Dreaming of a garden full of beautiful roses? You don’t need to buy new plants! With just one healthy rose stem, you can multiply your blooms and grow new rose bushes right at home.
Here’s a simple, proven method to grow roses from cuttings—even if you’re new to gardening.
What You’ll Need:
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A healthy rose stem (6–8 inches long)
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Sharp, clean knife or pruning shears
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Rooting hormone (optional, but increases success rate)
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Small pot or garden space
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Well-draining potting mix or soil
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Clear plastic bag or cut plastic bottle (for humidity)
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Water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Select the Right Cutting
Choose a green, firm stem from a rose bush that has recently bloomed. It should be 6–8 inches long, healthy, and free of disease.
2. Trim Your Cutting
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Cut just below a leaf node (where leaves attach to the stem).
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Remove any flowers or buds.
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Leave 2–3 leaf sets at the top, and strip off the lower leaves.
This helps the cutting focus on growing roots, not supporting foliage or blooms.
3. (Optional) Dip in Rooting Hormone
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel to encourage faster root development. This step is optional, but highly recommended for beginners.
4. Plant the Cutting
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Fill a small pot with moist, well-draining soil or compost.
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Use a stick or pencil to make a hole, then insert the cutting about halfway in.
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Firm the soil around it gently to hold it upright.
5. Create a Humid Environment
Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a cut plastic bottle to trap moisture and create a mini greenhouse.
This keeps humidity high, which is key for root growth.
6. Keep It Warm & Moist
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Place your cutting in indirect sunlight—avoid harsh direct rays.
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Water regularly to keep the soil damp (but not soggy).
7. Be Patient—Roots Are Coming!
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks. To check:
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Gently tug on the stem.
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If you feel resistance, roots have developed!
8. Transplant with Care
Once new leaves appear and roots are well-established, move your rose to a larger pot or into your garden.
Pro Tips for Success:
Take cuttings early in the morning when the plant is well-hydrated.
Spring or early summer is the best time to propagate.
Avoid direct sunlight during the rooting phase—go for filtered or partial light.
Don’t overwater—damp, not soggy soil is the goal.
From One Rose to Many…
With just a little time and care, you can transform a single rose stem into a whole new plant—no fancy tools or garden center trips required. It’s a satisfying and sustainable way to grow more of your favorite flowers!
