Quote Originally Posted by neceros
Hmm. I doubt rooting gel is a hoax, probably just speeds up and better ensures root taking.
It's not a hoax. It stimulates root production. It also seals the end of the stalk. One concern when cloning is the formation of a tiny air bubble in the stalk. It will kill the clone. Cloning gel seals the end so that no bubble can form. I'm guessing this could be accomplished with something else.

Did / do you scrape the side of the stalk when starting the clones? This provides quicker rooting sites.

I'm traveling right now but can dig out a tutorial when I'm back if you are interested or just search here.