This method of rose propagation by cuttings helps the cuttings root quickly, stay healthy, and minimize root rot. It uses readily available materials, is safe and environmentally friendly, and is especially suitable for those who enjoy natural gardening.
1. Rose Propagation by Cuttings: Prepare Cuttings
First, prepare a healthy rose cutting, free from pests and diseases, and of moderate age. Cuttings that are too young will easily lose water and wilt quickly, while cuttings that are too old will be difficult to stimulate the formation of new roots.
After selecting a suitable cutting, remove all leaves and thorns. This minimizes water loss and reduces damage during the cutting process.
Old or wilted petals should be completely removed, as they no longer have any growth value and easily become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Finally, trim the flower stems, leaving them at about 20 cm in length. This is the ideal length to ensure the stem has enough stored nutrients and can easily adapt to its new environment.
For a quick comparison, see simple method options.
2. Rose Propagation by Cuttings: Garlic Treatment
Prep the clove
Take a clove of garlic, peel it, and cut it in half. Use a small knife to gently make a hole in the center of the garlic clove, just large enough to fit the rose stem. Insert the base of the stem into the hole and leave it for about 30 minutes.
Garlic contains many natural antibiotic compounds such as allicin. It disinfects and prevents fungal and bacterial infections from entering the cut, helping to keep the stem disease-free from the start.
Protect the stem
Use the remaining half of the garlic clove to gently rub over the entire stem, paying special attention to the cuts and the base. The garlic extract clinging to the surface of the cutting will create a natural protective barrier, helping the cutting adapt better during the initial rooting stage.
Next, take another clove of garlic, peel it and chop it finely along with the first clove. Then, put everything into a clean plastic cup.
For alternatives that pair well with this step, see an effective method.
3. Rose Propagation by Cuttings: Banana Solution
At this point, prepare a ripe banana. Ripe bananas are rich in potassium, natural sugars, and enzymes beneficial for root formation. Wash the banana, peel it and cut off a 3 cm section of the ripe banana flesh and set it aside.
Chop the remaining banana peel and add it to the plastic cup along with the prepared garlic. Add about 500 ml of warm water to the cup, stir well to dissolve the nutrients in the garlic and banana peel, then let it sit for about 30 minutes.
After soaking for the sufficient time, filter out the solids, keeping only the garlic-banana peel solution. This nutrient-rich solution with mild antibacterial properties is ideal for supporting rose cuttings during the rooting stage.
4. Rose Propagation by Cuttings: Planting in Sand
Prepare another clean plastic cup and fill it about 1/4 full with treated river sand. Remove the rose cutting from the garlic clove, then insert the base of the cutting into the prepared banana peel. This banana peel acts as a natural nutrient source, providing continuous energy to the cutting in the initial stages.
Place the cutting and banana peel in the center of the cup of sand, then add sand until the cup is full. Gently press around the cutting with your hands to secure it, ensuring it stands firmly and makes even contact with the growing medium.
Next, pour the garlic-banana peel solution into the cup of sand, enough to moisten the growing medium, avoiding overfilling which can cause waterlogging. River sand has the advantage of good drainage, helping to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
5. Rose Propagation by Cuttings: Create Humidity
Use a plastic bag or a clear plastic cup to cover the cup and the rose cutting to create a humid environment. This helps the cutting to retain moisture.
Place the cup in a cool, airy place, away from strong winds and direct sunlight. Intense sunlight can increase the internal temperature and affect root development.
For a beginner-friendly variation, see this easy method.
6. Rose Propagation by Cuttings: Early Signs and Potting Up
After about 10 days of proper care, you will see very positive signs. Young shoots will gradually emerge on the cutting, green and healthy.
At the same time, many new roots will begin to appear from the base of the cutting, white, thick, and succulent. This is a sign that the cutting has successfully rooted.
Once the roots have developed stably, replant the rose cutting in a pot with good drainage. Use treated coconut fiber as a growing medium for the plant to continue growing and developing long-term.
Final Thoughts
The method of propagating rose cuttings using garlic and ripe bananas is simple, economical, and very reliable if you follow the correct procedure and patiently care for it. Each step has its own significance, from sterilizing with garlic and supplementing energy with bananas to creating a well-draining environment with river sand.
As you observe the subtle changes in the rose bush, from the first tender roots to the green shoots emerging, you will feel the joy and tranquility that gardening brings. It is not just about propagating a new rose bush; it is also a way to connect more deeply with nature, cultivate patience, and appreciate the value of each tiny life growing day by day in your garden.