Why Isn’t My Cutting Rooting? (And How to Fix It)

Why Isn’t My Cutting Rooting? (And How to Fix It)

Category: The Dirt on Plant Care

You snipped a healthy stem, placed it in water, and waited... and waited… and waited. Still no roots? Don’t stress. Rooting cuttings takes patience—but a few simple tweaks can make a huge difference.

Here’s how to troubleshoot those stubborn snips.

🚫 Common Rooting Roadblocks

🕶️ Not enough light
Cuttings need bright, indirect light to trigger root growth. A dark corner won’t cut it.

💧 Water too dirty or too cold
Change water every few days and use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the cutting.

🌡️ Temps too low
Most cuttings want warmth (65–75°F). Cold = slow (or no) root action.

🌬️ Humidity is too low
Some cuttings (like Calatheas or Peperomia) root faster in high humidity.

🌱 Wrong propagation method
Not all plants root best in water! Some prefer moss, perlite, or soil.

🌟 How to Get Roots Going

✅ Place your cutting in bright, indirect light
✅ Switch to moss or soil if water isn’t working
✅ Use a humidity dome or plastic bag to trap moisture (but allow airflow)
✅ Keep temps cozy
✅ Add Root Boost to your water or moss—seriously, it makes a big difference
✅ Use a Clear Nursery Pot if you’re rooting in soil, so you can see progress without disturbing roots

Bonus Root Tip

Always snip below a node (the bumpy bit where roots form). And make sure your cutting has at least one healthy leaf to keep it fueled while it roots.

Still stuck?
You’re not doing it wrong—some cuttings just take their sweet time. Keep experimenting, and give your cuttings the best shot with Root Boost, Signature Grow Mix, and our easy-to-use Clear Nursery Pots.