If you apply root-promoting chemicals to the basal 1/2 inch of cuttings before sticking them into the medium, you can enhance rooting of some plants. These chemicals are primarily composed of synthetic auxins (plant hormones); most commonly, IBA (indolebutyric acid) and/or NAA (naphthaleneacetic acid) are used. Commercially prepared talc formulations in various concentrations, suited for easy-, moderate-, or difficult-to-root plants, are available at most garden centers. Some talc formulations of auxins also contain a fungicide to help prevent disease during rooting. Be careful; if you apply the talc powder too heavily, it may burn off the base of some cuttings.
When using these products, remove a small amount of the talc powder from its container and place it into a smaller container. Then dip or dust your cuttings from that portion. This protects future cuttings by preventing any potential disease contamination from the cutting to the hormone formulation.
