methods. Ideal rates will vary according to
specific plant variety, season, quality of the cuttings, and local
growing conditions. Prior to large scale production, test a few
plants at several rates within the range. If foliar application
causes phytotoxicity, try basal applications and/or decrease
rates. Use the lowest rate to produce the desired effect.
TYPICAL SPRAY DRIP DOWN METHOD™
SOLUTION USE: 175-225 sq. ft./gallon
Trial rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (see pages 14-15 for
conversion charts)
Hortus IBA
Water Soluble
Salts (ppm IBA)
CUTTING TYPES
Annuals, perennials, chrysanthemum
II
50-250
Herbaceous and hard to root perennial
plant cuttings
250-1500
Woody ornamental cuttings
300-1500
Plant cuttings vary in quality.
Trial rates shown are from
specific lots under the grower's
particular faculty and
environmental controls. Growing
facility and plant lots are
different; always necessary to
perform trials for plants in the
specific facility.
30
I
Trial Rates:
Trial rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (see pages 14-15 for
conversion charts)
Woody Ornamental Plants Propagated by
Spray Drip Down™ or Total Immerse Methods
Acer
1000-1500
Coton easter
500-750
Diervilla, paniculata
500-750
Hydrangea
500-750
Juniperus, horizontal is 1000-1500
Physocarpus,opul ifol ius
1000-1500
Rosa, varieties
Rh us
Spirea, Japonica
Syring a
Thuja
Viburnum
Weigela
1000-1500
500-750
500-750
500-750
1500-2000
1000-1500
1000-1500
Trial Rates: Annual Plants Propagated by
Spray Drip Down™ or Total Immerse Methods
Pelargonium geranium
sp. like "Balcon"
zonale
peltatum
Impatient New Guinea
Fuchsia
Petunia sp.
some colors
Osteospermum
Verbena
Poinsettia
50-100
200-300
300-400
15-50
15-50
31
150-200
200-300
150-200
200-300
25-100
Trial Rates: Perennial Plants Propagated by
Spray Drip Down™ or Total Immerse Methods
Trial rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (see pages 14-15 for
conversion charts)
Abutilon
750
Achillea
up to 1000
Actinidia Arctic Beauty
1000
Ajuga
up to 1000
Amsonia
1500
Anisodontea Tara's Pink
750
Antennaria
up to 750
Anthem is
1000
Arabis Variegata 500
Arctostaphylos
500
Armeria
1000
Artemisia
up to 500
Baptisia
3500
Basil Kasar
500
Buddleia
1000
Calamintha Var.
500
Callicarpa
500
Campanula 500-1000
Caryopteris
1000
Ceanothus
500
Ceratostigma
1500
Chrysanthemum
500-1000
Chrysogonum
750
Cistus
750
Clematis
1000
Clethra
1000
Coleonema
750
Convolvulus
750
Coreopsis
500-1000
Correa
500
Cosmos
1000
Cotoneaster
Coral Beauty
500
Delosperma
1000
Erigeron
750-1000
Erodium
Dark Eyes
750
Erysimum
750
Escallonia Comp 500
Eupatorium
500
Euphorbia
1000
Gaillardia
500
Gali um
SweetWoodruff 1500
Geranium
1000
Geum Rivale
1000
Gypsophila Viette'sDwrf
1000
Hedera
1000
Helenium
500
Helianthemum
2000
Helianthus
1000
Helichrysum 500-1000
Heliopsis
1000
Hypericum
1000
Hyssop PinkDel.
500
lberis
1000
ltea Little Henry 1000
Kerria
1000
Lamiastrum
Herman Pride
1000
Lamium
up to 1000
Lavandula
1000
Leptospermum
500
Linaria
500
Lithodora
2000
Lonicera
1000
Lychnis
1000
Marjoram
Compactum
500
Melissa
up to 500
Mentha
500
Nepeta
500
Oenanthe
500
32
Origanum
500-750
Paxistima
1000
Penstemon
500
Persicaria up to 1000
Phlox
1000
Phygelius
750
Poinsettia
500-1000
Polemonium
Bressingham purple
1000
Prunella Loveli.
750
Rosmarin us
500
Rudbeckia
750
Ruellia
1000
500-1000
Salvia
Santolina
500
Saponaria
1000
Saxifraga
750
Scabiosa
1000
Silene
500
Solly Boddy'sCh. 750
Spilanthes
500
Spiraea
1000
Spiraea Gold Flame,
Magic Carpet, Neon
Flash
4000
Stachys
1000
Stevia
rebaudiana
500
Teucrium
1000
Verbascum
1000
Verbena
750
Vinca
1000
Viola
1500
Vitex
1000
Waldsteinia
1000
Weigela
1000
Westringia
750
Trial Rates for Basal Quick Dip Method
Make Rooting Solutions using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets. Use the trial rate
charts as a starting point.
Use on cuttings in the growing season and winter dormant
cuttings.
• Immerse basal end of cuttings approximately 1" in Rooting
Solution a few seconds.
• Stick immediately or store.
Trial rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (see pages 14-15 for
conversion charts)
CUTTING TYPES
Annuals, soft perennial, tender cuttings
from ornamental plants, tropical house
plants
Hortus IBA
Water Soluble
Salts (ppm IBA)
50-200
Herbaceous, perennials, pot rose
cuttings
150-1500
Difficult to root herbaceous, perennials,
tropical house plant cuttings
500-1500
Softwood cuttings
500-1500
Hardwood cuttings
500-2000
Difficult to root hardwood cuttings
SEE THE NOTE BELOW
2000-10,000
Some cuttings are hard-to-root. This may be caused by the
condition of the cuttings, the maturity of the cuttings, or the timing
when cuttings are taken. Some growers 'think' the answer is to
use a high rooting hormones rate. They usually get in-consistent
rooting or no roots at all.
A better answer is to use the Basal Long Soak Method. Even
though low rates are used, the cuttings have more Rooting
Hormone stored at the basal end so that rooting is successful.
33
Trial Rates for Basal Long Soak Method
Make Rooting Solutions using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets. Use the trial rate charts as a
starting point.
Use on cuttings in the growing season and winter dormant cuttings.
Immerse basal end of cuttings approximately 1" in Rooting Solution for 12
to 48 hours.
Stick immediately or store.
Trial rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (see pages 14-15 for
conversion charts)
Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts
(ppm IBA)
CUTTING TYPES
Hard to root annuals and perennials
25-100
Herbaceous cuttings
50-200
Woody ornamental cuttings, grape, roses
50-400
Typical annual, perennial and other herbaceous plants
Aeonium
Araucaria
(Norfolk Island pine)
Aster
Azalea
Cryptomeria (J. cedar)
Cupressus (cypress)
Dahlia
Delphinium
Dracaena
Dipladenia
Gypsophila (baby's breath)
Hedera (ivy)
Heliotropism
Hydrangea
Phaseolus
Pittosporum
Rosa (rose)
Trachelium (throatwort)
Typical hardwood and softwood, difficult to root cuttings
Apple (malus) rootstock
Aralia
Barberry
Callicarpa
Calocedrus
Carpinus (hornbeam)
Cephalotaxus (J. plum yew)
Centaurea (knapweed)
Chaenomeles
(J. flowering quince)
Citrus
Corylus (hazel)
Cryptomeria (J. cedar)
Cupressocyparis
(Leyland Cypress)
Cytisus (broom)
Derris (rubber)
Elaeagnus
Ficus (fig)
Forsythia
Halesia (silverbell)
Holodiscus
Juniper
Metasequoia (sequoia)
Nerium (oleander)
Olive
Philadelphus (mock orange)
Physocarpus (ninebark)
Picea (spruce)
Populus (poplar)
Potentilla (cinefoil)
Prunus (peach rootstocks)
Pseudosuga (Douglas fir)
Rhododendron
34
Ribes (currant)
Robinia (false aralia)
Salix (willow)
Redwood, coastal
Taxus (yew)
Thea (tea)
Theobroma (cacao)
Thuja
Thujopsis
Torreya
Tsuga (hemlock)
Ulmus (elm)
Viburnum
Vitis (grape)
Weigela
Wisteria
Trial Rates for Dry Dip Method
[]Zセ@
Rhizopon® AA #1
Active ingredient 0.1 % IBA
Pink Color Powder
Use on easy to root cuttings.
Rhizopon® AA #2
Active ingredient 0.3% IBA
Green Color Powder
An intermediate all purpose product.
Use on easy to more difficult to root
cuttings
Rhizopon® AA #3
Active ingredient 0.8% IBA
White Color Powder
Use on more difficult to root cuttings
Rhizopon AA #1 , #2 and #3 Dry Dip Rooting Hormones are not
used to make Rooting Solutions.
SELECT THE RHIZOPON AA ROOTING POWDER FOR MANY
TYPES OF PLANT CUTTINGS
SEASON
In the
growing
season
CUTTING TYPE
Rhizopon AA
Dry Powder
Leafy cuttings: annuals
#1 or #2
Leafy cuttings: perennials
#1,#2,or#3
Leafy cuttings: woody
ornamental and forestry
#2 or #3
Tropical plants
#1 or #2
Annuals
#1 or #2
Perennials
#1,#2,or#3
Woody ornamental and
forestry plants
#2 or #3
Winter
dormant
cuttings
Woody ornamental and
forestry plants
#2 or #3
All year
Hard to root cuttings
#2 or #3
All year
35
Trial Rates for plants propagated by the Dry
Dip Method using Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3
After the plant name is the product number for Rhizopon AA
#1, #2 and #3 Dry Dip rooting hormones.
Various rates may be used for species dependent upon the
variety, time of the year, condition of the stock plants, facility,
environmental factors, and other variables.
Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3 Dry Dip Rooting Hormones are
not used to make Rooting Solutions.
Abelia
Acanthopanax
African Violet
Ageratum
Andromeda
Apple, Malus #2
Arborvitae
#2
Arbutus
Ardisia
Azalea var
#1, #2
Barberry
Bayberry
Beauty Bush
Beauty Berry
Beech
Begonia
Birch
Bittersweet
Blackberry
Bluebeard
Blueberry
#1
Bougainvillea
Boxwood
Broom
#1
Butterfly Bush
Camellia
Candytuft
Carnation
Catalpa
Chaste Tree
Chestnut
#1
#3
#1
#1
#1
or #3
or #3
#3
#2
or #3
#1
#1
#3
#1
#2
#1
#3
#3
#1
#1
or #2
#3
#3
or #2
#1
#3
#1
#3
#3
#3
#3
Chokeberry #2 or #3
Chrysanthemum
#2
#2
Cinquefoil
Clematis
#2 or #3
Clerodendron
#1
Clockvine
#1
#1
Coleus
Coton easter
#3
Crab Apple #2 or #3
Cape Myrtle
#1
Crassula
#1
Creeper
#1
Croton
#1
Cryptomeria
#3
Currant
#1
Dahlia
#2
Daphne
#1 or #2
#1
Deutzia
Dew Berry
#1
Dogwood
#3
Douglas Fir
#3
Dove Tree
#1
Dracaena
#1
Dutchman's Pipe #1
Elder
#1 or #2
#2
Escallonia
False Arborvitae
#2
Firethorne
#1 or #2
Flowering Cherry #1
Flowering Quince #3
Fontanesia
#1
Forsythia
#1
36
Franklinia
Fringe Tree
Fuchsia
Gardenia #1, #2
Geranium
Germander #2
Ginkgo
Golden Chain
Grape
Hawthorn
Hazelnut
#1
Heath
Heather
Hemlock
#2
Hibiscus
#2
Holly, Japanese
Holly, American
Honeysuckle
Hydrangea
Jetbead
Juniper var. #2
Kerria
Knotwood
Laburnocytisus
#1
Lantana
Laurel
Lavender
Leucothoe
Lilac
Lily Scales #1
Linden
#2
#2
#1
or #3
#1
or #3
#2
#2
#3
#3
or #2
#3
#3
or #3
or #3
#2
#3
#2
#2
#1
or #3
#1
#3
or #2
#1
#3
#2
#2
#3
or #2
#1
Locust
#3
Magnolia
#2 or #3
Manzanita
#3
Maple, Japanese #3
Matrimony Vine
#3
Melastoma
#1
Mock Orange
#1
Mulberry
#1
Ninebark
#3
Norway Spruce
#1
Oak
#3
Oleander
#2
Olive
#3
Orange, sour
#3
Orix a
#1
Osage Orange
#1
Osmanthus
#2
Pachysandra #2 or #3
#1
Pea Shrub
Pear rootstocks
#3
Pecan
#3
Penstemon
#1
Periwinkle
#2
Petunia
#2 or #3
#1
Philodendron
Phlox
#1
Photinia
#3
Pine var.
#2 or #3
Poinsettia
#1
Poplar
#1
Prickly Pear Cactus#1
Privet
#3
#1
Raspberry
Reti nospora
#3
Rhododendron var.#3
Rose
#1, #2 or #3
Russian Olive
#3
#1
Sage
Sequoia
#2
#1
Snapdragon
Snow Berry
#1
Sourwood
#3
#1
Speedwell
37
Spiraea
Spring scent
Spruce var.
St. Johnswort
Stevia
Stewartia
Sweet Leaf
Trumpet Creeper
Tulip Tree
Umbrella Pine
Verbena
Viburnum
Waxmyrtle
Weigela
Willow
Wintergreen
Wisteria
Witch Hazel
Yellow Wood
Yew var.
Zelkova
#1
#2
#2
#1
#1
#1
#1
#1
#3
#3
#1
#1
#1
#1
#1
#2
#2
#2
#2
#3
#2
Trial Rates using Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets
To make Rooting Solutions using Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets simply count the tablets and mix in water.
• Mix into ordinary water.
• Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets are useful when a scale
is not available to measure, and to mix small amounts of
Rooting Solution.
• Use the Rooting Solutions by the foliar and basal methods
shown in this book.
TRIAL RATES using Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets.
(To use Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts see pages 14-15 for conversion
charts)
Spray Drip Down & Total Immerse Methods
Tablets/liter
Annual, perennial, chrysanthemum cuttings
1-5
Herbaceous and hard to root perennial plant
cuttings
5-30
Woody ornamental cuttings
6-30
Basal Quick Dip Method
Annuals, soft perennial, tender cuttings from
ornamental plants, tropical house plants
Herbaceous, perennials, pot rose cuttings
Difficult to root herbaceous, perennials,
tropical house plant cuttings
Tablets/liter
1-4
3-20
10-30
Softwood cuttings
5-20
Hardwood cuttings
10-30
Difficult to root hardwood cuttings
30
(or use Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts at higher rates)
Basal Long Soak Method
Annual and perennial cuttings
Tablets/liter
1/2-2
Herbaceous cuttings
1-4
Woody ornamental cuttings, grape, roses
1-6
38
Selecting the Cuttings
Ivy stock plants in Holland
SELECT THE BEST POSSIBLE
STOCK PLANTS
The best stock plants produce the
best cuttings used for propagation.
