What is the purpose of using rooting hormones?

Using rooting hormones serves a specific and vital function in plant propagation, particularly with cuttings. The primary purpose of these hormones is to stimulate root growth, making it easier for cuttings to establish themselves and thrive. When a cutting is taken from a parent plant, it initially lacks a root system, which is essential for water and nutrient uptake. By applying rooting hormones, the biochemical processes that encourage cell division and differentiation into root cells are triggered, enhancing the likelihood that the cutting will successfully develop roots.

This rooting process not only improves the success rates of propagation but also enables plants to establish themselves faster in their new environment. Unlike enhancing flower color or promoting leaf growth, which relate to other aspects of plant development, the application of rooting hormones is focused primarily on supporting the early growth stages of new plants derived from existing ones. Additionally, these hormones do not prevent pest attacks, which involves entirely different management practices.