We continue exploring a rather unique yet very familiar method of propagating roses by cuttings. This method helps rose cuttings quickly develop roots and healthy shoots.
If done correctly and with enough patience, you can successfully propagate roses at home without using chemical rooting hormones.
1. Rose Cutting Propagation: Prepare the Cutting
Prepare a healthy rose cutting of moderate age. The cutting should have a sturdy stem, smooth bark, be free from pests and diseases, and not be overly woody.
Use sharp scissors to remove all leaves and thorns. Removing leaves helps reduce water loss during the rooting stage and also reduces the risk of fungal and bacterial infections.
Trim the cutting, leaving only about 15 cm in length so that the cutting can focus on nourishing the new tissue. At the base, trim away a thin layer of bark, gently exposing the underlying growth tissue. This is where new roots will form, so ensure the cut is clean, neat, and undamaged.
2. Rose Cutting Propagation: Prepare Natural Solutions
Lemon solution
Take a fresh lemon, wash it, and cut it in half. Squeeze all the juice into a clean plastic cup. Don’t discard the lemon peel; chop it finely and add it to the juice.
Lemon peel contains many essential oils and trace minerals which help increase antibacterial properties and stimulate tissue regeneration. Add about 200 ml of clean water to the cup and stir well to dilute the solution.
Place the rose stem in this lemon water and soak it for about 30 minutes. During soaking, the natural acids in the lemon will help clean the cut surface, limit harmful microorganisms, and stimulate the root tissue to begin the regeneration process. For more ideas with citrus, see lemon tips.
Banana and coffee mixture
Take a ripe banana, wash it, and peel it. Banana peels contain a lot of potassium and some important minerals, which are very beneficial for root formation.
Cut the banana peel into small pieces and put them in a clean plastic cup. Then, add 2 teaspoons of coffee powder to the cup along with 500 ml of warm water.
Coffee, when properly diluted, provides a small amount of organic matter and trace elements, which helps stimulate root tissue activity. Stir the mixture well and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the nutrients to dissolve into the water. For an alternative boost, see potato peels.
3. Rose Cutting Propagation: Prepare the Substrate
Prepare some soft, clean toilet paper and tear it into small pieces. Toilet paper acts as a temporary substrate, retaining moisture well, being breathable and very suitable for the initial stage when the roots are young and weak.
4. Rose Cutting Propagation: Combine and Plant
Remove the rose stem from the cup of lemon water. Filter the lemon solution, discarding the peel residue. At the same time, filter the coffee-banana peel solution in the other cup.
Mix the two solutions thoroughly to create a combined nutrient solution. Place all the shredded paper into the solution and soak for about 5 minutes to allow the paper to absorb the water. Then, gently wring out the excess water, leaving just enough moisture.
Place the paper in another clean plastic cup and lightly press it to create a stable block. Use your finger to create a small hole in the center of the paper cup and place the rose stem inside. Adjust the stem so that the base is in good contact with the damp paper, then gently press around it to secure the stem.
For another practical approach to rooting, see this simple trick.
5. Rose Cutting Propagation: Create Humidity and Light
Cover the cup and the rose stem with a plastic bag or a clear plastic cup, creating a humid, enclosed environment like a miniature greenhouse.
Place the cup in a cool, airy place, avoiding strong winds and harsh sunlight. Gentle light will help the stem maintain its metabolism without losing water.
6. Rose Cutting Propagation: Observe Rooting
After about 10 days of proper care, you will see very encouraging results. The rose stem will begin to sprout new, fresh, plump, and vibrant green shoots.
Observe the base of the cutting; you will notice many new roots growing out, white, succulent, and firmly attached to the damp paper. This is a sign that the cutting has adapted well and can be moved to the permanent planting stage.
7. Rose Cutting Propagation: Transplanting
Gently replant the rose cutting in a well-draining pot using river sand as a growing medium to encourage stronger and more stable root development.
Rose Cutting Propagation: Why This Works
The method of propagating rose cuttings using lemon, banana, and coffee may sound strange but it is natural and highly effective if done correctly.
The most important thing is not the cost of the materials but understanding the properties of each component and how to combine them harmoniously.
When you take the time to prepare carefully, handle gently, and patiently wait, the rose cutting will respond with healthy white young roots and vibrant new shoots.
This is not only the result of a propagation method, but also the joy of seeing life revived from the simplest things in everyday life.
Rose Cutting Propagation: Final Thoughts
Choose a clean, sturdy cutting, prepare the natural solutions, and keep the environment humid with gentle light.
Watch for new shoots and roots, then transplant into a sandy, well-draining medium for steady growth.
With patience and careful handling, you can root roses at home without chemical hormones and enjoy strong, vibrant new plants.