During each growing cycle, growers
must select plants that exhibit the
best growth characteristics; these
are selected as 'stock plants'. 'Offshore' cuttings are from selected
and maintained stock plants. The
same selection process can be done
at one's own growing facility.
JUVENILE CUTTINGS
Cuttings taken from the newer juvenile parts of many plants root
better than older mature parts. Shoots at the tops of the plant are
physiologically older (more mature) than the shoots at the bottom
of the plant (more juvenile). The top shoots have the
characteristics of the more mature parts of the plant from which
they originate. Juvenile cuttings require lower plant rooting
hormone rates compared to the 'older' cuttings.
To maintain juvenality, annual and perennial cuttings should be
taken from young stock plants. These stock plants, often a half
year old, are used to produce the next generation stock plants
from current cuttings. For woody plants 'hedging' can be done.
THE 'BEST' TIME TO TAKE CUTTINGS
Some plants, especially those which go dormant, have different
rooting ability at different times of the year. Timing of a few
weeks in taking of cuttings may have success or failure. After
maturing to a certain age, often years, cuttings taken from certain
plants may not be able to produce roots.
TYPICAL TIMING TO TAKE CUTTINGS
• Herbaceous cuttings from greenhouse crops, annual and
tropical plants: anytime.
• Deciduous and evergreen plant cuttings: early summer
through early fall.
• Dormant hardwood cuttings: fall or winter.
39
PREPARATION AND CARE OF CUTTINGS
Before taking cuttings, stock plants must be provided with good
light and fertilization. This will boost stored carbohydrates used to
feed the newly formed roots.
• Herbaceous plant cuttings should be treated and stuck soon
after being taken. To prevent heat damage, in hot climates
cuttings are put in coolers soon after being cut. Perennial and
annual cutting suppliers may have offshore stock plant
nurseries. When shipped, cuttings from these nurseries are
kept chilled during transit using special cartons that protect
the cuttings from temperature variation. The cuttings are
packed in plastic bags to assure continued hydration.
Shipping time is kept short, assuring prompt arrival at the
rooting facility. Certain plants do not ship well; to assure
propagation success, those stock plants should be grown
near the rooting faculty.
• Winter woody cuttings taken in the fall can be treated with
rooting hormones, kept in plastic, stored in cold storage, then
planted-out in the spring.
• Growers usually take plant shoot cuttings from plant growth of
the current growing season. Generally, thin cuttings will root
more easily than thick cuttings. No one cutting type is useful
to propagate all plants.
TYPES OF CUTTINGS
STEM CUTTINGS
'Stem cuttings' are the out-growing stems, mature sprouts or
tip cuttings. Growers may take many types of stem cuttings.
•
SOFTWOOD & HERBACEOUS CUTTINGS: these are
the fast growing soft tips of stems, usually taken in the
spring. Herbaceous cuttings, sometimes called 'tip
cuttings' or 'shoot cuttings', are taken from the young soft
tips of stems.
Softwood and Herbaceous cuttings have many variations.
Cuttings taken from annuals, herbaceous perennials,
tropical plants and house plants are easier to propagate
from cuttings than more hardened cuttings.
40
•
HARDWOOD CUTTINGS: these are taken from the fully
mature stems of deciduous shrubs and trees. Stock plants
for these cuttings require careful selection and preparation
before growers take the cuttings. Pruning of the stock
plants allow them to produce new growth early in the
growing season. The new growth can produce roots.
Growers take these cuttings at the end of the growing
season or during the dormant season.
GREENWOOD CUTTINGS: these are the soft tips or
stems after the spring growth has slowed. The stem is
harder and woodier than the soft wood cutting.
SEMI-RIPE CUTTINGS: these are taken during the late
summer after the annual growth has slowed. The stem is
harder than softwood or green wood cuttings.
SCION CUTTINGS
'Scion cuttings' are dormant 'ligneous' woody twigs.
EYE CUTTINGS
'Eye cuttings' are pieces of foliated or defoliated stalks with
one or more eyes.
ROOT CUTTINGS
'Root cuttings' are parts of the root, usually annual. Growers
take these from certain plants which have the capacity to
regenerate stems from root parts.
LEAF CUTTINGS
'Leaf cuttings' are parts of the leaf. New roots develop at the
base or veins of the cutting . Dry powder rooting hormones are
usually used to treat these cuttings.
CUTTING NODES and DO NOT CUT LEAF TIPS
See the section in this book (article after
numbered pages):
"Propagate Plants from Cuttings Using Foliar
Applied Aqueous IBA Rooting Solutions. Tips:
Do's and Don'ts",
Topic: "The Cuttings"
41
Handling Un-rooted Cuttings
•
•
After taking cuttings, stick as soon as possible.
USE PLANT ROOTING HORMONES.
Do inspection.
Reduce wilting during rooting.
Maintain the appropriate environmental controls.
Practice good sanitation.
HANDLING OFF-SHORE UN-ROOTED CUTTINGS
After receiving cuttings from off-shore sources, open all boxes
immediately. Inspect the un-rooted cuttings for damage,
dehydration, heat or freeze damage, breakage or rot. Report any
missing items or damaged cuttings to the vendor. Do not allow
the boxes to remain in sunny or hot places, or below freezing
temperatures. Growers should stick the un-rooted cuttings into
pre-moistened, well drained, soil-less media with 5.5- 6.5 pH. If it
not possible to stick the un-rooted cuttings immediately they can
be held for several days in a cooler between 35-45°F. The
cuttings will deteriorate rapidly at warm temperatures.
WOUNDING
Hardwood cuttings may root better if a 1/2 to 3/4 inch long
notch, "wound," is made at the basal end before applying the
plant rooting hormone.
Tropical and other herbaceous cuttings are not 'wounded'.
MEDIA
Stick cuttings as soon as possible after either taking cuttings or
receiving off-shore cuttings. Use pre-moistened, well drained,
soil-less media with 5.5- 6.5 pH. 'Airy' media allows oxygen to
stimulate root growth. (See page 45 for notes.)
STICKING DEPTH
Stick the cuttings just deep enough that the medium anchors
them. Thin cutting may be stuck 1/4-1/2 inch deep.
TRAY SIZE AND DIRECT STICKING
Tray sizes range from 36 to 128 cell. Larger cells are used for
cuttings scheduled to remain in the starting tray longer. Un-rooted
cuttings can also direct stick in the finishing container or
sometimes beds.
42
Rooting Solutions, Rooting Powders and
Methods
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts & Rhizopon AA rooting hormones
are applied to cuttings from 'easy-to-root' to 'difficult-to-root'.
Treated cuttings quickly form new uniform roots, strong root mass
and homogenous propagation crops.
SOLUTION METHODS & CUTTING TYPES
Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts
(ppm IBA)
TOTAL IMMERSE & SPRAY DRIP DOWN
METHODS
Annual, perennials, chrysanthemum
Herbaceous and hard to root perennial plant cuttings
Woody ornamental cuttings
Trial rates
BASAL QUICK DIP METHOD
Annuals, soft perennial, tender cuttings from ornamental plants,
tropical house plants
Herbaceous, perennials, pot rose cuttings
Difficult to root herbaceous, perennials, tropical house plants
Softwood cuttings
Hardwood cuttings
Difficult to root hardwood cuttings
Trial rates
50-200
BASAL LONG SOAK METHOD
Hard to root annuals and perennials
Herbaceous cuttings
Woody ornamental cuttings, grape, roses
Trial rates
25-100
50-200
50-400
DRY DIP METHOD & CUTTING TYPES
In the Growing Season
Leafy cuttings: annuals
Leafy cuttings: perennials
Leafy cuttings: woody ornamental and forestry
All Year
Tropical plants
Annuals
Perennials
Woody ornamental and forestry plants, hard to root cuttings
Winter dormant cuttings
43
50-250
250-1500
300-1500
150-1500
500-1500
500-1500
500-2000
2000-10,000
Rhizopon AA
#1,#2,#3
Trial rates
#1 or#2
#1 , #2,or#3
#2 or#3
#1 or#2
#1 or#2
#1,#2,or#3
#2 or#3
#2 or#3
Control of the Growing Area
Raising selected stock plants under controlled conditions is
important. When growers give their stock plants proper care, the
plants will produce the best cuttings. 'Just taking' cuttings from
random 'field plants' leads to marginal results. The same way,
control of the propagation house is equally important to the
propagation of new plants.
Before production, always perform trials on selected
plants, within the same facility.
Inspection of cuttings
INSPECTION
Growers must inspect their crops regularly
to observe both intended and undesired
results. Records should be kept that
include information of the methods,
materials, and plants used, and the
quality of stock plants and cuttings.
ROOTED CUTTING CARE
Early stage treatment of the cutting crop is essential to produce
high quality finished plants. Do not allow the rooted cuttings to
become over-rooted, dried-out, crowded or under-fertilized .
These situations may reduce plant growth.
PROVIDING THE BEST POSSIBLE CONDITIONS FOR
ROOTING
Cuttings given less than optimal rooting conditions will waste
energy. The result will be inferior root systems. To produce its
own store of carbohydrates a plant needs the raw materials of
light, water, carbon dioxide and oxygen .
LIGHT
Growers should regulate the propagation house so that the
cuttings are not under direct sunlight. The effect of direct sunlight
and the resultant heat will cause stress to the cuttings. Light is
necessary for photosynthesis. Un-rooted cuttings are not able to
engage in much photosynthesis; a small amount of light, 100-125
um PAR light, during the rooting process is sufficient. It is
important at this stage is to provide a long period of light. A
44
photo-period of 16-18 hours is adequate. Artificial lights are
useful to extend natural daylight hours. Natural lighting or artificial
lights may cause a rise in ambient temperature. Growers must
control the growing area to avoid high temperatures from light
sources.
WATER CONTENT OF THE MEDIA
A plant must have a good root system in order for it to absorb
water. Water is crucial while the cuttings begin to form roots. If
the substrate that is too dry, the plant will have cell death. Dead
cells increase the risk of rot. A very dry substrate encourages
callus formation. Although many believe that callus is beneficial
for root formation, this is not true. The callus hinders and slows
root formation. Growers measure how much moisture in the soil
with a tensiometer. For best rooting, the meter should display a
reading between moist and wet. Another way is to weigh the trays
regularly. By trial, the growers determine if the trays have the
proper weight for the "the proper moisture level," then provide
water based on these observations.
CARBON DIOXIDE (C0 2 ) IN AIR & OXYGEN IN MEDIA
Photosynthesis is important for
cuttings. Photosynthesis requires
sufficient carbon dioxide (C0 2 ),
light, and water. An advantage of
an increased level of C0 2 in the
air is that it reduces the
transpiration, loss of water,
through the plant. Cuttings in an
environment with sufficient light
and an increased C0 2 level (8001000 ppm) will form better roots.
C0 2 can be controlled using
Environmentally controlled
chrysanthemum propagation
special generators. Oxygen is
house in Holland
necessary for cell division and
crucial for root formation. Growers
must stick the cuttings into a substrate that has a structure which
is sufficiently open to allow air, containing oxygen, to reach the
developing roots. Dense media inhibits oxygen stimulation.
45
AIR CIRCULATION & TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Good air circulation is necessary when rooting un-rooted cuttings.
Shade to approximately 50% light conditions, or as required, to
reduce temperature during high heat periods.
TEMPERATURE
Soil Temperature
Soil temperature has a direct influence on the speed of rooting.
A soil temperature ranging between 68-77°F is ideal during the
initial rooting stage. After this initial stage, growers can allow
the temperature to drop a few degrees.
Air Temperature
To prevent excess transpiration, controlling the temperature is
important. To reduce aerial growth, air temperature should be a
bit lower than soil temperature. The cuttings should be
encouraged to use their energy mainly for developing roots.
Above ground growth will come later.
Light and Temperature Relationship
During the winter, when there is a low level of natural light, with
no artificial lights, use a lower temperature. For example,
cuttings will die if kept at temperatures near 74 °F, short day and
low light levels. Rooting activity in the soil will outpace its ability
to do photosynthesis induced by the light.
FERTILIZATION
Follow fertilizer label instructions. Growers should fertilize unrooted cuttings during propagation. Apply a complete N-P-K
fertilizer. For many plants, use a fertilizer containing 300 ppm of
nitrogen approximately two to three times a week. Start on the
third day after sticking or when the callus is starting to form.
Quality can suffer if the roots become rootbound. Fertilize the
cuttings when planting. Apply liquid fertilizer solutions at a rate of
300 to 400 ppm immediately after planting.
INSECT AND DISEASE CONTROL
Good cultural practices and clean, well-ventilated growing space
are your best defense against disease. Botrytis, the chief fungal
threat, thrives in a moist, stagnant environment. Good air
circulation and adequate light will reduce its harmful effects.
Apply appropriate fungicides, insecticides, and other control
products following label instructions.
46
Humidity
Un-rooted cuttings must receive the highest
amount of humidity. Temperature
influences the ambient humidity. When the
first roots appear, the humidity can be
lowered; the rooted cuttings can adapt to
the surroundings better.
MISTING GUIDELINES
Apply mist immediately and frequently to
maintain turgidity and minimize wilting while
roots develop. Extended days of high
humidity may cause some plant cuttings to
form aerial roots.
Typical mist cycle for fast to root annual and perennial cuttings
1-3 DAYS
AFTER
STICKING
• Mist during daylight hours in all stages and the
night for the first 3-4 days helps keep the
cuttings turgid for optimum rooting.
• Mist 10 seconds every 5-10 minutes.
4-7 DAYS
AFTER
STICKING
• Callus is being formed.
• Mist 10 seconds every 20 minutes.
8-15 DAYS
AFTER
STICKING
• Roots are being formed.
• Mist 10 seconds every 30 minutes.
• Depending upon the plant variety, under ideal
conditions, mist can be off 10 days after sticking.
AFTER 14
DAYS
• Fast to root cuttings can be ready to plant.
The Dutch growing system in this photo has
controlled humidity by covering the propagation
trays wfth either transparent or translucent plastic.
Edges of the trays are sealed so that no air current
at the sides affect the cuttings. No misting system is
used.
47
Articles
Foliar methods: Do's and Don'ts
Propagate plants from cuttings using foliar applied
aqueous IBA rooting solutions.
Foliar methods: historical background
Foliar applied rooting solutions for plant propagation from
cuttings: historical background and utility
History and methods to apply rooting solutions by basal and
foliar methods
by Joel Krain, Hortus USA Corp.
