- 1). It is possible to start a rose bush from the seed but definitely the most reliable method is to start your new rose bush from the cuttings. Its actually called propagation and has a much higher success rate than starting from the seed. The only way to ensure that a hybrid rose bush will grow true to their parent plant is through propagation. Keep reading below to find out how to start rose bush from cuttings.
I would suggest that you actually try multiple cuttings to increase your odds. Try starting out with 3 or 4 at a time. If you live somewhere where it is warm year round you can start in the fall but if you live somewhere with cold winters you will want to start in early spring.
How to select your cutting.
You want to begin by finding a stem that has about a six or more leaves on it and is about a foot long. You want to make sure the stem you select is from a newer growth and make sure that it has no mildew or other diseases spots on it anywhere. - 2). How to prepare your cutting.
Now you want to make sure and remove any leaves from the bottom six inches of the stem. If the cutting you selected has any buds make sure to remove them very carefully. Now cut a half inch slit in the bottom of the stem using a sharp knife. Make sure the knife is sharp so it does as little tearing as possible.
Now store your cutting in a plastic bag and put it in the refrigerator over night. The stem will keep the moisture in and help heal the cut much quicker. - 3). How to plant your cutting.
Now you are going to want to pick the spot you want to plant the cutting. You should have well drained and fertile soil. The best conditions would be somewhere where it will get plenty of sun but be sheltered from any cold winds.
Also try to pick a permanent spot. Rose bushes really do not do well with transplanting.
Ok now that you have your place go grab the cutting from your refrigerator. Take it out of the bag and dip the end of the cutting in some water then into some rooting hormone powder. Hormone powder is easy to find in gardening stores and will really help to make strong roots.
You want to make sure and plant the cutting about six inches into the ground and make sure to give it plenty of water. - 4). Should I use a Jar?
You can just allow your rose bush to grow. Some people swear that using a jar will help the rose bush grow. I have tried both ways and have had about the same results.
The idea behind the jar is that it will protect your rose bush and give it a green house effect. Never let the temp get above 70 degrees and remove the jar when you see your new leaves growing. Continue to water your new rose bush about once a week.
There ya go! I hope you learned how to start rose bush from cuttings!
previous post
next post