Aeroponic Cloning Tips
Always use a sharp, sterile cutting instrument like scissors, a razor or pruning shears.
For best results, dip cuttings into a rooting gel, such as EZ-CLONE Rooting Compound. Doing so promotes quicker, more abundant root growth.
When applying rooting gel to the cuttings, be sure to coat the bottom and never, ever, ever dip directly into the bottle (unless you plan to use its entirety on one plant). This helps in avoiding cross-contamination and disease.
Always, at the start of each cycle, be sure the aeroponic system is clean, free of bacteria, mold or any other lingering organic material. Not doing so can compromise the cycle before it even begins.
To help maintain a clean, root-friendly cloning environment, combine Clear Rez (or similar bacteria/pathogen control solution) with your water in the reservoir. The anti-fungal, anti-pathogen, anti-bacterial solution can be used throughout all stages of the process and allows for higher water temperatures (between 77 and 85 degrees) to be maintained.
Always start off with a healthy, pest and disease resistant mother plant. This can not be overstated. She should be at least two months old and exhibit smells and tastes you enjoy.
Keep the water at an acceptable pH level. We recommend 6.0.
Speaking of pH, do not use organic pH up or down, as it tends to fluctuate more than synthetic solutions.
The more additives you use, the more likely you are to encounter an issue.
If using a light, dont go too big or bold. Florescent T-12s, about 18 inches away from the plants, are more than sufficient.
When preparing the stem cuttings, remove any extra, unnecessary leaves and cut the big boys in half. This allows the plant to focus its energy on root development instead of keeping those leaves alive.
Dedicate enough time for the job at hand; when you rush the process, you are more likely to make mistakes.
Keep expectations realistic. Successfully cloning 100 percent of your cuttings, while possible, isnt always probable.
Like a relationship, dont over think, over analyze or become paranoid if things are not progressing as quickly as you’ would like. Once your clones are in their homes, let them be. Check after a few days, but dont freak out if they dont sprout roots right away. No one likes someone always checking up on them, and plants feel the same way.
Don’t try cloning yourself, you won’t be very successful. These aeroponic growing systems are meant for plants, not humans.