Physiology offoliar methods and their
relationship to the juvenality & maturity of
cuttings
Growth regulator effects on adventitious root formation in
leaf bud cuttings of juvenile and mature Ficus pumila
by F. T. Davies, Jr. and J. N. Joiner
How foliar methods were adopted by
Bailey Nursery
Auxin application via foliar sprays
How Bailey Nurseries developed their program to foliar apply
rooting solutions when propagating plants from cuttings
by Samuel Drahn, Bailey Nurseries
Label
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Propagate plants from cuttings using aqueous /BA rooting
solutions by foliar and basal methods:
Basal
Foliar
QUICK DIP
LONG SOAK
SPRAY DRIP DOWN
TOT AL IMMERSE
Propagate plants from cuttings using foliar
applied aqueous (water based) IBA Rooting
Solutions. Tips: do's and don'ts
Today growers worldwide successfully propagate plants from
cuttings using foliar applied aqueous (water based) IBA rooting
solutions. They use the Spray Drip Down and Total Immerse Methods.
Leafy cuttings are taken from annual, perennial, and woody plants in the
growing season. Compared with other propagation methods, foliar
application has significant labor and material cost savings. Cuttings are
treated in bulk at low rates.
Basal methods are still very important when propagating plants from
cuttings. Quick Dip especially, has a long successful use and should be
considered along side foliar methods as appropriate for needs.
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablet IBA Rooting Solutions are used for all
basal and foliar methods.
A Brief History of Foliar Applied IBA Rooting Solutions
More than twenty-five years ago growers who wanted to propagate
plants from cuttings by using rooting hormones were limited to basal
application. Scientists had known plants produce growth substances
(rooting hormones) in leaves. Charles Darwin, in his book 'The Power of
Movement in Plants' (1880), described his study of the production and
flow of these substances from the leaves to the lower portions of the
plant. Scientists later identified the substances produced by plants.
Commercial rooting hormones became available. As scientists and
growers advanced procedures to propagate plants from cuttings they
only focused on basal application of rooting hormones. They did not
consider that foliar application of rooting hormones would naturally
translocate to the basal end of cuttings where it can induce root
formation.
Dr. Frederick Davies did histological and physiological studies on
the foliar application of aqueous IBA rooting solutions (1978). IBA is a
well used root promoting substance. The studies were concurrent with
his propagation work comparing root formation in juvenile and mature
cuttings.
In 1985 Kees Eigenraam, the technical advisor at Rhizopon,
introduced to Dutch growers the foliar application of IBA rooting
solutions to propagate plants from cuttings. At the time, Kees did not
know the research by Dr. Davies. Kees and Joel Krain began to
formalize the foliar techniques later named the Spray Drip Down and
Total Immerse Methods. By the early 1990's they introduced these
techniques to US growers. Initially growers of annual plants adopted
the methods. Soon after, growers at Yoder (now Aris) Green Leaf Plants
and Keepsake Plants began using the Spray Drip Down Method on their
many perennial plant varieties. They also developed a foliar program
on their Yoder brand chrysanthemums.
After 2000, Sam Drahn's studies at Bailey Nurseries led to their
extensive use of the Spray Drip Down Method on woody ornamental
plant cuttings.
Plant propagation by cuttings
using foliar applied aqueous
IBA rooting solutions
Entry of
IBA through
leaf stomata
Aqueous
IBA rooting
solution
Spray
Drip Down "Method
Total Immerse
Method
The natural rooting
hormone (IAA) is
produced in leaves
during photosynthesis
Polar
transport
of IBA
to the
basal end
of cuttings
for root
formation
Relative Auxin
Concentration
2.8
Applied IBA in an
aqueous rooting
solution enters the
plant through the
stomata in leaves
12.8
15.0
!
Storage and
use of Rooting
Hormones to
form new roots
atthe
Basal End
Polar Transport
of IAA and applied
IBA
19.0
19.4
IBA induces
new root formation
at the basal end
Polar Transport in Cuttings
of the Applied IBA and Natural
IAA Rooting Hormones
Relative Distribution of
Auxin in a Cutting
Based upon Thimann, Hormones Action in the
Whole Life of Plants Life in Plants (1977)
Methods to Propagate Plants from Cuttings
Currently five methods are used to propagate plants from cuttings. No
one method is best for all plant varieties under all situations. Use the
optimum foliar and or basal methods as needed for the plants and
operation of the facility.
Basal Methods
Three methods are used to apply rooting hormones to the basal end of
cuttings. The methods are used all year depending upon the condition of
the cuttings.
Using dry powder rooting hormones ready for use:
• Basal Dry Dip Method
Using rooting solutions:
• Basal Quick Dip Method
• Basal Long Soak Method
Foliar Methods
Two methods are used to apply rooting solutions to the leaves of
cuttings. The methods are used on leafy cuttings taken from during the
growing season. They are not used on leafless or dormant cuttings.
Using aqueous (water based) IBA rooting solutions:
• Spray Drip Down Method
• Total Immerse Method
How Does Foliar Application Work?
Leafy cuttings are taken from stock plants in the growing season.
Leafless or dormant cuttings are not used.
The leaves of plant cuttings are treated with aqueous (water based)
IBA solutions. IBA can enter the vascular system through open pores
in the stomata. Stomata are open in a temperature range from about
60-90°F (15-33°C) and when cuttings are well hydrated before
treatment.
The IBA translocates through the plant's vascular system, by polar
(one way) transport, to the basal end of the cuttings.
At the basal end the IBA induces root formation.
We can look at the /BA flow like a "Ferryboat Carrier Model", a
traditional model of biological transport:
Ferryboats pickup an ever increasing number of passengers on the
departure side. They are transported across the river to a small arrival
loading dock. The loading dock fills to capacity, then, some passengers
are thrown into the river.
A large amount of /BA is applied to the leaves where it enters the
plant's system. /BA is polar transported through in the phloem to the
basal end where it accumulates. The needed amount of /BA at the basal
end initiates new roots. Excess /BA is returned, in the non-polar route, to
the leaves. Returned /BA may cause tender leaves to show some
deformities. When return flow stops, new leaves will form normally.
Quality roots will form as expected.
In the leaves,
translocation
of IBA toward
the basal end
of cutting
through the
Vascular
Bundles
Vascular
Bundles
Leaf Cross Section:
Entry of IBA through open Stomata
and Translocation toward the Basal End
t
Arrows on the cross sections show:
Primary Shoot
Primary Polar
Transport
Route from
Leaf to the
Basal End of
the Cutting
i
Secondary
Non-polar
Transport Route
that can be used
to return excess
IBA
Secondary Body
Free IBA Transport from Leaves to the
Basal End of cuttings through the
Primary Shoots and Secondary Bodies
Foliar Methods
Foliar methods are simple.
• Apply aqueous (water based) IBA rooting solutions to leafy cuttings
taken in the growing season.
• Labor saving: cuttings are processed in bulk.
• Low rates: low material cost.
Spray Drip Down TM Method
• Stick the cuttings into media.
• Use the selected sprayer.
Spray the solution onto the leaves of
the cuttings until there is a drip
down.
• Excess application is best.
• The solution gets sucked by capillary
action into the plant's subsystem. Wait
about 3/4 hour or until the solution
dries on the leaves, then turn on
misters.
Some benefits:
• No PPE is required for sticking
untreated cuttings.
• The Spray Drip Down Method can be
used on many small production lots at
one time.
• The solutions are used one time.
There can be no cross contamination
between production lots due to
biological matter being dragged into the
solution.
Spray until you see
Drip Down of the solution
Total Immerse Method
• Use a tub and strainer basket.
• Dip the cuttings in the solution until
the leaves are completely covered
with liquid, about five seconds.
• Drain.
• Stick the cuttings into media.
Some benefits:
• Simple equipment is used.
• The Total Immerse Method can be used for large homogeneous plant
lots that are clean and free of diseases.
• The method requires little setup. It can be used on small lots.
• Can be used to treat large leaves that may be difficult to spray
uniformly.
Rooting Solutions for Foliar Methods
Foliar methods use aqueous (water based) IBA solutions.
• Water is the natural fluid in plants that is used to translocate natural
rooting substances.
The US EPA requires registration of IBA rooting products. There are
only two registered products used to make water-based IBA rooting
solutions and labeled for foliar application . These products are:
Hortus IBA Water Soluble
Salts
• WEIGH THE SALTS
• Mix into water
Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets
• COUNT TABLETS
• Mix into water
Only Use Water Based IBA Solutions
Do NOT use alcohol base IBA rooting solutions when using foliar
application. Alcohol dehydrates plant tissue and causes cutting fatality
cal led 'Alcohol burns'.
Dry powder rooting hormone products, like Rhizopon AA #1, #2 and #3,
are not used by foliar application . These products are INSOLUBLE in
water.
Make Concentrate Rooting Solutions
It is sometimes easier to measure and mix solutions rather than dry
measure the Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets for many production tanks. In those cases make up a
solution concentrate at the required number of grams or tablets, then,
decant the solution into the production tank. Add water to bring the tank
to the required volume. Warm water helps to dissolve the Salts and
Tablets.
Foliar Rates
• Annual Cuttings
Annual cuttings require low rates. Some tender plant varieties and
juvenile cuttings are treated at rates 80-100 ppm IBA. If rates are
slightly too high there may be some leaf distortion; the roots may form
well and new leaves will be normal. Leaf distortion many not be
evident on mature cuttings.
• Perennial and Woody Ornamental Plant Cuttings
Perennial and woody plant cuttings have a similar range of rates.
The selected trial rates are: 500, 1000, and 1500 ppm IBA
• Rates above 1500 ppm IBA are rarely needed except for some
mature cuttings.
• Rates below 500 ppm IBA are sometimes needed for juvenile
tender perennial cuttings.
• Tissue Culture Plantlets
Use the Total Immerse Method on tissue culture plantlets when
transplanting at the third to fifth stages.
• Blueberry example: use two Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
per liter water. Other typical rates are 1-3 Tablets/liter water.
Trial Foliar Application Rates
using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts & Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets
Cutti ng Type
Initial
Trial Rates
Hortusl BA
Water
So luble Salts
(as ppm IBA)
...
Rhizopon
AA Water
Soluble
Tablets
(tablets per
liter water)
I
Annuals and
tender Perennials
50-250 ppm I
IBA I1
125 ppm
IBA
1-5
tablet/liter
1000 ppm
IBA
5-30
tablets/I iter
I
Perennials
250-1500 ppm I
IBA I1
I
I
Woody
Ornamental
300-1500 ppm I
IBA I1
TC plantlets at 3rd to 5t h stage transplants
6-30
tablets/I iter
1-3
tablets/I iter
• Juvenile cuttings require lower rates than mature cuttings.
• Do not use the same rates for foliar application as used by the
Basal Quick Dip Method, they are usually too high.
Use the Proper Equipment
Spray Drip DownTM Method
Use appropriate equipment for the job for labor saving and
effectiveness.
Typical sprayers: hand back pack, hydraulic, site specific sprayer, and
automated robots.
Hydraulic Sprayer
Typical Backpack
Sprayer
Spray Drip Down Method
(Balley Nurseries)
Spray Drip Down Method
on Chrysanthemum (Holland)
Rotate Bar to go over Benches (all directions)
Calibrated Spray h・。セ@
This sketch shows a
custom spray cart used at
Aris Green Leaf Plants in
Lancaster PA.
'"" ,-4't-
1
Total Immerse Method
Use a basket for dipping into the solution
tank.
Do not overload the baskets to avoid
cutting breakage.
• Do not use a basket or tank made from
materials that can corrode.
The top photo shows a large hedera (ivy)
greenhouse in the Netherlands. Workers
in the back do sticking after Total Immerse
treatment in the tank shown.
The bottom photo shows Total Immerse
treatment of blueberry Tissue Culture
plantlets. Few cuttings are in the basket
to prevent damage.
...
4
"
1
""
Control Switch
The Cuttings
Cutting Types
For foliar methods, use leafy cuttings in the growing season; do
not take dormant or leafless cuttings. For those cuttings use the basal
Dry Dip, Basal Long Soak, or Basal Quick Dip Methods.
Cutting Maturity
• Do not use hard woody or old mature cuttings.
• Juvenile cuttings are easier to propagate from cuttings compared
to those which are mature. When possible, take cuttings from
cuttings. Juvenile cuttings require lower IBA rooting solution
rates than mature cuttings.
Bad cuttings cannot be revived.
FOR ALL PROPAGATION
METHODS
Cutting Nodes
• Use cuttings that do not have nodes
or buds at the basal end.
Do Not Cut Leaf Tips
In old-school for propagation by other
methods, some growers cut the tips of
large leaf cuttings to obtain more
cuttings in a propagation tray.
Not acceptable
bud or node
Acceptable with
no bud or node
There are reasons NOT to cut the
tips:
The cut causes a wound that is
open to infection.
The cuttings have reduced natural
rooting substance IAA formed at a
usual place, the tips of leaves.
The natural IAA works with the
applied IBA to induce roots. With
the tips cut, there is less IAA
Use cuttings without
available.
cutting tips
With a wound present, the cuttings
use valuable resources to heal,
rather than induce root formation.
Growing compact stock plants allow taking cuttings from an earlier
stage where the preferred leaves are smaller.
Importance of the Stomata
Stomata are located on outside surfaces of plants. When stomata pores
open they allow fluid, vapor and gas exchanges between the plant and
it's environment. Stomata on some plant varieties are more numerous,
larger, and on the underside of leaves. In some varieties there are more
stomata on the underside.
• Stomata
• open when cuttings are well hydrated.
• open when temperatures and other factors
are suitable for translocation of fluids and
air.
• close when cuttings are wilted.
• close when protecting the plant from
exchanges under harsh environmental
conditions.
• close in the dark and open in the light.
Sometimes identifying the primary stomata side
is easy. Leaf curl means the plant is under stress Typical winter leaf curl
on Rhododendron
leading to closed stomata interior to the curl. The
photo shows leaf curl due to bottom closed
stomata, protecting against harsh winter environment.
Foliar Method considerations:
• The Total Immerse Method gets the IBA solution on both sides of
leaves.
• Spray Drip Down Method should be used to spray leaves both top and
bottom.
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets solutions are made to have free IBA entry into the plant's
vascular system.
Coverage by the Spray Drip Down Method
The person doing spraying must see the solution drip down from the
leaves. This is a visual indicator that an adequate amount of solution
has been applied. The top and bottom of cuttings should be treated.
Foliar Spray Solution Utilization
Using the Spray Drip Down Method, the amount of solution needed to
cover an area varies. Typical solution use is about 200 sf/gallon (10 sq
meter/liter).
Total Immerse Method Timing
Using the Total Immerse Method dip cuttings in the solution until the
leaves are completely covered with liquid, about five seconds.
Foliar Spray Drip Down™ Method for
Multiple Applications and Transplanting
When plant cuttings utilize applied rooting solutions and rooting
hormone powders, some cuttings apparently need a steady flow of the
IBA. If one time application is inadequate, daily sequential Spray Drip
Down Method solution application induces root cell division during time
based cell activity.
Where cuttings are known slow-to-root or have low percentage rooting,
sequential Spray Drip Down Method may be an option. Then, where high
IBA rates had been used unsuccessfully, lower sequential IBA rates may
result in better rooting performance. Using the Spray Drip Down Method
on transplants gives an extra boost for root cell regeneration.
