How to Tell If Your Cannabis Clones Are Rooting Successfully

Are your clones thriving—or failing? In the first 14 days after sticking cuttings, it can be hard to tell. But certain signs reveal whether your clones are successfully rooting… or silently struggling.

Here are 7 clear indicators to help you troubleshoot your propagation tray with confidence.

1. Stem base swelling (good)

Swelling at the base of the cutting is a great sign. This usually means callusing has begun, and roots are soon to follow. You may also notice a white or opaque bump forming—this is root primordia developing.

2. Leaves perking up (good)

Clones often droop in the first 48 hours. If they perk back up by Day 3–5, it shows they’re adjusting well and beginning internal repair. It’s a reliable early sign that rooting is on track.

3. Resistance when tugged (good)

Gently pull (once!) on the stem around Day 7–10. If you feel resistance, roots are anchoring into the media. If the cutting slides out easily, it may not be rooting yet.

4. Slimy, darkened stems (bad)

If the base of the stem turns brown or mushy, it’s likely rotting due to overwatering, poor airflow, or contaminated media. These clones rarely recover and should be removed to avoid spread.

5. Yellowing from the bottom up (bad)

Some top leaf yellowing is normal as clones reallocate nutrients—but yellowing from the bottom is often a sign of stress or breakdown. It could mean the clone isn’t rooting and is starting to decay.

6. Visible root tips (great)

By Day 7–10, you may see white roots poking from the bottom or sides of the media. Once roots are ½" to 1" long and branching, the clone is ready for transplant.

7. Wilting after dome removal (bad)

If a clone collapses immediately after you remove the dome—even for a few minutes—it’s likely not rooted. Rooted clones can support themselves in lower humidity. Non-rooted clones still rely on the dome for survival.

Rooting timeline: know what to expect

Not sure what’s normal on Day 3 vs. Day 10? Use our free timeline tool to stay on track:

Rooting Timeline Guide — see what to expect every day from Day 1 to Day 14.

Recommended supplies for better cloning

• Propagation trays, domes, and vents
• Rooting gels and powders
• Starter plugs and cubes
• Cloning machines and tents

Cloning doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Learn the signs, use the right tools, and let your clones do the rest.

Written by the GrōHaus team — helping growers root with confidence, one cut at a time.