Propagating roses from cuttings is a deeply rewarding and almost magical way to grow new plants. It lets you hold on to the beauty of a beloved rose and raise it from your own hands.
Start by selecting a healthy and vigorous rose bush. Late spring to early summer is ideal. Choose a semi-hardwood stem—about the thickness of a pencil—and cut a 15–20 cm section just below a leaf node using clean, sharp pruning shears.
Strip off all the leaves except the top two. This allows the cutting to focus its energy on root growth rather than maintaining leaves. If you have rooting hormone, dip the cut end into powder or gel—it helps speed up the rooting process.
Prepare a small pot with light, well-draining soil—peat mixed with perlite works great. Moisten the soil until it’s damp but not soggy. Insert the cutting about 5 cm deep and gently press the soil around it.
Create a mini greenhouse by covering the pot with a plastic bag or wrap. Secure it with a rubber band, but leave a small gap for airflow to prevent mold. Place the pot in a bright area with indirect sunlight.
Keep the soil consistently moist and mist the inside of the cover occasionally to maintain humidity. After a few weeks or a couple of months, gently pull on the cutting.
If you feel resistance, roots have started to form—a wonderful sign. Once they are well-developed, transplant the rose into a larger pot or into the garden.
Gradually acclimate the plant to outdoor conditions—start with a few hours a day and slowly increase the exposure.
Once established, your rose will need plenty of light—at least six hours per day—and regular but moderate watering. The soil should be moist, not waterlogged. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer as needed.
Don’t be discouraged if some cuttings fail. Every attempt teaches you something new. Keep experimenting, and before long, your garden will be blooming with roses born from your own hands—a tender, living reward for your patience and care.