The trial rates listed previously in this article use the Spray Drip Down
Method using solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets.
Sequential Three Day Treatment
After sticking, many growers increase root formation and root
mass when applying the rooting solution by the Spray Drip
Down Method , in a three day sequence, at the same initial
rate.
Leveling Crops
Secondary Spray Drip Down Method foliar applications can be used
on leafy cuttings in the active growing state no matter how they were
first treated by any rooting method. The second application may help to
improve root formation on slow-to-root cuttings. Applications may be
done weekly or as required to improve the leveling of crops. Some plant
growers use this method on all their production, whether or not the
rooting is considered slow. Rates are similar to those used for first foliar
application.
Trial Range
Annual cuttings
100-150 ppm IBA
Improving Rooting of 'Slow-to-Root' Cuttings
Secondary Spray Drip Down Method foliar applications can be used
on slow to root cuttings in the active growing state using the same initial
rate. For cuttings first treated by another rooting method use the Spray
Drip Down rate recommendations.
Spray Time of the Day
Sometimes spray is done early the morning following the day of sticking.
Where ambient temperatures are high, early morning treatment at cool
temperatures has benefit; leaf stomata are open.
Treatment of Transplants and Divisions
When rooted cuttings and plant divisions are transplanted they require
stimulation to regenerate and make new root cells. Use the Spray Drip
Down Method on planted cuttings and divisions.
Trial Ranges
Grass divisions & annual rooted cuttings:
100-150 ppm IBA
Perennial rooted cuttings:
750-1000 ppm IBA
Woody ornamental rooted cuttings:
750-1000 ppm IBA
Labor Saving
Growers find foliar methods require less labor than basal methods.
It is faster to stick cuttings when they are batch treated as compared
with individual basal treatment.
Hybrid Propagation Systems and Solution Product Inventory
Many growers use a hybrid system of both basal and foliar
applications in the same facility. By season, foliar methods may be
used with some crops, dry powder rooting hormones or basal quick
dip for others.
When using aqueous IBA rooting solutions you can use the same
product for both basal and foliar application solution needs. There is
no need to stock more than one product.
Foliar Application Temperature
For foliar methods do not apply when the cuttings and solutions are
at low or high ambient temperatures. Use foliar application when the
temperature of both the solution and cuttings are at about 60-90°F
(15-33°C).
Sticking and Treatment Timing
Apply by the Spray Drip Down Method within the day of sticking.
For cuttings kept in a hot climate, such as southern Florida, cuttings
are stuck during the day and treated early the following morning.
Cutting Hydration and Misting
Well hydrate cuttings before foliar treatment:
Hydrate cuttings before treating to assure the stomata are open.
This will allow the IBA solution to enter the vascular system.
Wilted cuttings have closed stomata. The cuttings must be fully
hydrated before treatment.
Well hydrate cuttings after foliar treatment:
When using the Total Immerse Method, misters can be turned on
any time after sticking. There is always a lag time between
treatment and sticking.
When using the Spray Drip Down Method, wait to turn on misters
about 3/4 hour or until the solution dries on the leaves.
Some growers of chrysanthemum find they get better rooting when
they let the cuttings lose turgor before turning on misters.
Use Appropriate PPE
Use the most effective PPE that complies with the product label.
Unless otherwise specified, thin waterproof gloves are adequate for
handling aqueous (water based) IBA rooting solutions.
No chemicals are handled by sticking personal when using the
Spray Drip Down Method, therefore no gloves or other PPE are
needed. Thin gloves may be used solely for sanitary purposes.
Rooting Solution Disposal
See page 17 of this book
No Wetting Agents
Using foliar methods there is no need to use wetting agents in
solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon
AA Water Soluble Tablets.
Overcoming Problems
Trials are Essential
Always do trials on small lots before doing production.
Evaluate a range of rates and methods.
Typical Deformities on Tender Plant Cuttings
Leaf curl and spotting are sometimes due to too high an IBA rate, but
reversible.
When IBA is applied to the leaves of cuttings, it is absorbed into the
vascular system then translocated to the basal end by polar
transport. At the basal end the IBA is accumulated. If there is an
IBA excess, it will move back to the leaves causing leaf deformities
such curl or spotting.
Despite initial leaf irregularities, the cuttings will usually form normal
roots and normal new leaves.
Leaf Curl
Leaf Spotting
Consider Plant Variations
For any successful method of propagation there sometimes may be unexpected results. "The" method or rate may be considered the culprit
even though there was not knowingly change to the rate, method, timing,
product, or other factors.
A common problem when using foliar application of rooting solutions is
selection of juvenile vs mature cuttings. With excessive rates, juvenile
cutting may exhibit distortions in leaves. Juvenile cuttings require lower
rates than mature cuttings.
Some of many things to consider:
Genetic variations of the cuttings: different stock plants.
Quality of the cuttings.
Deviations in the growing area such as changes in the
environmental control systems and facility.
Cuttings taken from a different part of the stock area, location, or
plantation.
Timing of taking cuttings from previous.
Seasonal variations from the norm.
Conclusions
Foliar applied rooting solutions by the Spray Drip Down and Total
Immerse Methods are useful for propagating plants from leafy
cuttings in the growing season. Opposite to foliar application,
there are times when basal applied rooting powders and rooting
solutions are more useful.
Consider:
The plants being propagated.
The time of the year that propagation is being done.
The quality of roots produced on the cuttings.
The facility advantages and setup cost.
Labor factors including time saved or lost in the process and
training.
Material cost.
Always do trials on small lots before doing production.
Evaluate a range of rates and methods.
Try different methods on a variety of plants when propagating
from cuttings. All the methods have proven useful under
appropriate conditions: the basal Quick Dip, Basal Long Soak,
Dry Dip Methods, and the foliar Spray Drip Down and Total
Immerse Methods.
Consider a hybrid system. To produce an optimum crop it may
be beneficial to use several methods concurrently. Basal
methods may be used on a crop at one time of the year and
foliar methods at another time.
Presentation made at the International Plant Propagator's Society, Eastern and
Southern Region Meetings. October 2014
Foliar Applied Rooting Solutions for Plant
Propagation from Cuttings:
Historical Background and Utility
Joel Krain, Hortus USA Corp., support@hortus.com, rootinghormones.com
INTRODUCTION
The propagation of plants from cuttings using foliar methods is
easy:
• Take leafy cuttings in the growing state.
• Apply aqueous (water based) IBA rooting solutions to the
leaves by spray or total immerse dip.
• Sticking is done either before or after treatment depending
upon the method.
• Roots are produced at the basal end of the cuttings.
Today foliar applied aqueous IBA rooting solutions are
successfully used to propagate leafy cuttings taken in the growing
state. Fundamentals of the process seem obvious. It had been
known for over a century that some substances were produced in
leaves, causing plant growth regulation in other parts of the plant.
These natural substances, called auxins, have been identified. The
basic natural auxin, IAA, was found produced in leaves. Contained
in aqueous solutions, auxins can be applied to leaves. These
solutions can enter the vascular system of plants through pores in
leaves called stomata. Inside the system, the auxins move by polar
transport to the basal end of cuttings. Though physiological
interactions, scientists believe that IAA becomes another natural
auxin, IBA. Therefore, when an IBA in aqueous rooting solution is
applied to leaves, it can enter the vascular system. IBA can be
transported, with the leaf produced IAA, to the basal end. At the
basal end, by processes still unknown by scientists, IAA and IBA
induce cell division resulting in root formation.
BACKGROUND
For more than a century, botanists debated how plants regulate
growth. One of the mysterious phenomenon, root cells form in
apparently normal plant tissue. Julius Sachs (1892) proposed
specific substances act to form leaves, roots, or stems, moving
with polarly in specific directions. His theory was that the root
forming substance was formed in leaves and translocates to the
lower parts of the plant, there stimulating root production.
The later generation scientist, Fritz Went was influenced by
Sachs' ideas. Went's doctoral thesis (1928), developed the 'bioassay' technique. Bio-assay is used to identify substances
developed in tips of plants which translocate to lower portions of
the plant for growth regulation. Using bio-assay, Went and Kenneth
Thimann ( 1934) identified the plant growth regulator lndole acetic
acid, IAA, as a natural substance produced in leaves. IAA has the
ability to translocate within the plants' vascular system. Using IAA
as a starting point, they identified other close compounds, 'auxins',
which potentially have similar plant growth regulator activity.
Of the auxins, lndole butyric acid (IBA) and Naphthalene acetic
acid (NAA) were found to have utility in plant growth regulation.
Recently, IBA was found naturally occurring. After the discovery
that auxins were important for root formation, it was well known,
these natural substances were produced in inadequate amounts to
initiate root formation on most plant cuttings. For those cuttings
that cannot form roots on their own or are slow-to-root, external
applications of auxins are required to achieve rooting.
After identification of the auxins, Went, Thimann, the Boyce
Thompson Institute researchers, and other scientists, developed
techniques to use them. Their research on root formation was
limited to basal application, for intended root formation. They
locally applied auxin based dry powders (rooting hormone
powders), auxin solutions, (rooting solutions), or auxin containing
lanolin pastes to the basal end of cuttings. Positive root formation
was observed.
Believed to be the first studies, foliar applied auxin solutions
were successfully used to root of carnation cuttings by D.W.
Cheever (1967). The earliest published histology study on foliar
applied aqueous IBA rooting solutions was Frederick Davies' PhD
thesis (1978). Cuttings were taken in the growing state. Davies
demonstrated root formation on Ficus pumila juvenile cuttings
require lower IBA rates, with higher root numbers as compared to
mature cuttings. (Davies and Joiner's article on their research is in
this book.)
After the discovery of auxins, in Holland, the Amsterdam Chinin
Factory (ACF) first produced commercial auxins under their
Rhizopon division (1940). Rhizopon manufactures commercial
plant rooting products, both dry dip powders and water soluble
tablets to make rooting solutions. To improve use of the rooting
solution products, the Rhizopon scientist Kees Eigenraam
developed the first commercial foliar methods (1985). At the time,
Eigenraam did not know the research by Davies. The first
commercial users were Dutch growers propagating
chrysanthemum cuttings. These growers found, foliar application
reduced labor and improved the root formation of cuttings.
Joel Krain, of Hortus USA, first met Eigenraam in 1989. They
discussed the foliar methods that were newly used. Other than
Rhizopon's data sheets, Krain could not find anything written about
foliar methods. Literature of the time said plant propagation from
cuttings was limited to basal methods. Lacking foliar nomenclature
and other basic information, Krain termed the 'Spray Drip Down
Method' and 'Total Immerse Method'. Over the years, Krain and
Eigenraam improved and documented foliar methods.
For use of foliar and basal methods, Hortus USA, introduced
US growers to Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets (measured by
counting tablets) (1993). Tablets, when dissolved in water, make
aqueous (water based) IBA rooting solutions. Among the first US
foliar method users were the Yoder chrysanthemum propagators in
Florida. Soon after, Yoder established their perennial propagation
facility, now called Aris Green Leaf Plants, in Lancaster PA. There
they began using the foliar Spray Drip Down Method. Keeping
concise records, they established rates for thousands of named
plant varieties. Their cuttings are taken from juvenile stock plants,
resulting in rooting uniformity. Significant for propagators of high
volume annual and perennial plants, foliar methods save labor.
Cuttings are treated in bulk rather than individually. Low rooting
solution rates result in low material cost. Hortus USA developed
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts, measured by weighting powder, to
meet the aqueous (water based) IBA rooting solution needs of
plant propagators.
Soon after, Bailey Nurseries' research director Sam Drahn,
started to use the Spray Drip Down Method to root woody
ornamental cuttings. Based upon his data, it became apparent, the
rates for woody ornamental plant cuttings are similar to those
obtained by Dr. Davies' juvenile cuttings, and the perennial cuttings
of Green Leaf Plants.
Using this information, rates were established for two basic
groups of cutting rates for juvenile leafy cuttings that are in the
growing state. Rates for mature leafy cuttings are higher than the
rates for juvenile cuttings.
Cuttings of perennial and woody ornamental plants require the
same rates; the midpoint trial rate is about 1000 ppm IBA using
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets. (Drahn's article on his research is in this book.)
Cuttings of annual plants require very low rates; the midpoint
trial rate is about 125 ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble
Salts or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets.
The technology of foliar application of aqueous (water based)
IBA rooting solutions are based upon plant physiology. Water is the
natural fluid carrier in the plant's vascular system. As previously
described, it has been found that both IAA and IBA are naturally
produced by plants. IAA produced in leaves is usually inadequate
for root initiation. IAA is unstable; it decays rapidly due to biological
factors, light, and heat. Whereas, IBA is stable when needed for
root initiation. Compared with IAA, IBA has greater ability to initiate
roots. Various studies suggest IBA may be a very simple
'conjugate' of IAA and must be converted to IAA by b-oxidation. As
such, either IAA or IBA may be the substance that induces cell
division and root initiation. The plant can use the applied IBA as a
booster where natural IAA is not sufficient for root formation. It has
also been shown, auxins translocate from the apical to basal
portions of the plant section.
The foliar entry point of applied aqueous (water based) IBA
rooting solution into the plant is though the structure called
'stomata'. While mostly found on the underside of leaves, stomata
can also be found on other plant parts including upper leaf
surfaces, stems and specialized structures. Their function is to
regulate interchange of gases, including water vapor, between the
plant and the environment. The stomata have two principal parts,
the internal pore and the surrounding guard cells. Guard cells
regulate the size of the pores. For foliar application of rooting
solutions to work successfully the pores must be open. Studies
show stomata are open when cuttings are well hydrated and when
temperatures and other factors allow translocation of gas, vapor
and liquid. Stomata close when cuttings are wilted.
Stomata! cavities contain air spaces and leaf mesophyll cells
that can absorb fluids such as aqueous (water based) IBA
solutions. Rooting solution absorption is caused by pressure
differentials between the relative humidity outside the leaf and the
stomata! cavity, (for example, VPD 'vapor pressure deficit'). After
the applied IBA rooting solution enters the leaves, it is absorbed
and enters vascular bundles (the phloem). The bundles facilitate
translocation of fluids through the plant. Along with leaf produced
IAA, the applied and natural IBA is translocated in a polar direction
to the basal end of the cuttings; adventitious roots are initiated and
formed. If an excess of IBA is foliar applied, it may be possible for it
to return, by non-polar transport, to upper portions of the cutting. If
so, herbaceous cuttings may exhibit leaf curls or spotting. If the
excess were not too high, the cuttings will still produce proper
rooting and growth. Lowest possible IBA rates avoid such
phytotoxicity.
METHODS
Three basal and two basal methods are successfully used to
propagate plants from cuttings.
Three basal methods, the Dry Dip, Basal Long Soak and Quick
Dip Methods, have been used since discovery of auxins. Cuttings
of active growing or dormant annuals, perennials, and woody
plants can be used.
