Why Won't My Clones Develop Roots?

[SmokyMtnToker]

I built an aeroponic cloner from plans here on IC, and took clones from my Mandala plants. After a week, most were dying and none had even begun to sprout roots.

I am using RO water...ph of 6...with just a tiny bit of root starter liquid fert. mixed in. The spray was on 24/7 and I thought maybe it was too much water, so I have it 15 minutes on and 15 off.

Now I am switching all surviving clones to soil to save them, and I want to use the aero unit but not until I know it will work. The jets inside seem to cover the bottoms the the clones fully. Any ideas? Many thanks.

 

[xinsanewickedx]

did you use any clone gel or powder?

 

[exploziv]

In my experience mandala genetics usually develop roots quite fast. I only put them in tap water and have them ready for transplant into soil after around 10 days.

 

[xinsanewickedx]

if i dont use any clone gel or anything i have pretty good luck with rooting in water,though i have done clones for a few years

 

[habeeb]

ok, not sure on a homemade aero but

keep the spray on, no need for off, the stems will not rot, it only makes them grow roots from the stem in aero cloners
look at the unit when on, is it making a nice even half mist / half water spray all around?
I suggest no nutes, clone do just great in water, if adding anything add seaweed as its a natural root enhancer
the end of the stem should always have a droplet of water on it, if not you have problems

 

[fatigues]

This is more likely to be a tech problem than a plant problem. Pics of your kitbashed cloner would help.

Are you sure your res and lid on your aerocloner is light tight?

Light gets in - there will be no roots.

 

[Mr. Greengenes]

habeeb is right. Keep the spray on all the time and no nutes. I personally prefer a system that immerses the stems in the water. I tried an aero cloner and got 'slime', which went away as soon as I put the stems back under the water.

 

[SmokyMtnToker]

Thanks for the help...I am going to empty the water and start over with RO water and no nutes at all. I used a liquid rooting fert..but very little..my main guess is that the spray is not even inside..I will check it further.

I will get a pic of the cloner and post it here...including while its on...that should help tell..I am desperate to get clones going as my bloom room is opening up as I harvest..I will post a new thread opn my results with my current Mandala grow tonight on the BUD PIX thread and here as well on the Mandala thread...I have a #1 that turned purple..beautifull..I cut her last night but have many pics..I have 6 mother plants with plenty of clone sites but need a reliable way to get roots.

I will take the advice given above and will try again...Ill keep you posted. Thanks again.