How to grow roses from cuttings

6/25/2024

Growing roses from cuttings is a rewarding and cost-effective way to propagate favorite rose varieties.

The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. For our area, that means now!

Begin by selecting a healthy stem from a mature rose bush that has recently flowered. The cutting should be about 6-8 inches long and include at least four to six leaf nodes. Use a sharp, clean knife or pruning shears to make a diagonal cut just below a leaf node. Remove the flowers and all but the top two sets of leaves to reduce water loss and stress on the cutting.
Once you have your cutting, prepare a small pot with a well-draining potting mix or a mixture of sand and perlite. Dip the cut end of the rose cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root development, then insert the cutting into the soil mixture, burying it about halfway. Firm the soil around the cutting to eliminate air pockets. Water the cutting thoroughly and place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.

It's essential to maintain high humidity around the cutting, so covering it with a plastic bag or using a humidity dome (i.e. a 2 liter plastic bottle with the bottom cut off) can be very effective. Ensure the plastic does not touch the leaves by supporting it with sticks or stakes.
Monitor the cutting regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. After a few weeks, you should see new growth, which indicates that roots are developing.

You can check for root growth by gently tugging on the cutting – if you feel resistance, roots have formed. Once the cutting has established a good root system (usually within 8-12 weeks) it can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining amended soil for planting.
Continue to care for the young rose plant by providing adequate water, fertilizing lightly, and protecting it from pests and diseases. With proper care, your rose cutting will grow into a healthy, blooming plant.

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