The Dry Drip Method uses dry powder rooting hormones. Basal
ends of the cuttings are dipped into the powder then stuck. The
Basal Long Soak Method, was well used through 1950's. The
method uses rooting solutions. Basal ends of the cuttings are
soaked into the rooting solution for several hours then stuck. The
Quick Dip Method uses rooting solutions. Basal ends of the
cuttings are dipped into the rooting solution for a few seconds then
stuck.
Two foliar methods, the Spray Drip Down and Total Immerse
Methods have been in use as described previously. Cuttings of
actively growing or dormant annuals, perennials, and woody plants
are used. The methods use aqueous (water based) IBA rooting
solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon
AA Water Soluble Tablets. The Spray Drip Down Method is used
on cuttings that are first stuck. The rooting solution is sprayed onto
the leaves until liquid drops are seen to drip down. Drop formation
on the top and bottom of the leaves is preferred. The Total
Immerse Method has cuttings totally immersed in the rooting
solution for a few seconds then stuck. Rates for the two Methods
are similar.
Compared with basal methods, foliar methods have improved
rooting quality, reduced misses, reduced labor cost, and material
cost savings. Basal methods can be used on cuttings taken all
year. Foliar methods can be used on cuttings taken growing state.
Selection of the method to be used for particular cuttings should be
based upon facility needs, direct and in direct cost, the plant
variety, and growing state. In the same facility, some plant taxa,
such as selected cultivars of Chrysanthemums or Roses, are
sometimes propagated in parallel using either foliar or basal
methods.
ROOTING STATIONS AND LINER PROPAGATORS USE FOLIAR
METHODS
The Spray Drip Down Method is used by annual plant growers
including Dummen's Red Fox rooting stations and Yoder
Chrysanthemums. Some perennial plant grower users are Aris'
Green Leaf Plants and Keepsake Plants. Many woody plant
growers also use it, including Bailey Nurseries. Total Immerse is
extensively used on crops such as many perennials, and other
plants such as phlox, dianthus, and hedera (ivy). The Total
Immerse Method is also used on tissue culture plantlets when
transplanting in the greenhouse stage.
FOLIAR METHODS
THE TOTAL IMMERSE METHOD
The Total Immerse Method is used on cuttings taken in the
growing state. Small or large homogeneous plant lots and be used.
To avoid cross contamination between production lots, cuttings
must be clean and disease free. Cuttings are treated then stuck.
Rooting Solutions are made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets.
Cuttings are dipped into the rooting solution until the leaves are
completely covered with liquid for about five seconds. The result is,
leaves have treatment on both their tops and bottoms. After
draining, the cuttings are stuck into media. A simple tub and
strainer basket are used to treat the cuttings. It is important not to
over-load baskets to avoid cutting breakage. Dipped cuttings bring
biological materials into the solution. Disposing of the rooting
solution between dissimilar cutting lots is best. When homogenous
lots are treated, the rooting solution should be disposed at the end
of the production day or period. Personnel Protection Equipment
(PPE) is required as stated on the product labels.
THE SPRAY DRIP DOWN™ METHOD
The Spray Drip Down Method can be used on small or large
plant lots. Cuttings of different types can be treated together.
Cuttings are stuck then treated. Rooting solutions are made with
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble
Tablets.
After sticking cuttings, the rooting solution is sprayed onto the
leaves until there is a drip down. The drips are visual indicators of
the adequate amount of applied solution. Leaf treatment should be
both their top and bottom. An excess application is best. After
spray treatment, misters can be turned on after about 3/4 hour or
until the rooting solution dries on the leaves. Typical application
uses about 10 m2 / liter (190-220 ff/gallon). Various types of
sprayers are used such as backpack, hydraulic, boom, or custom
made. The rooting solution is used one time. Since the unused
rooting solution is kept in the sprayer tank, there is no possible
rooting solution contamination between production lots. No
personnel protection equipment (PPE) is required to stick untreated
cuttings. Thin gloves may be used solely for sanitary purposes.
SOLUTIONS USED BY FOLIAR METHODS
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets are US EPA registered. Mixed with ordinary water,
they are used to make aqueous (water based) IBA rooting
solutions. Their labels approve use by basal and foliar methods.
When used by foliar methods, it is not necessary to use of wetting
agents with their solutions. Where foliar and basal methods are
used in the same facility, it is only necessary to inventory one or
both products for any method.
A gram scale is used to weight Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
or large quantities of Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets. Or,
Tablets can be counted. The Salts or Tablets are dissolved in
water. If a concentrate is made, it can be added to the production
tank; water is added to bring to the required liquid volume. Warm
water, at hand washing temperature, makes dissolving easier than
when using cold water. For ease of handling, concentrate Hortus
IBA Water Soluble Salts aqueous IBA rooting solutions can be
made to over 80,000 ppm IBA. Solutions should be made soon
before use. Unused rooting solutions can be kept a short period.
Solutions that have cuttings dipped-in should be discarded soon
after use.
RATES (See page 30-38)
The Spray Drip Down and Total Immerse Methods use similar
rates for cuttings. Rates used by the Basal Quick Dip Method are
usually too high for foliar methods. Juvenile cuttings require lower
rates than mature cuttings. Plants growers generally know which of
their cuttings are seasonally easy or hard-to-root and adjust their
rates. Where leaf distortions occur, the rates are to be adjusted
downward.
Annual and tender plant cuttings, and some juvenile cuttings,
selected rates at about 80 to 200 ppm IBA using solutions
made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA
Water Soluble Tablets. The midpoint trial rate is about 125 ppm
IBA.
Perennial and woody ornamental cuttings require similar rates.
Selected rates at about 500, 1000, and 1500 ppm IBA using
solutions made with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts or
Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets. The midpoint trial rate is
about 1000 ppm IBA. Mature cutting rates above 1500 ppm IBA
are rarely used. Juvenile and tender cuttings, rates below 500
ppm IBA are used.
RATES: DIVISIONS AND CUTTING TRANSPLANTS.
The Spray Drip Down Method is used to treat divisions and
young rooted cutting transplants after transplanting. Cutting
transplants require the same rates as if they are unrooted.
Ornamental grasses transplant divisions require rates as if they
were annual cuttings.
RATES: TC TRANSPLANTS.
When transplanting tissue culture plantlets, the Total Immerse
Method is used with Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets at about
one to three tablets/liter solution. As a guideline for TC rate
selection, the rate for cultivated highbush blueberry TC transplants
is about two Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets/liter solutions
(One tablet/liter solution was shown inadequate and three
tablets/liter solution formed callus mis-formation.)
THE CUTTINGS
Leafy cuttings are taken from stock plants in the active growing
state. There must be internal sap flow. Dormant cuttings are not
used; there are limited metabolic activities and restricted sap flow
and vascular uptake. Leafless cuttings have no 'leaf' entry points.
Aqueous (water based) IBA solutions, using Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts or Rhizopon AA Water Soluble Tablets, are applied
to leaves. The rooting solution enters the plant's vascular system
through open pores in leaves through 'stomata' structures.
Stomata are open in a temperature range about 60-90°F
(16-32°C), provided cuttings are well hydrated. After entry into the
vascular system, the IBA translocates to the basal end where it
helps to initiate roots.
The rules for taking annual, perennial and woody plant cuttings
are simple. Take leafy cuttings in the active growing state. Juvenile
cuttings have better rooting capability compared to mature cuttings.
For root formation, juvenile cutting require lower Rooting Solution
rates than for mature cutting. To maintain juvenality, use 'cuttingsfrom-cuttings' when possible. For foliar methods, dormant or
leafless cuttings, these are propagated by basal methods.
Generally, cuttings that have nodes at the basal end do not root as
well versus cuttings with inter-nodes. Some plant growers cut the
tips of large leaf cuttings to obtain more cuttings in a propagation
tray. The cut causes a wound that is open to infection. Wounds in
the tip area create competing 'sinks', which ties up valuable
resources (metabolites) to heal the leaf wound, rather than induce
root formation at the basal end.
FAVORABLE PROCEDURES
TEMPERATURE.
When using foliar methods it is important not to apply in cold
propagation areas or use cold solutions. Cuttings taken from
coolers must be brought up in temperature before treatment. The
standard foliar application temperature range for cuttings and
solutions should be about 60-90°F (16-32°C), provided the cuttings
are hydrated.
When propagation is done in locations where day temperatures
are high, spraying is done early in the morning after sticking when
temperatures are cool. In south Florida, sticking is done during the
hot time of day, with workers cooled under mist. Spraying is done
early the day after sticking when temperatures are cool.
TIMING BETWEEN STICKING AND TREATMENT BY THE
SPRAY DRIP DOWN METHOD.
Davies and Joiner's studies (1980) showed that there was a
variation in rooting after several days between sticking and
treatment. For example, it is best to use foliar auxin applications
within the first 48 hours of sticking. There was a decline in rooting
after waiting more than a week to treat with IBA rooting solutions.
Hortus USA's trials determined that it is best to treat the same day,
or the following morning, after sticking.
Many growers have found root formation increase when, after
sticking, using three day sequential Spray Drip Down Method at
the same rate each day. Perennial and woody ornamental develop
improved roots when treated at about 750-1000 ppm IBA using
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts solutions.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
(Reference the product label for specific PPE)
When using the Spray Drip Down Method, treatment workers
doing spraying must use appropriate PPE. It is best to spray while
other workers are not in the production area. This may be done at
the end of the work day when other workers are away. Workers
who only stick do not require PPE since cuttings are untreated.
HYDRATION.
Cuttings should use well hydrated cuttings when using foliar
methods. Wilted cuttings have closed stomata. The rooting
solution must enter the leaf through open pores in the stomata.
Solutions entry is within a few minutes after rooting solution
application. Some European chrysanthemum propagators advise
successful Spray Drip Down Method on slightly limp leaf cuttings.
When using the Spray Drip Down Method, mist systems must be
turned off before spraying. This reduces dilution of the rooting
solution. After spray treatment, misters can be resumed after about
3/4 hour or until the rooting solution dries on the leaves
LABOR SAVINGS AND CONTROL.
Foliar methods have reduced labor cost; sticking batch treating
cuttings is faster than individual hand sticking of cuttings by basal
methods. Foliar methods have no 'misses' as may happen with
basal dip methods. Foliar methods use lower rates, and reduced
material cost, as compared with basal methods.
LEVELING CROPS BY SECONDARY APPLICATION.
To level crops, secondary weekly Spray Drip Down Method
foliar applications are used on leafy cuttings in the active growing
state, at rates similar to the first initial rate. First application may be
any method.
For sequential day application, in this book see the article
"Propagate Plants from Cuttings Using Foliar Applied Aqueous IBA
Rooting Solutions. Tips: Do's and Don'ts", section "Sequential
Treatment".
HYBRID PROPAGATION SYSTEMS.
Cuttings may be treated at time of sticking by any basal (Quick
Dip, Long Soak, Dry Dip) or foliar (Spray Drip Down, Total
Immerse) method. Then, the Spray Drip Down Method is used for
second or third treatment; application will level crops.
Often growers will use either the Quick Dip, Long Soak, Dry
Dip, Spray Drip Down, or Total Immerse Method to propagate
some crops. Then, in parallel, use other method for other crops.
Selection of the method can be dependant upon the plant variety,
time of the year, or facility factors.
In a chrysanthemum propagation facility, it is common to hybrid
operations. At the same or other times in the same facility, the Dry
Dip Method (using dip rooting hormones) are used on some
varieties; the Spray Drip Down Method (using rooting solutions) are
used on other varieties.
ADVANTAGES OF FOLIAR APPLIED AQUEOUS (WATER
BASED) IBA ROOTING SOLUTIONS
• Quality: Foliar methods produce high rooting quality due to
uniform treatment.
• Low material cost: Foliar methods use low rooting solution
rates and reduced material cost compared with the high rate
basal Quick Dip Method.
• Low labor cost: Sticking by foliar methods use on third the labor
of basal treated cuttings. Foliar methods have bulk treated
cuttings. Basal methods have individually treated cuttings.
• Uniform rooting results: there are no misses. Spray Drip Down
Meth treatment is done by skilled workers. Total Immerse
Method is done in bulk.
• No cross contamination: The Spray Drip Down Method reduces
cross contamination of diseases and pathogens; solutions are
used one time.
Reduced Personal Protective equipment: PPE is not required
by workers doing sticking by the Spray Drip Down Method; no
rooting solution is handled.
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts and Rhizopon AA Water
Soluble Tablets have zero hour Restricted Entry Interval (REI).
• Crops can be leveled: secondary spray application of the
rooting solutions to planted crops can level crops.
REFERENCES AND ADDITIONAL READING
Cheever, D.W. 1967. Rooting of carnation cuttings. Colorado Flower Growers Association,
Bulletin 206, June 1967:1-6.
http://hortus.com/IBAarticles/Cheever_ 1967.pdf
Davies, Jr., F .T. 1978. A histological and physiological analysis of adventitious root formation in
juvenile and mature cuttings of Ficus pumila L. Dissertation Presented to the Graduate
Council of The University of Florida, Gainesville.
http://hortus.com/IBAarticles/Davies_ 1978. pdf
Davies, F.T. Jr. & Joiner, J.N. 1980. Growth regulator effects on adventitious root formation in
leaf bud cuttings of juvenile and mature Ficus pumila L., J. Amer.Soc.Hort.Sci. V105:91-95.
http://hortus.com/IBAarticles/Davies_ 1980A.pdf
Drahn, S. 2007. Auxin application via foliar sprays. Combined Proceedings of the International
Plant Propagators' Society. V57.
http://hortus.com//BAarticles/Drahn_2007.pdf
Epstein E, Chen K, Cohen C. 1989. Identification of indole-3-butyric acid as an endogenous
constituent of maize kernels and leaves. Plant Growth Regulation V8:215-223.
http://hortus.com/IBAarticles/Epstein_ 1989.pdf
Greene, R. A History of Botany 1860-1900. Oxford Press. 1909.
https."/larchive.org/details/historyofbotanyOOgree
Ludwig-Muller, Vertocnik, Town. 2005. Analysis of indole-3-butyric acid-induced adventitious
root formation on Arabidopsis stem segments. J Exp Botany. V56:418,2095-2105.
http://jxb.oxfordjournals.org!content/56141812095. full.pdf+html
Liu, Barkawi, Gardner, Cohen, 2012. Transport of indole-3-butyric acid and indole-3-acetic acid
in arabidopsis hypocotyls using stable isotope labeling. Plant Physiology V.158:1988-2000.
http://www.plantphysiol.org/content/1581411988. full.pdf+html
Thimann, K.V. and Went, F. 1934. On the chemical nature of root forming hormone.
http://hortus.com/IBAarticles/Thimann_ 1934.pdf
J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. 105(1):91-95. 1980.
