Anyone know if Rootone powder loses potency over time?

20 years ago

I've been using the same little packet of rootone rooting powder for the past 3 or 4 years. I only make a handful of new plants each year, so the stuff has lasted. My last couple of efforts, though, have seemed to take a bit longer and not as many stems rooted successfully. It could be a number of factors...like taking them in summer instead of spring or fall, poor choice of potting mix, the specific rose varieties, or whatever. But one factor I am wondering about is the rooting hormone itself. There is no expiration date listed on the packet, but it is also several years old. Does anyone here know for sure if the hormone remains chemically stable, or if it loses potency and should be disguarded? Thanks.

Oh, incidentally, about that potting mix question, I just took the suggestion from some other threads here and got some coconut coir and planted my first batch of stems two days ago. I'm excited to see if they root more quickly as several have reported.

Featured Answer

mamab4287_aol_com

15 years ago

Ive been using the same little package since august 78 it still does the job for me.

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Comments (7)

drasaid
20 years ago
Toss that packet, and make yourself some willow water! That's only good overnight but it is free.
I use Dip and Grow, which I sincerely hope does not go bad. With my luck it probably does.
mike_in_new_orleans
Original Author
20 years ago
Is Willow Water made with willow branches? If so, I don't have any of those growing around here.
But does Rootone actually expire? Or are you just saying throw it out to be sure I'm using something fresh?
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zachslc
20 years ago
My understanding is that it goes bad rather quickly once exposed to air. This is just what I have heard. Don't take it as fact.
melva
19 years ago
I have been told that rooting hormone degrades rather quickly once it is exposed to light, heat, and/or air...
zachslc
19 years ago
So if I have some that is still in a sealed packet can I keep it for a while as long as it stays sealed? Thanks.
oregongardengal
15 years ago
I have been using the from the same white plastic bottle for 5+ years. I keep it in the greenhouse (jar sealed) so it is exposed to heat etc... was wondering just the other day if it does go bad/flat and if so when, but so far working just fine (keeping fingers crossed!) :-)