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Both Cottonwood Trees and Willow Trees produce their own rooting hormone, called auxin. This is probably not hard for most locals to believe as they can take over water ditches in a relatively short time. For gardeners who like to propagate through cuttings, or are interested in starting, this is a great alternative to buying expensive store-bought chemicals with the same benefits. Most plants that have veins in their leaves can be propagated through cuttings, though there are some exceptions.

How to make your own "Willow Water" in 5 easy steps!

1.) Take cuttings from a Willow tree. Use a sharp pair of pruners or scissors and cut twigs that are less then a half inch in diameter.

2.) Strip away all the leaves and throw the leaves away. Cut twigs into short pieces (1"-2" long) and place into a pail.

3.) Boil as much water as will cover your cuttings. Pour the boiling water onto the cuttings and leave overnight.

4.) Remove twigs. Save in an airtight container in the fridge until you are going to use.

5.) To use - Get the cuttings of the plants you want to root. Remove any leaves that would be in the rooting area (you don't want leaves to soak in the rooting hormone). Place your plant cuttings into the rooting hormone (only the bottom portion of the stems) and let soak for a couple hours, then plant in a pot with soil and care for as usual.

To share gardening tips and secrets, come to the next Sage and Snow Garden Club meeting at noon (note time change, please) November 17 in the Cooperative Extension Service Office at 621 South Pine, Pinedale.

Contact the Garden Club at Box 2280, Pinedale, WY, 82941, by email at sageandsnow@yahoo.com or call 307-859-8606.

Related Links Sage & Snow Garden Club