One rose can become many with just a little love, care, and patience.
There’s something magical about growing new roses from cuttings—it’s simple, satisfying, and a beautiful way to expand your garden without buying new plants. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned green thumb, this step-by-step method will help you turn a single stem into a blooming rose bush.
Step 1: Select the Perfect Cutting
Choose a healthy, green stem that’s firm but not woody. It should be about 6–8 inches long and free of disease or damage.
- Trim the cutting just below a leaf node (the little bump where leaves grow).
- Remove any flowers or buds, and keep only a couple of top leaves to help the plant conserve energy.
Step 2: Prepare and Plant
- Dip the base of the stem into rooting hormone (optional but helpful for faster root growth).
- Plant it about halfway down into a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil—a mix of potting soil and perlite works great.
Step 3: Create a Mini Greenhouse
- Cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag or a cut plastic bottle to trap humidity.
- Keep the container in bright, indirect sunlight—avoid direct sun, which can overheat the cutting.
- Water lightly and regularly to keep the soil just moist, not soggy.
Step 4: Wait and Watch
- After 3 to 6 weeks, you’ll start to see signs of growth.
- When new leaves appear and the stem resists a gentle tug, roots have formed—it’s ready for its next home!
Step 5: Transplant with Care
Move your rooted rose into a larger pot or directly into the garden. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and keep watering consistently as it adjusts.
From One Rose, Many
This simple method not only fills your garden with roses—it multiplies the joy of growing something beautiful from scratch. With just a single stem, a bit of patience, and a touch of care, you can create a garden full of blooms that tell a story.