Growth Regulator Effects on Adventitious Root Formation in
Leaf Bud Cuttings of Juvenile and Mature Ficus pumila 1
F. T. Davies, Jr. 2 and J. N. Joiner
Department of Ornamental Horticulture, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611
Additional index words. indolebutyric acid, 6-(benzylamino)-9-(2-tetrahydropyranyl}9H-purine, gibberellic ncid,
creeping fig
A b.rtract. Adventitious root formation was stimulated with foliar application of indolebutyric acid (IBA) from
1000 to 1500 mg/liter for juvenile and 2000 to 3000 mg/liter for mature leaf bud cuttings of Fictts pumi/a L.
IBA increased cambial activity, root initial formation, and primordla differentiation and elongation. IBA stimulated rooting when applied to juvenile cuttings at 3, 5, or 7 days after experiment initiation, but had no effect
on mature cuttings when applied at day 1 S, the final treatment period. The interaction of IBA/gibberellic acid
(GA3 ) did not affect early root development stages, but reduced root elongation and quality once primorida had
differentiated. IBA/6-(benzylamino)-9-(2-tetrahydropyranyl)-9H-purine (PBA) inhibited rooting at early initiation stages.
1 Received for publication April 9, 1979. Florida Agricultural Experiment
Stu lion Journal Series No. 1731.
The cost of publishing this paper was defrayed in part by the payment of
puge charges. Under postal regulations, this paper must therefore be
hereby marked advertisement solely to indicate this fact.
2Present address: Horticultural Science Department, Texas A&M Uni·
vcrsity, College Station, TX 77843.
J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci.
105(1):91-95.
1980.
Recent researchers have generally agreed that adventitious
root formation (ARF) involve sequences of histofogical steps
with each step having different requirements for growth substances (5, 8, 9, 10, 11). Eriksen (5) and Mohammed and
Eriksen (8) found that auxins and cytokinins had different
affects on ARF depending on developmental stage. Si rear (11)
reported 5 different histological stages in which GA 3 and IAA
alternately promoted or inhibited ARF. Hypocotyl cuttings
of herbaceous annuals have been used in previous sequencing
91
experiments, but herbaceous material may not give a true index
of changes occurring in mature woody materials.
The woody ornamental creeping fig (Ficus pumila) exhibits
strong dimorphism (2) and differences in rooting between the
juvenile and mature forms. Objectives of this study were to
determine the effect of IBA, PBA, and GA 3 applied at different rooting developmental stages to juvenile and mature
leaf-bud cuttings (LBC) of F. pumila.
Materials and Methods
F. pumila cultivated on the University of Florida campus at
Gainesville were used as stock plants. Leaf bud cuttings (LBClamina, petiole and 2.5 cm piece of stem with attached axillary
bud) were rooted under an intermittent mist system in a medium of sterilized mason sand maintained at 24°C with a 2
hr night light interruption previously described (4). Juvenile
LBC were harvested after 21 days and mature cuttings 42
days after experiments were initiated. All growth regulators
were applied as aqueous sprays with 0.25 ml/liter of surfactant,
emulsifiable A·C polyethylene and octyl phenoxy polyethoxy
ethanol (Plyac).
In an experiment to establish optimum IBA concentration
required for rooting, cuttings were taken in November and IBA
applied at 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, and 10,000 mg/liter
to juvenile and 2000, 2500, 3000, 4000, 5000, und 10,000
mg/liter to mature LBC at time of insertion. The design was a
randomized complete block with 4 replications and 40 cuttings
per treatment.
To characterize growth regulator effects at different root
development stages a factorial experiment was initiated in May
with 2 fom1S (juvenile, mature LBC) x 2 IBA pretreatments
(control, treated) x 3 growth regulators (IBA, PBA, GA3) x 3
application dates. An IBA spray of 1000 mg/liter was applied
to half the juvenile cuttings and 3000 mg/liter to half the
a
100
90
80
II
"k '
70
II
x/
60
Gセ@
/Mature
°' !50
-g
.s
y
I
40
I
0:::
I
I
;:.e 30
I
0
I
I
20
I
I
I
10
I
C I
0
Y"'
o' b
1b lb io' Aッセ@
I
100
IBA (mg/Ix 102 )
Fig. 1. Effect of IBA on rooting in juvenile nnd mature !ear b\ld cutting;
of Ficus pumlla. Points with same lower caso letters me not signifi·
cnntly different.
mature material at the time of insertion. Growth regulators
were then applied after 3, 5, or 7 days for juvenile and 3, 9
or 15 days for mature cuttings: IBA at 1000 mg/liter for juvenile and 3000 mg/liter for mature cuttings, 1000 mg/liter
PBA and 3000 mg/liter GA3 for both types. The design was
a randomized complete block with 4 replications and 32 cuttings per treatment. To determine stage of ARF 10 cuttings
of each treatment combination were selected at each of the
3 time intervals and fixed in fonnalin-acetic acid-ethanol (FAA)
in vacuo, dehydrated in ethanol-tertiary butyl alcohol series
and embedded in Paraplast-plus. Blocks containing stem pieces
with one surface exposed were soaked in distilled water in
vacuo for S days to soften tissues prior to sectioning. Serial
cross and longitudinal sections were cut at 8 and 11 urn and
strained with safranin and fast green.
Cuttings were measured for percent rooting, root number,
and root length (average of 3 longest roots) and rated on a quality scale of 1 to 4 with 1 = no rooting, 2 "' small root system,
3 = intermediate root system and 4 == extensive root system.
Results
Optimum IBA concentration. IBA treatments stimulated
ARF in both juvenile and mature LBC (Fig. 1, 2, 3, 4). At
high IBA levels root length was reduced in both forms (Fig.
3) and root quality in juvenile cuttings was poor (Fig. 4).
Best horticultural responses were obtained in juvenile material treated with 1000-1500 mg/liter and mature cuttings
treated with 2000-3000 mg/liter IBA considering root number,
length and quality (Fig. 2, 3, 4). The performance of IBAtreated juvenile LBC was better than IBA-treated mature
cuttings.
Hormonal effects during rooting stages. Percent rooting in
lBA pretreated cuttings was unaffected by additional IBA at
any of the 3 time intervals after insertion, however, root length
was reduced in all treatments (Table 1, 2). In juvenile LBC
92
receiving no IBA pretreatment, later IBA application increased
rooting in all dates (Table I), but in mature cuttings only the
first or second application period was stimulatory (Table 2).
GA3 reduced root length and quality in IBA-pretreated
cuttings (Table 1, 2 and Fig. S, 6). In juvenile cuttings without
IBA pretreatment, GA 3 reduced root length (Table I), bul
had no effect on mature LBC without IBA pretreatment (Table
2).
14
a
12
10
Juvenile
x
0 8
K//\7
z
...
0
0
6
0:: 4
/
セ@
/
,,
2
/
/
I
xy
'll - .!'
y
yz
Mo tu re
0
o
5
1o 15 20 30 40 50
IBA (mg/I x 10 2
too
)
Fig. 2. Effect of IBA on root number in juvenile and mature leaf bud
cuttings of Ficus pumila. Points with same lower case letters are not
significantly different.
J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci. 105(1):91-95.
1980.
7
"
,....
6
I
Mature
v'
wx I
I
I
I
I
-4
I
E
I
I
\xy
,.
IBA
pretreatment
(mg/liter}
'/CJ
Vfty
3
c:
I
abc: I
2
':/
a
+セ@
Rooting
(%)
No.
roots
Root
length
(cm)
Root
quality
scalez
IBA
(1000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 5
day 7
GA3
(3000 mg/liter}
day 3
day S
day 7
\
I
Ql
_J
0
\
I
O>
Growth regulator
post
treatment
\
I
0
:E
Table 1. Adventitio11s root formation in juvenile leaf bud cuttings of
Ficus pumila treated with 3 growth regulators at 3, 5, or 7 days
after expeiiment initiation. Half the cuttings were pretreated with
1000 mg/liter IBA.
w w
0
0
lOOaz
lOOa
lOOa
9.Se
11.0bcde
10.3cde
1.1 bcde 2.6de
1.1 bcde 2.&cd
l.Obcde 2.Sde
3lc
28c
34c
0 .7h
O.Sh
I.Oh
0.8cde
0.7de
l.5bcd
l.3gh
l.3gh
1.Sg
Od
2Sc
2Sc
31c
Oh
0.9h
0 .9h
O.Bh
Oh
l.2bcde
1.4 bed
1.7b
l.Oh
l.3gh
l.3gh
l.3gh
lOOa
lOOa
lOOa
12.?b
15 .2a
12.4bc
l.5bc
1.3bcd
l.Obcde
3.0abc
3.2ab
2.7cd
lOOu
lOOa
lOOa
10 .8bcd
9.0ef
10.2de
l.3bc
1.5bc
l.7b
2.7cde
2.8cd
2.Sbcd
PBA
(1000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 5
day 7
Control
Juvenile
0
1000
0
5
IBA
10 15 20 304050
(mg/I x 10 2 )
100
Fig. 3. Effect of IBA on root length in juvenile and •nature leaf bud
cu ttlngs on Ficus /IL11t1ila. Points with same lower case letters are
not 8ignil'ic11ntly different.
IBA
(1000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 5
day 7
GA3
(3000 mg/liter)
day 3
duy 5
day 7
PDA
(1000 mg/liter)
PBA effectively limited ARF in IBA-pretreated cuttings
when applied during the first or second time intervals {Tables
I, 2). In juvenile LBC the greatest inhibition occurred during
the first time interval which coincided with increased cambial
nc tivity associated with the dedifferentiation phase of ARF
{Table 3). PBA caused less inhibition of ARF the second appli·
day 3
day 5
dny 1
Control
38c
66b
88n
lOOa
l.3h
S.3g
7.2fg
II.9bcd
0.Sef
1.4gh
1.3cde
2.0f
l.2bcde· 2.3ef
2.5a
3.4n
z Rao t quality sen le range from 1 to 4 with I = no root system, 2 = small
root system, 3 =intermediate root system and 4 =extensive root system.
YMean separation in columns by Duncan's multiple range test, 5% level.
4
cation period when root initials and primordia were first ob·
served. Half the LBC rooted by the third interval (Table 3);
thus PBA application at this time did not affect % rooting
but did reduce root number, length and quality. In mature
cuttings PBA treatment at first application period completely
inhibited ARF (Table 2) when no cambial activity was ob·
served. PBA was Jess effective in inhibiting ARF during second
application when cambial activity was first observed (Table 2,
4). Root length and quality were reduced with PBA applica·
tion at any period, but had no effect on % rooting or number
during the third treatment period.
PBA reduced rooting in juvenile cuttings not pretreated
with IBA when applied during the first treatment period when
neither root initials nor prirnordia were observed (Table 1, 3).
In mature cuttings PBA had no statistical effect on rooting;
however, none of the treated cuttings formed roots, nor were
root initials or primordia observed (Table 2, 4).
a
セS@
c
::J
0
.,....
0
£2
0
5
10 15 20 30 40 50
2
IBA (mg/I
x 10
100
)
Fig. 4. Effoct of IBA on root quality in juvenile and mature leaf bud
cuttings uf Ficus pumila. Points with same lower case numbers are
not significantly different.
J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci.
105(1):91-95.
1980.
Discussion
Mature F. pumila cuttings did not root as efficiently as
juvenile material. Thus, IBA-treated mature cuttings required
higher exogenous auxin levels and longer time to obtain
93
Table 2. Adventitious root formation in mature leaf bud cuttings of
Ficus pumila treated with 3 growth regulators at 3, 9, or 15 days
after experiment initiation. Half the cuttings were pretreated with
3000 mg/liter IBA.
IBA
pretreatment
Growth regulator
post-
(mg/liter)
treatment
0
No.
Root
length
Root
quality
roots
(cm)
scalez
13.labc
8.6cde
3.4ab
3.0ab
2.7fg
1.0cde
3.0ab
2.7abc
1.7efg
44efg
41fg
2.0fg
1.9fg
38fg
1.lfg
0.7de
0.8cde
0.8cde
1.4gh
Oh
Og
Og
Og
1.5fg
Oe
Oe
1.0h
Rooting
(%)
IBA
(3000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 9
day 15
84abcz
94ab
53cdefg
GA3
(3000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 9
day 15
PBA
(1000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 9
day 15
3000
Control
IBA
(3000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 9
day 15
GA3
(3000 mg/liter)
day 3
day 9
day 15
Oh
Oh
22gh
Blabcdz 11.lbcd
lOOa
16.la
9lab
66bcdef
SOdefg
66bcdef
13.7ab
1.Sfgh
l.Sfgh
I.Oh
Oe
1.0h
l.lcde
1.3gh
2.lbcd
3.lab
2, 1bed
3.2ab
2.7abc
2.6bcd
8.4cde
6.0ef
l.6cd
2.0def
1.7cd
l.8efg
7.3de
2.2bc
2.lcde
Fig. 5. Effect of IBA, GA3 and PBA on advontil.iuui; root fu1ma1i 1111
when 。ーャゥ・セ@
at 3 time intervals tu Juvcnifo lcnr hud 」オエQゥョセウN@
fh1p'1
Pretreated with (IBA). (bottom) No prctrcatmc111 with IBA.
PBA
(1000 mg/liter)
day 3
day9
day 15
Control
Oh
28gh
75abcde
94ab
Oe
Oe
l.Oh
1.6fg
9.2bcde
1.0cde
1.3cde
1.3h
13.3abc
3.8a
2.2cde
3.2a
ZRoot quality scale ranged from 1 to 4 with I = no root system, 2 =
small root system, 3 =intermediate root system and 4 =extensive root
system.
YMean separation in columns by Duncan's multiple range test, 5% level.
maximum rooting (3) than juvenile LBC. Mature cuttings may
have lower endogenous auxin levels and/or other endogenous
chemicals needed to stimulate root initiation. When ARF was
measured on a daily basis (3), IBA-treated mature cuttings
rooted slower than juvenile LBC, but equalled juvenile controls
by day 20, giving strong evidence that endogenous auxin levels
were acting as a possible limiting factor in root initiation.
JBA increased ARF in both juvenile and mature cuttings by
stimulating initiation of cambial activity, root initials and
primordia, which agrees with reports that auxins trigger early
formation of root primordia (6). However in F. pumila, application of auxin above the optimum level reduced root length
and quality indicating that primordia elongation was decreased.
In both juvenile and mature cuttings the combination of
IBA/GA3 retarded rooting after primorida were differentiated,
since % rooting was not influenced but root length and quality
were reduced. The conflicting reports on exogenous gibberellin
influence on rooting ( 1, 7, 12) may be related to species dif.
ferences. Our results agree with Hassig (7) who reported that
initiating primordia were least affected by GA3 but that cell
number was reduced in older established primordia which was
deleterious to root formation.
94
Fig. 6. Effect of IBA, GA3 1111<1 Pill\ on 11dvun1lli11us root 1'ormu11"11
when applied ut 3 time inlcrvuls Lo mature leaf' llud cullinAs. ltupt
Pretreated with IBA. (bottom) No prclrculmcn Lwilh JB/\.
