How to Use Root Hormone When Transplanting

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Things You'll Need

  • Shovel

  • Root hormone powder

  • Large plastic food storage bag

  • Bucket

  • Root hormone tablets (optional)

Root hormone stimulates root growth.

Root hormone is a powdered substance that is applied to plants to stimulate root development. It is most often applied to cut stems to encourage root development where none currently exists. However, root hormone can also be applied to trees, roses and other plants when you transplant them to a new location. The hormones stimulate the roots to grow faster, thus reducing the risk of transplant shock. It is especially helpful in plants that have had their roots pruned or cut.

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Step 1

Dig up the existing plant from the ground, making sure to keep the shovel at least 1 to 1 1/2 feet away from the base of the plant. Grasp the base of the plant and lift it out of the ground.

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Step 2

Brush away as much of the soil from the root ball as possible using your hands. Rinse the roots off with water to moisten them and remove any remaining soil.

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Step 3

Fill a large plastic storage bag with approximately 2 to 3 tsp. of root hormone powder.

Step 4

Insert the plant's roots into the bag and gather the top of the bag above the plant's roots using your hands.

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Step 5

Shake the bag gently to completely cover the roots of the plant with the white hormone powder.

Step 6

Locate an appropriate planting location according to the plant's sunlight and soil needs. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the roots of the plant and approximately the same depth.

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Step 7

Insert the roots of the plant gently into the hole and try to avoid touching them, which will dislodge the root hormone. Fill in the hole with soil and pack it down firmly with your hands.

Step 8

Water the soil under the plant until it is completely saturated.

Tip

Root hormone also comes in tablet form. To use this type, place three tablets in a large bucket along with 1 liter of water and allow them to dissolve. Insert the plant roots into the mixture and allow them to soak for 10 minutes before planting.

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