Clonex Rooting Gel & Propagation Products
Clonex is the most widely used rooting gel in professional propagation -- a water-based, high-rooting-hormone gel that seals the cut stem, delivers IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) hormone directly to the wound site, and maintains the cutting in a moist, sterile environment during root development. Unlike liquid hormone solutions that wash off quickly, gel formulation stays in contact with the cut for the full duration of the rooting process. Clonex is used across propagation trays, clone machines, and direct-to-media applications in hydroponic and soil-based operations.
Clonex Product Line
The core product is Clonex rooting gel, available in 50ml, 100ml, and 300ml sizes for operations from hobby to commercial volume. The Clonex Solution is a rooting nutrient formula designed to be used as a propagation tray soak or mist -- it provides the correct nutrient balance for cuttings before roots are established, reducing transplant shock when moving clones to the vegetative stage. Used together, gel plus solution creates a complete propagation system from cut to rooted clone. Browse all cloning and propagation supplies including IHORT starter plugs and propagation rack systems.
Application Method
Take cuttings at a 45-degree angle below a node using clean, sharp scissors. Dip the cut end directly into Clonex gel -- do not pour gel into a separate container and contaminate the source jar. Gently insert the gel-coated cutting into pre-moistened starter plugs (rockwool, rapid rooters, or IHORT plugs), place in a humidity dome, and maintain 75-80 degrees F with 80-90% RH until root emergence. Bottom heat from a heat mat accelerates root development. Transplant when roots are visible through or exiting the plug.
Clonex FAQ
How do you use Clonex rooting gel correctly?
Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy mother plant, making a clean 45-degree cut just below a node. Remove lower leaves to reduce transpiration. Dip the freshly cut stem directly into the Clonex gel jar -- do not pour gel into a separate container as this contaminates the source. Shake off any excess. Insert the coated stem immediately into a pre-moistened starter plug (rockwool cube, rapid rooter, or IHORT plug). Keep the tip submerged 1-2 inches deep. Maintain in a humidity dome at 75-80 degrees F and 80-90% relative humidity until roots are visible. Root emergence typically occurs within 7-14 days depending on species and conditions.
What is Clonex Solution and when do I use it?
Clonex Solution is a rooting nutrient formula for use in propagation trays and misting systems during the cloning phase. Cuttings do not yet have roots to absorb nutrients through the conventional root-zone pathway, but they can uptake small amounts through their cut stem and, when misted, through leaf stomata. Clonex Solution provides a balanced low-EC nutrient profile appropriate for this stage. Use it to moisten starter plugs before inserting cuttings, add to reservoir in aeroponic clone machines, and as a foliar mist. Transition to a standard seedling or vegetative nutrient program after roots are established.
Does Clonex gel expire?
Clonex has a shelf life of approximately 2 years from manufacture when stored in a cool, dark location with the lid sealed tightly. Degraded gel may appear discolored, separated, or have reduced viscosity. The IBA hormone concentration decreases over time, reducing rooting success rates. Purchase sizes appropriate for your propagation volume -- the 50ml jar is right for hobby growers doing occasional cloning, the 300ml jar is more economical for operations taking large batches of cuttings regularly.