J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci.
l05(l):91 -95.
1%0.
Table 3. Stage of adventitious rnot formation of juvenile leaf bud cuttings of Ficus pumila at 3 time intervals.
Treatment
IBA pretreatment
at (1000 mg/liter)
di1y 3
day 5
day 7
No IBA pretreatment
day 3
day 5
day 7
Increased
cambial
activity
Root
initials
Root
primordia
Rooting
(%}
yes
yes
yes
none
yes
yes
none
yes
yes
so
none
yes
yes
none
none
yes
none
none
yes
0
0
20
z Roat quality scale ranged from 1 to 4 with l
4 =extensive root system.
= no
0
0
No.
roots
0
0
6.2
0
0
0.4
Root
length
(cm)
0
0
0.7
0
0
0.5
Root
quality
scalez
1.0
1.0
1.6
1.0
1.0
1.2
root system, 2 =poor root system, 3 ==intermediate root system and
Table 4. Stage of adventitious root fonnation of mature leaf bud cuttings of Ficus pumila at 3 time intervals.
Increased
Treatment
IBA pretreatment
nt (3000 mg/liter)
clay 3
day 9
day IS
No IBA pretreatment
dny 3
day 5
day 15
Rooting
activity
Root
initials
no11e
yes
yes
none
none
yes
none
none
yes
20
none
none
yes
none
none
none
none
none
none
0
0
0
cmnbfal
ZRoot quu!ity scale ranged from 1 to 4 w.ith .I
4 =extensive root system.
Root
primordla
(%)
0
0
No.
roots
Root
length
(cm)
0
0
1.7
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0.5
Root
quality
scalez
1.0
1.0
1.2
1.0
1.0
1.0
= no root system, 2 =poor root system, 3 =intermediate root sYstem and
The rooting inhibition of PBA on juvenile and mature F.
1mmila concur with reports that cytokinins inhibit preinduction phases of rooting ( l 2) with a loss of inhibitory effect at
later stages (6).
Differences in adventitious rooting between juvenile and
mnture cuttings may be partiully attributed to endogenous
uuxin levels, since lower IBA levels were required for optimal
rooting in juvenile compared to mature LBC. However, other
factors such us uuxin/cy to kin in and auxin/GA 3 ratios, cofactors
and inhibitors may be involved, since exogenous IBA applications did nut overcome root formation differences between
IBA-pretrentecljuvenile vs. mature tissue.
Literature Cited
l. Briun, P. W., H. G, Hc111111i11g, and D. Lowe. 1960. Inhibition of
rooting of cuttings by gibbcrellic ncid. An11. Bol. 24:408-419.
2. Condit, I. .1. 1969. Ficus: the exotic species. Univ. of Calif. Div.
of Agrl. Sci. llcrke!oy.
3. Duvio.1, F. T., Jr. 1978. A physJologicul and histological analysis
of mlvcntitious root formation in juvenile and mature cuttings
ol' flms 1111111ilo L. PhD l)isscrtntlon . Univ. of Florida, Gainesville.
4. _ _ _ _ and J. N. .Joiner. 1978. Adventitious root formatio11 in
tluuc cuttlnj\ types of fi'iclls /IUmi/a L. Proc. Intern. Plan/ Prop. Soc.
J. Amer. Soc. Hort. Sci.
105(1):91-95.
1980.
28:(in press).
5. Eriksen, E. N. 1974. Root formation in pea cuttings III. The in·
t1uence of cytokinln at different developmentul stages. Pl1ysiol.
Plant. 30:163-167.
6.
and s. Mohammed. 1974. Root formation in pea
cuttings II. [nfluence of indole-3-acetic acid at different developmental stages.Physiol. Plant. 32:158-162.
7. Hassjg, B. E. 1972. Meristematic activity during adventitious root
promordium development. Plant Phyriol. 49:886·892.
8. Mohammed, S. and E. N. Eriksen. 1974. Root formation in petl
cuttings IV. Further studies in the influence of indole-3-acetic acid
at different developmental stages. Physiol. P/a11t. 32:94-95.
9. Mullins, M. G. 1970. Auxin and ethylene in ART in Phaseo/ui;
aureus (Roxb.). Plant Growth Substances XIV. Proc. Symp. Canberra, Australia.
10. Shiboaka, H. 1971. Effects of lndoleacetic, p-chloro-phenoxyisobutyric and 2, 4, 6·trichlorophenoxyacetic acids on three phases
of rooting in Azukia cuttings. Plant Cell Physiol 12: 193-200.
11. Slrcar, P. K. and S. K. Oiatterjee.1974 . Physiological 1111d biochemical
changes nssociated with adventitious root formation in Vigna hypo·
cotyl cuttings: IL Gibberellin effects. Plaut Propagator 20(2): 15-22.
12. Smith, D. R. and T. A. Thorpe. 1975. Root initiation in cuttings of
Pi1ws radiata seedlings. II. Growth regulator interactions. J. Expt.
Bot. 26:193-202.
95
Aerial view Bailey Nurseries. Photo: Bailey Nurseries
Reprinted with permission from the Bailey Nurseries. Originally printed in the Combined
Proceedings of the International Plant Propagators' Society, Vol 57, 2007
Auxin Application via Foliar Sprays©
Samuel R. Drahn
Bailey Nurseries, Inc., 1325 Bailey Rd., Saint Paul, MN 55119 USA
Email: sam.drahn@baileynursery.com
INTRODUCTION
Over the past six years Bailey Nurseries, Inc. has been delivering
IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) to unrooted cuttings in a couple of ways;
manual basal dips before planting and overhead sprays after planting is
complete. Careful, repetitive trialing has shown us that many of the
varieties respond equally as well to being sprayed with water soluble IBA
after sticking instead of the traditional hand dip method that we have
used for years. In both our Minnesota and Oregon propagation facilities
the shift in delivery method has been driven by a desire to reduce our
employees' exposure to chemicals, develop a more stream lined and
sanitary approach to propagation and to reduce the labor costs
associated with rooting ho rm one applications. All of these goals need to
be met while maintaining our standards of high quality, well rooted
cuttings. Using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts has helped us reach
these objectives with many of our taxa.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Cuttings harvested from our different production areas or bought from
other suppliers are stored in our cold storage facilities and queued for
planting. Our coolers are maintained at approximately 34 °F and 90% RH.
By using water soluble IBA after sticking instead of dipping by hand this
time in storage is reduced. After the cuttings are planted into the
propagation trays or beds a single application of between 250 and 2000
ppm Water soluble IBA is made. This is done a variety of ways
depending on the size of the area to be treated. For small areas a
backpack type sprayer is used. For large areas a hose and reel type
sprayer with or without a boom style irrigator is utilized. The product
literature recommends to "spray the solution evenly over the cuttings until
drops go down to the media". We believe delivering 1 L per 60ft2
sufficiently meets these guidelines. Approximately 25-30 gal of solution is
applied to 6000 ft2. Mirroring our existing traditional IBA rates has been
the starting point for our water soluble IBA trial rates. The product
literature suggests using only distilled or de-mineralized water for these
treatments to avoid precipitation problems. We feel this is not practical on
such a large scale and have used well water since we began exploring
this IBA delivery method.
Our results have shown that making these applications within 24 h of
sticking is critical to our success. Typically the IBA is applied at the end of
each day or first thing next morning when the light levels are low and the
plants misting requirements are at am inim um. When cuttings have been
treated with IBA during frequent misting cycles in the day no decline in
efficacy has been noted. Applications that have been made several days
after sticking have resulted in reduced final percentages and weaker,
slower rooting in general.
The label identifies a zero re-entry interval and perm its applications to
be made while people are working in the houses. Waiting to treat the
cuttings with IBA until the crews have finished planting and have left the
house is a precautionary step that we feel more comfortable with. Each
application is made by a specially trained and licensed pesticide
applicator. Using only a select group of applicators reduces the number
of employees who are in contact with chemicals. This helps ensure
consistency and accuracy and limits the amount of chemicals our
employees are exposed to. The required personal protection equipment
is long sleeve shirt, long pants, shoes, socks and waterproof gloves.
Posting the application with signage and/ or cones is unnecessary.
Implementing any new technique requires time and patience to be
successful. The switch from manual dips to overhead sprays has proven
time consuming but rewarding. Each variety needs to be thoroughly
tested before we feel comfortable making a change to our production
practices. The first trials consist of a 12-ft2 section of cuttings to test for
phytotoxicity and efficacy. Misting requirements have not changed with
the use of this type of method. Blocks of trial plants are within the dipped
sections, and are all given the same amount and duration of mist during
the root initiation process. The cuttings are all weaned from mist at the
same time. As our familiarity with the Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts on
a particular variety increases so does the size of the trial. If the first trial
proves effective the trial area will be increased in proportion to the size of
the crop, usually about 10%. After a second season of positive results the
trial area will norm ally be increased to approximately one quarter to one
half of the crop. Multiple crop locations and sticking times allow us to
expedite the trial process. It is only after three separate trials have
occurred with successful results that the practice can become standard in
our production methods.
RESULTS
As our experience with this application method has grown so has the
use of Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts. Familiarity and repetitive success
has given us comfort with this product. Over the last several years the
percentage of crops treated with IBA after sticking has risen steadily. This
past season the amount of cuttings treated with IBA after sticking
increased sharply. Currently 95% of our softwood crops in MN that call
for IBA are receiving overhead IBA sprays after sticking. 100% of our MN
evergreen propagation is now slated to be treated this way also. In OR
we treated approximately 20% in 2007. We anticipate the percentage of
cuttings treated with IBA after sticking in 0 reg on to increase significantly
as our trial numbers and confidence in this method build
Table 1. Cuttings treated v. application method from 2003 to 2007 in MN
Treatment
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
Hand dipped (%)
99.62
95.6
91.95
Overhead spraying (%)
0.38
4.4
5.08
86.1
13.82
5.16
94.84
Using water soluble IBA after sticking has streamlined our
propagation process dramatically by reducing the number of employees
needed to treat cuttings with IBA. In 2007 approximately 8 million cuttings
were propagated in MN from May 15th to Aug 15th. 79% required some
form of IBA treatment. Another 5.2 m ii lion were produced in OR, of which
100% required an IBA treatment. Crews of 8-10 people have historically
been responsible for treating these cuttings with IBA during this time.
Using IBA after planting has reduced handling and storage time in the
cooler and has freed up members of our propagation team to do other
tasks. During the winter and at other times of the year we run similar
crews for evergreen propagation and other softwood propagation
schedules.
This method has also given us some piece of mind regarding stem
burn and the possibility of contamination. Cuttings treated with overhead
IBA applications are not exposed to alcohol. Concerns over the years on
whether or not exposing the stems to solutions containing alcohol has
contributed to some of the rot on some of the cuttings are moot. By using
a formulation of IBA that is water soluble we can eliminate the possibility
of alcohol burning or drying out the basal portion of the stems. Using
water soluble IBA after the cuttings have been placed in the greenhouse
provides us some comfort by eliminating the possible cross
contamination issues associated with dipping cuttings in a stock solution.
The transfer of pathogens in a communal solution of hormones is not a
concern with th is method.
A majority of the crops treated with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
react identically to cuttings treated with traditional IBA. Rooting and top
growth are monitored throughout the season and carefully evaluated at
harvest time to determine root mass and overall plant quality. Acer,
Berberis, Cornus, Diervilla, Euonymus, Forsythia, Hydrangea, Juniperus,
Lonicera, Philadelphus, Physocarpus, Rhus, Rosa, Spiraea,
sym phoricarpos, Syringa, Thuja, Viburnum and Weigela crops are all
large genera Bailey Nurseries grow that respond well to overhead IBA
applications. They are all currently, or are scheduled to be receiving
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts as their sole form of IBA in MN. Currently
all Hydrangea, Spiraea and sym phoricarpos are treated with IBA after
sticking in OR. Clethra, Cornus, Forsythia, Hamamelis, llex,
Philadelphus, Viburnum, and Weigela are all in the final stages of trial
and should be added to the treat all after sticking list for the 2008 season
in OR.
While similar rooting time and subsequent root and shoot
development is most commonly seen, differences have been noted on
several varieties. This varies from slight, subtle differences to results that
have caused us to discontinue water soluble IBA and continue with the
traditional propagation method. Some varieties have shown a preference
to the traditional hand dip method in conventional IBA and some vice
versa. Several varieties have exhibited growth differences with the over
the top spray technique in multiple trials. Am elanchier, Aronia, Rosa,
sym phoricarpos, et al. tend to slow down their vegetative growth early on
following the overhead application method. Vegetative growth and
flowering is usually delayed by approximately one to two weeks. This is
not discernible later on as plants are grown for several months after
rooting and mowed back repeatedly to maintain height and promote
branching before harvest. This season Forsythia and Philadelphus crops
treated with IBA after sticking in OR looked better than the hand dipped
control. Cuttings within the trial blocks initiated roots more quickly and
responded with darker green, more vigorous top growth. Root mass
increased significantly also. Some Viburnum varieties have developed
adventitious aerial roots from leaf nodes above the soil line when Hortus
IBA Water Soluble Salts are applied to the cuttings. During the first two
seasons all varieties of Betula cuttings in OR responded well to the
overhead applications of IBA. This season many petioles were twisted at
the 500 and 1000 ppm rates. An explanation as to why this seasons' trial
acted differently than in previous years escapes us.
In multiple trials many of the Pru nus and Rhododendron varieties
have not rooted as well when treated from above after sticking at our
Oregon facilities. Root initiation has been slowed and final percentages
have been significantly lower in previous trials. Rhododendron and
Prunus cuttings in OR have now been removed from the future trial list.
Prunus besseyi 'Pawnee Buttes' responds well to overhead IBA
applications in MN and currently receives IBA in this manner.
Switching IBA delivery from the traditional hand dip method to
overhead applications trades relatively high labor costs and low chemical
costs for relatively high chemical costs and low labor costs. Treating
cuttings with IBA after sticking is helping us reduce hormone application
expenses. Wages for 8-10 people working 8-h days, over a ten week
period add up quickly. Conversely using kilograms of water soluble IBA is
expensive too. One 6000 ft 2 greenhouse contains approximately 90,000
softwood cuttings when spaced at 2-%". It takes approximately 8 people
3.75h, or 30-labor hours to treat this many cuttings with IBA by hand.
Applying water soluble IBA after the cuttings have been stuck takes an
applicator approximately 1h to prepare, transport to and from the
application site, apply and clean the spray equipment when finished.
Chemical costs of water soluble IBA for an equivalent number of cuttings
at 750 ppm equal approximately $74. The cost of traditional IBA needed
to dip 90,000 softwood cuttings is approximately $16.
Our next step to further reduce the costs associated with the
application of rooting hormones has been to apply lesser rates of water
soluble IBA. For the past two seasons we have invested a lot of time
evaluating the effect of halving many of the rates we comm only use.
