superthrive seems to work

[Ray]

Both SuperThrive and K-L-N (and many other products) contain synthetic rooting hormones, and there is no question that they have an impact on root growth.

That, however, does not make them into a spectacular addition to everyone's cultural regime, and additions beyond the periodic "shot" or very large doses adds nothing.

Think of hormone supplementation like flipping a light switch:

• The hormone addition to your fertilizer solution is your finger pushing the switch up, resulting in the light (initiation of root growth) being turned "on".
• Putting upward pressure on the switch lever again (additional dosing of hormones) or pressing on it harder (larger doses) does not make the light brighter!
• Once time has passed, the effect of the hormone fades, and it's equivalent to someone having turned the light off, giving the hormone another opportunity to be effective.

[grasshopper]

So, if I'm understanding you correctly, instead of including ST or K-L-N with every watering, is it best to add to every "nth" watering? What is the recommended "nth" watering?

[Wrebbitrocks]

Originally Posted by Ray

Both SuperThrive and K-L-N (and many other products) contain synthetic rooting hormones, and there is no question that they have an impact on root growth.

That, however, does not make them into a spectacular addition to everyone's cultural regime, and additions beyond the periodic "shot" or very large doses adds nothing.

Think of hormone supplementation like flipping a light switch:

• The hormone addition to your fertilizer solution is your finger pushing the switch up, resulting in the light (initiation of root growth) being turned "on".
• Putting upward pressure on the switch lever again (additional dosing of hormones) or pressing on it harder (larger doses) does not make the light brighter!
• Once time has passed, the effect of the hormone fades, and it's equivalent to someone having turned the light off, giving the hormone another opportunity to be effective.

you always have the best explanations for everything, i like how its compared to everyday things. very straightforward. as for the st, yes i only used it once because i was wary of any root burn and/or deformities happening. also the vial is small and should run out soone because im going to give it to all the plants so that they can build up a root system to survive the winters better.

[Ray]

Grasshopper, if you are paying attention to growing your plants right, you don't need it at all! However, I would think a once-a-month does of a drop or two per gallon of fertilizer is OK.

Damage or flower deformation only occurs with levels approaching a teaspoon per gallon at every watering; I'd not worry about it at reasonable usage rates.

The hormones are quite unstable, so you should be sure to but fresh stock and keep it cool and dark. I have begun refrigerating the stuff I buy for resale.

[Wrebbitrocks]

i read that in one of your posts i think, ray. so i keep it in the fridge towards the back where its cooler and darker