A viral gardening hack claims that inserting plant cuttings into a raw potato can speed up rooting, using the vegetable's moisture and nutrients. Proponents argue that potatoes contain salicylic acid, a compound thought to encourage root formation.
The method involves taking a stem cutting and inserting it into a hole drilled in a raw potato, then planting the whole potato in soil. The theory is that the potato keeps the cutting hydrated and releases nutrients as it decomposes.
A gardener tested the hack with a rose cutting and a pothos plant. The pothos produced only a small amount of root growth, while the rose cutting collapsed before any roots formed.
Despite claims of salicylic acid, research indicates that this compound actually suppresses root formation. Clean cuts, fresh water, and good light remain the most reliable propagation methods, without the need for vegetables.
