To propagate roses, the most common and easiest method is by taking stem cuttings, especially softwood cuttings in early to mid-spring. Here is a detailed guide:
How to Propagate Roses from Cuttings
1. Select and Prepare Cuttings
- Choose healthy, green stems from the current year's growth, about 5 to 9 inches long, with at least three leaf nodes and about the thickness of a pencil.
- Cut at a 45º angle just below a node.
- Remove flowers, flower buds, and all but the top two sets of leaves to help the cutting focus energy on root development
2. Prepare the Cutting Base
- Make a fresh cut at the bottom just below a node.
- Optionally, slice about 1/4 inch up the bottom of the stem, splitting it into quarters to encourage rooting.
- Moisten the bottom half of the cutting and dip it into rooting hormone powder to stimulate root growth
3. Plant the Cuttings
- Use a pot filled with a well-draining medium such as a mix of potting soil and perlite or sand.
- Make a hole 3 to 4 inches deep and insert the cutting so at least two nodes are buried. Firm the soil around it gently.
- Water thoroughly
4. Create a Humid Environment
- Cover the pot and cutting loosely with plastic wrap or a plastic bag supported by a stake to avoid contact with leaves, which helps retain moisture and prevent fungal disease.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Place in bright, indirect light away from direct sunlight
5. Root Development and Transplanting
- Roots usually form in about two weeks to two months depending on conditions.
- Check root formation by gently tugging the cutting; resistance indicates roots are developing.
- Once roots are well established and new leaves appear, transplant the rose to a larger pot or into the garden.
- It may take 2 to 3 years for the new plant to flower
Additional Tips
- Hardwood cuttings can be taken in mid-autumn to late winter but take longer to root.
- Avoid taking cuttings when the plant is heavily blooming as energy is focused on flowers.
- Some roses are grafted or protected by Plant Breeders’ Rights, so propagation might not produce identical plants or be legally permitted for sale
This method is reliable and widely used by home gardeners to propagate roses successfully. This summary incorporates expert advice and practical steps from multiple gardening sources to ensure effective rose propagation
