---
title: "I have some water props going and they are having a very hard time…"
description: "I have some water props going and they are having a very hard time starting any roots! I’m pretty sure the water I’m using isn’t filtered, so should I move to…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/GpJkJG2qS7KZ7LpSwQwhSg/652da7756da87bbc4db396eb"
community: "Propagating & Sowing"
author: "Saarah Aamilah"
published: "2023-10-16T21:13:25.554Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v2/cloudinary/global_data/communities/propagatingAndSowing.jpg"
---

[Community](https://getplanta.com/community.md) / [Propagating \& Sowing](https://getplanta.com/community/GpJkJG2qS7KZ7LpSwQwhSg.md)

# I have some water props going and they are having a very hard time…

_Posted by Saarah Aamilah on 2023-10-16_

I have some water props going and they are having a very hard time starting any roots! I’m pretty sure the water I’m using isn’t filtered, so should I move to something like distilled or brita water? Also, are there any suggestions about a good rooting hormone/ root starter I could use? Any and all help and suggestions appreciated:)

## 3 comments

### Mullein commented on 2023-10-16

What plants are you trying to prop? Some are suuuuper slow such as snake plants and zz plants. Some people say a filter helps to get chlorine out, but I haven’t had an issue using tab water personally. I like using SuperThrive and/or keiki paste as prop boosters because they don’t have serious safety warnings like some rooting powders do. I’m a bit overly cautious. I also like SuperTrive because you only need like a drop per water prop container. Keiki paste sort of a petroleum jelly type texture so it can be put directly on the prop and will resist washing off in water. The oil used is lanolin based though, so just a heads up if your have a wool allergy

#### NewerHorizons777 replied on 2023-10-17

It definitely depends on what you’re trying to propagate. With some plants, it just takes a long time while you can help others along in different ways.

### Iplantevenrightnow🪴 commented on 2023-10-17

I use distilled or filtered water, but I have harder water, and some plants can be sensitive to it.

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