Propagation

Successful propagation is where every great grow begins. Getting cuttings to root strongly and seeds to germinate with vigorous development sets the foundation for everything that follows. At The Horticulture Company, we stock a complete propagation range — propagators, cloning gels, rooting media, seedling nutrients, humidity domes and propagation lighting — to give your plants the best possible start.
Seed Germination and Cutting Success
Seeds require consistent warmth (22–26°C), moisture and darkness to germinate. Use a quality heated propagator with a humidity dome to maintain these conditions precisely. Rockwool cubes, Root Riot plugs and Jiffy pellets are all excellent germination media — each provides the moisture retention and air gaps roots need to establish quickly. Pre-soak rockwool in pH 5.5 water before use to correct its naturally alkaline pH.
For cuttings, a clean cut at 45° below a node, dipped in a quality cloning gel or powder, dramatically improves rooting success. Remove lower leaves to reduce water loss and keep the cutting under an 18/6 or 24-hour light cycle with low-intensity T5 or LED propagation lighting. Maintain humidity at 80–90% in the first week, then reduce gradually as roots establish.
Propagation Media and Rooting Products
Choosing the right rooting medium is crucial. Rockwool offers excellent oxygenation and moisture retention and transplants directly into most hydroponic systems. Root Riot and Jiffy plugs are organic-based and preferred by many growers for their natural buffering and microbial activity. Rooting stimulants such as Clonex gel, Rootmaster and Rhizotonic contain plant hormones (auxins), amino acids and vitamins that accelerate root initiation. Apply directly to the cut stem and use a dilute solution in your propagator reservoir for maximum uptake.
Propagation Systems and Humidity Domes
From simple plastic trays with humidity domes to heated aeroponic cloners, we stock propagation systems for every level. Aeroponic cloners mist cuttings with nutrient solution, producing explosive root development — most cuttings root in 5–10 days. Standard heated propagators with 24-cell or 72-cell inserts are ideal for high-volume seed germination. We have been supporting UK growers through propagation challenges since 2017. Browse our full propagation range below.