Surprisingly we have noticed very little difference in the outcome of these
trials. All cuttings are given the same quantity and duration of mist and
are grown side by side the cuttings that have been treated with a full rate.
It has taken the same time for plants to begin root initiation and the
subsequent growth has developed at a similar pace. This year we have
looked at reducing rates even further by quartering the initial rate. If the
normal rate was 1000 ppm we have begun treating the cuttings with 250
ppm after sticking. To date these trials have looked very promising also.
When the trails are complete we hope to have established an optimal IBA
rate for each of the varieties we grow. The goal of these trials is to
produce the highest quality rooted cutting with the least amount of IBA
possible.
DISCUSSION
Using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts has helped us reduce our
employee's exposure to chemicals. Limiting the number of employees
who apply hormones in the greenhouses to a small group of trained,
licensed chemical applicators gives us a more consistent, accurate
application that we feel more comfortable.
By applying water soluble IBA after sticking our labor hours
associated with treating cuttings with IBA have declined significantly. Our
cuttings now spend less time in cold storage and in the preparation room
where problems associated with lengthened exposure to temperature,
humidity and/ or handling can occur. Plants are not grouped and dipped
together into a solution where pathogens may be transferred. Cuttings
are not exposed to alcohol which may contribute to cuttings drying out
and possibly being burned or damaged.
Significant financial savings have resulted from using this method of
IBA delivery. Spraying the cuttings after they have been stuck instead of
dipping them before frees up planting crews for other work. On average,
treating a crop with Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts after sticking has
allowed us to save approximately $0.038 per ft2. Further rate reduction
trials have looked promising and may help increase these savings in the
future.
Hortus IBA
Water Soluble Salts®
(20%)
Plant Rooting Hormone
Dissolve Sa/ts in Water to Make Rooting Solutions.
Use by FOLIAR and BASAL Methods on Plants that
can be Propagated from Cuttings. Use on Annual,
Perennial & Woody Ornamental Plant Cuttings.
Ingredients:
Active ingredients
lndole-3-butyric acid 20.0%
Other ingredients 80.0%
Total 100.0%
Registered by
Hortus USA Corp., NY NY 10011
Made in Holland
EPA Reg No. 63310-22
EPA Est No. 63310-HL-001
Net Weight: 2 Pounds, 4 Ounces (1 Kilo)
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN
CAUTION
See Attached Label for First Aid and Precautionary Statements
<£>
Use Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts (20%) to make rooting solutions.
The Salts dissolve easily in water to over 100,000 ppm IBA. Use the
solutions to propagate new plants from cuttings. Treated cuttings
are expected to produce uniform roots all around the basal end.
PPE revision
12/2015
PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS
HAZARDS TO HUMANS AND DOMESTIC ANIMALS.
CAUTION
Causes moderate eye irritation. Harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Avoid contact with eyes, skin,
ingestion or inhalation. Avoid breathing dust (vapor or spray mist). Wash thoroughly with soap and water after
handling. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Applicators and other handlers must wear: long sleeve shirt, long pants, shoes, socks and waterproof gloves. For
exposure in enclosed areas or outdoors, use a dust/mist filtering respirator (MSHA/NIOSH approval number prefix
TC-21 C, or a NIOSH approved respirator with any N, R, P or HE filter) when mixing solutions , or when spraying
solutions on cuttings by the Spray Drip Down Method. When treating cuttings by the Quick Dip, Long Soak and Total
Immerse Methods, use of a filtering respirator is not required. No PPE is required after cuttings are inserted into
media.
USER SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
Users should: Wash hands before eating, drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco or using the toilet. Remove
clothing/PPE immediately if pesticide gets inside. Then wash thoroughly and put on clean clothing.
Remove PPE immediately after handling this product. Wash the outside of gloves before removing. As soon as
possible, wash thoroughly and change into clean clothing.
FIRST AID
Classification of Pesticide: Plant Growth Regulator
If in eyes
> Hold eyes open and rinse slowly with water for 15-20 minutes
> Remove contact lenses, if present after the first 5 minutes then continue rinsing eye
> Call a poison center or a doctor for further treatment or advise
If on skin or clothing
>Take off contaminated clothing
> Rinse skin immediately with plenty of water for 15-20 minutes
> Call a poison center or a doctor for further treatment or advise
If swallowed
>
>
>
>
If inhaled
> Move person to fresh air
> If person is not breathing call 911 or an ambulance, then give artificial respiration,
Call a poison center or a doctor for further treatment or advise
Have person sip water if able to swallow
Do not induce vomiting unless told to do so by the poison control center or doctor.
Do not give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
preferably by mouth to mouth, if possible
> Call a poison center or a doctor for further treatment or advise
NOTE TO PHYSICIAN: May cause moderate eye irritation which will last a short time. This product does NOT
contain any petroleum, caustics or active solvent products
Have the product container or label with you when you call a poison control center or doctor or going for treatment.
You may call 800-325-3055 or 314-770-0717. 7:30AM-5PM CST Mon-Fri or the National Pesticide Information
Center (NPIC) at 1-800-858-7378
You may also call 800-325-3055 or 314-770-0717 for an MSDS. 7:30AM-5PM CST M-F
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS
For terrestrial uses: Do not apply directly to water, or to areas where surface water is present or to intertidal areas
below the mean high water mark. Do not contaminate water by cleaning of equipment or disposal of equipment wash
waters or rinsate.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with labeling. For any requirements
specific to your State or Tribe, consult the State or Tribal agency responsible for pesticide regulation.
AGRICULTURAL USE REQUIREMENTS
Use this product in accordance with its labeling and with the Worker Protection Standard, 40 CFR 170. This Standard
contains requirements for the protection of agricultural workers on farms, forests nurseries, and greenhouses, and handlers
of agricultural pesticides. It contains requirements for training, decontamination, notification, and emergency assistance. It
also contains specific instructions and exceptions pertaining to the statements on this labeling about personal protective
equipment and restricted-entry intervals. The requirements in this box only apply to the uses of this product that are covered
by the Workers Protection Standard (WPS).
Do not apply this product in a way that will contact workers or other persons, either directly or through drift. Only protected
handlers may be in the area during application.
THE RESTRICTED-ENTRY INTERVAL !REil FOR THIS PRODUCT IS "O" HOURS.
RATE DETERMINATION
A wide solution rate range is indicated for this product. Your ideal rates
will vary according to specific plant variety, season, quality of the
cuttings, and local growing conditions. Prior to large scale production,
test a few plants at several rates within the range. If foliar application
causes phytotoxicity, try basal applications and/or decrease rates. Use
the lowest rate to produce the desired effect.
PREPARING A HORTUS IBA WATER SOLUBLE SAL TS® (20%)
SOLUTION USING WATER
1) Weigh the required amount of Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts.
Measure by weight not volume.
2) Use tap water at about 65-90F; measure less then the final
volume.
3) Mix: dissolve Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts in the water.
• If precipitation occurs with tap water then dissolve in distilled,
demineralized, or filtered water.
• Do not dissolve Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts in solvents other than
water.
4) Add water to the mixing container to bring the solution to the final
volume.
5) Apply the solution by the selected method.
6) After use, dispose of the solution as described in the 'Storage and
Disposal' statements on this label.
• For the Total Immerse and basal methods, dispose of solutions
between plant lots to avoid cross contamination.
• Stock solutions can be made in any concentration, to over 100,000
ppm IBA, using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts mixed in water.
AMOUNT OF HORTUS IBA WATER SOLUBLE SAL TS®
REQUIRED
• Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts contain 20% IBA.
• 1 gram technical IBA= 5 grams Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
• Note: 1 gram =0.035 ounce
LIQUID VOLUME CONVERSION:
liters to gallon: grams Salts /liter x 3.78 =grams Salts /gallon
LITERS: To get 1000 ppm IBA: dissolve 5 grams of
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts in water to make 1 LITER
GALLONS: To get 1000 ppm IBA: dissolve 19 grams of
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts in water to make 1 GALLON
HOW TO MAKE RATES FROM 100 TO 10,000 PPM IBA USING
HORTUS IBA WATER SOLUBLE SALTS®
Weight of HORTUS IBA WATER
SOLUBLE SALTS
ppm IBA
grams per
liter of water
grams per
gallon of water
100
0.5 grams
1.9 grams
200
1.0
3.8
300
1.5
5.7
400
2.0
7.6
500
2.5
9.5
600
3.0
11.3
700
3.5
13.2
800
4.0
15
900
4.5
17
1,000
5.0
19
5,000
25.0
95
10,000
50.0
190
PROMOTE ROOTING OF PLANT CUTTINGS
Use to propagate new plants from cutting, from those easy to root to the
most difficult to root.
EASY STEPS
• Take plant cuttings, usually stem cuttings .
• For woody cuttings usually wound by making a 3/4" long notch at basal
end.
• Apply solutions to plant cuttings by the methods listed below. (Do not
apply the dry Salt powder to the plant cuttings.)
• Take care of cuttings as appropriate for the plant variety. Control
watering, temperature, humidity, light and other environmental factors.
Observe and control external factors such as insects and fungus.
•Use the minimum concentration to achieve results; excess
concentration may inhibit root formation.
BASAL METHODS FOR USE ON CUTTINGS IN THE GROWING
SEASON AND ON DORMANT WINTER CUTTINGS
BASAL LONG SOAK METHOD
Use on cuttings in the growing season and
winter dormant cuttings.
• Immerse basal end of cuttings approximately
1" in solution for 12 to 48 hours.
• Stick immediately or store.
Trial Rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts
Trial Rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Trial Rates
Hard to root annuals and perennials
25-100
Herbaceous cuttings
50-200
Woody ornamental cuttings, grape, roses
50-400
QUICK DIP METHOD
Use on cuttings in the growing season and
winter dormant cuttings.
• Immerse basal end of cuttings approximately
1" in solution a few seconds.
•Stick immediately or store.
Trial Rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts
Trial Rat es are ppm IBA using H0 rt us IBA W at er SOU
I bl e S a Its
Trial Rates
Annuals, soft perennial, tender cuttings from
ornamental plants, tropical house plants
80-200
Herbaceous, perennials, pot roses cuttings
150-1500
Difficult to root herbaceous, perennials,
tropical hose plant cuttings
500-1500
Softwood cuttings
500-1500
Hardwood cuttings
500-2000
Difficu It to root hardwood cuttings
(Avoid high rates by using the Basal Long
Soak Method)
2000-10,000
FOLIAR METHODS FOR USE ON LEAFY CUTTINGS IN THE
GROWING SEASON
TOTAL IMMERSE METHOD
Use on leafy cuttings in the growing season
• Total immerse the cuttings in the solution for
about 5 seconds. A basket is useful.
• Stick immediately or store.
SPRAY DRIP DOWN™ METHOD
Use on leafy cuttings in the growing season
• Stick cuttings.
• Spray the solution on leaves and stems until
the solution drips down into media.
TRIAL RATES FOR THE TOTAL IMMERSE
AND SPRAY DRIP DOWN™ METHODS
Trial Rates are ppm IBA using Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
Trial Rates
Annuals, perennials, chrysanthemums
80-250
Herbaceous and hard to root perennial plant
cuttings
250-1500
Woody ornamental cuttings
300-1500
IMPROVE PLANT GROWTH
1i.
.•,
MNセB
Use on rooted plants and leafy plant cuttings in
the growing season to develop uniform crops,
when propagating plants from cuttings after
sticking by any method, or when transplanting.
•Method: Spray Drip Down™ Method: Spray the
solution onto the leaves of plants until the
solution drips down.
• Rates: Use the Spray Drip Down TM Method trial rates listed above.
Use the lowest concentration to produce the desired effect.
• Frequency: Weekly or until the required results are achieved.
•Trials: Do small trials prior to doing large scale production.
STORAGE AND DISPOSAL
Do not contaminate water, food , or feed by storage and disposal.
Pesticide Storage
Store in a cool dry place under lock and key. Post as a pesticide area . Always store pesticides
in the original container. Store away from food , pet food , feed, seed, fertilizers , and veterinary
supplies . Place liquid formulations on lower shelves and dry formulations above .
Pesticide Disposal
To avoid wastes , use all material in this container by application according to label directions. If
wastes cannot be avoided , offer remaining product to a waste disposal facility or pesticide
disposal program (often such programs are run by state or local governments or by industry) .
Container Handling
Nonrefillable container. Do not reuse or refill this container. Triple rinse as follows: Empty the
remaining contents into application equipment or a mix tank. Fill the container 1/4 full with water
and recap . Shake for 10 seconds. Pour rinsate into application equipment or a mix tank or store
rinsate for later use or disposal. Drain for 10 seconds after the flow begins to drip . Repeat this
procedure two more times. Then offer for recycling if available , or puncture and dispose of in a
sanitary landfill or by incineration . Do not burn unless allowed by state and local ordinances .
WARRANTY
It is warranted that th is product conforms to the chemical description on the label thereof and is
reasonably fit for purposes stated on such label only when used in accordance with the di rections under
normal use conditions . It is imposs ible to eliminate all risks inherently associated with the use of this
product. Crop injury, ineffectiveness or other unintended consequences may result because of such
factors as weather conditions , presence of other materials , or the manner of appl ication all of which is
beyond the control of Rh izopon b .v. or Hortus USA Corp . To the extent cons istent with applicable law ,
Rhizopon or Hortus USA shall not be liable for consequential , special or indirect damages resulting from
the use or handling of th is product. To the extent consistent with applicable law , all risks shall be
assumed by the buyer. Rhizopon or Hortus USA make no warranties
Manufactured by
Hortus USA Corp, PO Box 1956, New York NY 10113
support@hortus.com
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts
are available from horticultural
distributors. For distributor
ordering or referral contact
Master Distributor: Phytotronics
sales@phytotron ics. com
314-770-0717
Technical Support & Articles:
rooting hormones.com
ON-LINE CALCULATOR:
Find the measured weight of
Hortus /BA Water Soluble Salts
for any ppm or liquid volume
http://hortus.com/calculatesalts.htm
Hortus
Plant Propagation
from Cuttings
A Guide to Using Plant
Rooting Hormones by
Foliar & Basal Methods
Third Edition
Plant Propagation from Cuttings produces new plants
identical to stock plants. Rooting Hormones are essential to
develop roots on cuttings. This Guide describes five
successful foliar and basal propagation methods. The
methods use the rooting hormones Hortus IBA Water
Soluble Salts® (rooting solutions) & Rhizopon® AA (rooting
solutions & dry powders).
The World's Finest Rooting Products by
Hortus USA Corp.
support@hortus.com
rootinghormones.com
Hortus IBA Water Soluble Salts & Rhizopon AA Plant Rooting Products
are available from favorite horticultural suppliers.
For distributor purchasing & distributor referral contact master distributor:
Phytotronics 314-770-0717 sales@phytotronics .com
Written by Joel Kroin, Pres. Hortus USA Corp.
REV 1212015