If you’re trying to propagate plants, encourage new roots on citrus tree branches, or grow cuttings from fruit trees or other greenery, there’s an incredibly simple and effective homemade rooting solution you can make with ingredients from your kitchen. This natural rooting water is versatile, easy to prepare, and works wonders on all types of plant material—from soft herbaceous stems to woody cuttings.

Why Use a Natural Rooting Water?

Rooting cuttings can sometimes be tricky, especially with certain types of fruit trees and woody plants. While commercial rooting hormones exist, many gardeners prefer natural alternatives that are both safe for the environment and gentle on plants. Natural rooting waters stimulate root development, improve moisture absorption, and increase the chances of successful propagation.

The Secret Ingredient: Lentils

One of the best natural sources of rooting hormones is lentils. Lentils contain a significant amount of auxins, which are plant hormones that promote root growth. When soaked, lentils begin to germinate and release these auxins into the water. By using this lentil-infused water, you’re creating a nutrient-rich environment that encourages root formation.

How to Make Natural Rooting Water

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of dry lentils

  • 4 cups of water (room temperature)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the Lentils:
    Place the lentils in a bowl and add the water. Let them soak for about 8 to 12 hours. During this time, the lentils will begin to swell and initiate the germination process.

  2. Blend or Mash:
    After soaking, transfer the lentils and the soaking water into a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and pulpy. If you don’t have a blender, you can mash the lentils manually, but blending is more effective at releasing the auxins.

  3. Strain the Liquid:
    Use a fine sieve or cheesecloth to strain the mixture, collecting the liquid in a separate container. This lentil water is your natural rooting solution.

  4. Storage:
    Keep the rooting water in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days.

How to Use the Rooting Water

This homemade rooting solution can be used in several ways depending on what you’re propagating:

  • For Soft Cuttings (herbs, small houseplants):
    Soak the base of the cuttings in the rooting water for a few hours before planting them in soil or water.

  • For Woody Cuttings (citrus branches, grape vines, etc.):
    Let the cuttings sit in the rooting water for 12 to 24 hours. The longer exposure allows the auxins to penetrate tougher plant tissues.

  • As a Soil Soak:
    After planting the cuttings in soil, water them with the lentil rooting water. This continues to stimulate root development as the cutting establishes itself.

  • As a Foliar Spray (optional):
    You can also lightly spray the leaves and stem with diluted rooting water to enhance uptake.

Best Types of Plants for This Rooting Water

This natural rooting method works well on a variety of plants, including:

  • Citrus trees (lemon, orange, lime)

  • Fig trees

  • Grapevines

  • Rose bushes

  • Tomato suckers

  • Mint, basil, and other herbs

  • Decorative plants like pothos, coleus, and hydrangeas

Tips for Success

  • Always use fresh cuttings. They should be healthy and free from disease.

  • Cuttings should be taken using a sharp, sterile tool to avoid damaging the tissue.

  • Remove excess leaves, especially on woody branches, to reduce moisture loss.

  • Keep the cuttings in a humid, shaded area while they root.

  • Use clean containers to prevent fungal growth.

Conclusion

This natural rooting water made from lentils is a sustainable and highly effective way to boost root formation in a wide range of plant species. Whether you’re working with ornamental plants or fruit trees, this DIY auxin-rich solution can dramatically improve your propagation success. Give it a try and see how nature supports nature, with no need for synthetic chemicals.

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