There’s something magical about growing roses from cuttings, taking a simple stem and watching it flourish into a stunning, fragrant bush. If you’ve ever admired a friend’s rose bush and wished you could have the same in your garden, you’re in luck.
Propagating roses from cuttings is a rewarding and cost-effective way to expand your rose collection. It may take patience, but with the right techniques, your cuttings will root successfully and bloom into gorgeous roses.
Let me share a natural rooting hormone and a homemade fertilizer. These organic boosters give your cuttings the best possible start without relying on synthetic chemicals.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Rose Cutting
The best time to take rose cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the stems are flexible but not too soft. Avoid using stems with fully bloomed flowers; instead, go for semi-hardwood cuttings with a few leaves and a healthy green appearance.
Look for a stem about the thickness of a pencil, around 6–8 inches long. It should have at least three sets of leaves and no signs of disease. A strong, healthy cutting is the foundation of success.
Step 2: Preparing the Cutting for Rooting
Once you have your ideal cutting, trim it just below a leaf node (the swollen part of the stem where leaves grow). This is where new roots will form.
Remove the bottom leaves, leaving only the top two sets. If there are any flower buds, snip them off to direct all the plant’s energy toward root development.
Now, here’s where our secret weapon comes in – aloe vera gel. Instead of using a store-bought rooting hormone, I prefer a natural approach.
Aloe vera contains enzymes that encourage root growth and protect the cutting from infections. Simply dip the cut end into fresh aloe vera gel before planting. This method has given me fantastic results time and time again.
Step 3: Planting the Cutting
Now it’s time to choose a well-draining pot or container filled with a light, airy soil mix. A blend of potting soil, sand, and perlite works beautifully. If you prefer, you can plant the cutting directly in the garden, but make sure the soil is loose and well-aerated.
Using a stick or pencil, make a small hole in the soil, then insert the cutting about 2–3 inches deep. Gently firm the soil around it to keep it stable. Water lightly to settle the soil.
Step 4: Creating the Perfect Growing Environment
Roses love warmth and humidity, and young cuttings need an environment that mimics a greenhouse. One of my favorite tricks is to cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag or a cut-off plastic bottle to retain moisture.
Just make sure it doesn’t touch the leaves by using small stakes or sticks can help keep the plastic off the plant.
Additionally, you should place the pot in a bright but indirect sunlight location. Direct sunlight can be too intense for tender cuttings, causing them to dry out before they root.
Step 5: Caring for Your Rose Cutting
Patience is key when growing roses from cuttings. For the first few weeks, keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Overwatering can cause rot, while letting the soil dry out completely can kill the cutting before it has a chance to root.
After about four to six weeks, you can gently tug on the cutting if you feel resistance, congratulations! That means roots have formed.
At this stage, gradually introduce the cutting to more direct sunlight to help it grow stronger.
Step 6: Boosting Growth with Banana Peel Fertilizer
Once your cutting has rooted and started producing new leaves, it’s time to give it an extra boost.
Instead of store-bought fertilizers, I rely on an easy homemade banana peel fertilizer. Banana peels are packed with potassium and phosphorus, both of which promote strong roots and vibrant blooms.
Here’s my simple method:
- Chop banana peels into small pieces and soak them in water for 24–48 hours.
- Strain the liquid and use it to water your rose cuttings once every two weeks.
Alternatively, bury chopped peels directly in the soil near the roots for slow-release nutrients. This natural fertilizer strengthens the young plant, encouraging it to grow lush and healthy.
Step 7: Transplanting Your Young Rose Plant
After about three months, your new rose plant should be strong enough to move to its permanent home. Choose a sunny spot with at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Next, dig a hole slightly larger than the root system, gently remove the young rose from its pot, and place it into the hole. Backfill with nutrient-rich soil and water thoroughly.
Keep an eye on the plant during the first few weeks after transplanting. Regular watering, a layer of mulch to retain moisture, and occasional feeding with your homemade banana peel fertilizer will keep your young rose happy and thriving.
