From rose cuttings it is possible to successfully obtain new and beautiful specimens. As with many other plants, it is also important for rose cuttings to choose a sunny place with moist soil to plant them. By cutting strong, healthy branches right above a leaf stage you will achieve optimal growing conditions. Furthermore, the application of a rooting hormone on the cutting will favor the development of the roots which, keeping the new plant well hydrated, will grow strong and in no time.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Making a Cutting
Step 1. At a 45 degree angle, cut the branch above the first leaf stage
Once you have chosen healthy rose branches, you will need to cut them to a length of 15-20 cm. Use shears or a sharp knife to make a cut at a 45 degree angle exactly above the first leaf stage.
- Try to make the cuttings in the morning so they will be well hydrated.
- Thoroughly clean cutting tools with disinfectant alcohol before using them.
Step 2. Place the rose cuttings directly into the water
It is very important that the rose cuttings stay hydrated so they do not wilt before planting them. Once the cuttings are made, immediately place them in a cup containing water at room temperature. Leave them there until you are ready to move them, although it is best to plant them in the ground immediately after cutting them from the plant.
Step 3. Remove all leaves except the top leaves
Since you cut a rose branch located just above a stage of leaves, the ones present at the top are the only ones you will leave. The rest of the leaves on the branch should be removed using shears or a sharp pair of scissors.
Step 4. Apply a rooting hormone to the base of the rose cuttings
Although optional, almost everyone who creates rose cuttings uses some kind of powdered rooting hormone to help with root development. Make sure the base of the cutting is moist before dipping it into the dust, then give it a few light taps to remove the excess.
Once finished, wash the tools again with disinfectant alcohol
Part 2 of 3: Choosing Healthy Branches and Good Ground
Step 1. Choose a sunny spot to plant the cuttings
If you plan to grow cuttings outdoors, choosing where you are going to place them is very important. Choose a bright one that isn't exposed to direct sunlight so they don't wither. You can also place the cuttings in a pot or container, as long as it is wide and deep enough for them to grow.
- If you have a spot in the sun near a water drain or other water source, it will be a great choice and will ensure you always have moist soil.
- The container to be used must be at least 15 cm deep.
Step 2. Prepare the soil bed or container where you will place the rose cuttings
The soil intended for rose cuttings should consist of a mixture of sand and horticultural sand (or perlite). The soil mixed in this way will have draining properties; prepare it in advance and make sure you reach a depth of 10-15 cm.
- Preparation of the soil requires the use of a gardening tool such as a small digging fork or spade to break up the clods of the soil to make it soft.
- You can purchase horticultural sand and sand at a DIY store or online. A horticultural sandbag has a higher cost than regular sand. However, the price depends on the format you want to buy.
Step 3. Choose a strong and healthy rose branch
Try to make rose cuttings from long, strong and healthy branches, which means you need to avoid wilted and brown ones. To encourage root development, it is preferable that the cuttings have a tender stem, so choose young and flexible branches to be cut in late spring or early summer.
Part 3 of 3: Grow Strong Roots
Step 1. Plant the rose cuttings at any time of the year
Some people like to plant them in the cold months, others wait until early summer, but rose cuttings should be able to grow at any time of the year. However, remember that they will constantly need to be watered and therefore planting them in the summer (or if you live in a warm climate area) will dehydrate faster. For this reason, the rainy season may be the best choice.
Step 2. Using a stick or pencil, make the holes where you will place the cuttings
Use a stick or pencil to make holes in the ground where you are going to place each rose cutting. Make sure they are about 8-10cm deep and wide enough to avoid removing the powdered rooting hormone from the branch when you sink it into the ground.
Step 3. Place the cuttings in the ground
Gently sink the cutting into the ground several centimeters, or half of its length. Once you have it in place, flatten the soil around the branch using your hands.
To plant several cuttings, place them in several rows, at a distance of 15-20 cm from each other
Step 4. Keep the rose cuttings moist
The most important thing to be successful with rose cuttings is that they stay moist. Bathe them often, up to several times a day if the weather is hot. This will promote root development.
To make sure the soil stays moist, you can cover it with a plastic bag after watering the cutting. This way you will have created a small greenhouse for your roses
Step 5. Check the rose cuttings to make sure they are hydrated and taking root
Keep an eye on the cuttings to make sure they never run dry and are taking root. You can check that the roots are sprouting by gently pulling on the cuttings. After a week or 2 you should be able to feel some resistance, which is a sign that they are growing well.
