Wishing you a relaxing and inspiring day in your garden. I am sharing a simple yet highly effective method for propagating roses by cuttings using familiar materials that can stimulate root growth and protect cuttings extremely well if used correctly.
Follow each step patiently and you will see steady, healthy development. Keep everything clean, evenly moist, and gently shaded.
1. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Selecting the Cutting
Choose a healthy rose cutting that is free from disease and of moderate age. Cuttings that are too young tend to wilt and rot easily, while cuttings that are too old are less likely to form new roots.
After selecting a suitable cutting, remove all leaves and thorns to reduce water loss and minimize damage during the process. Remove any old, withered petals as these are prone to bacterial and fungal infections.
Trim the cutting to about 20 cm in length – the ideal length to balance growth potential and nutrient reserves.
2. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Lemon Solution
Clean and Chop Lemon
Prepare a solution for treating the rose stems using fresh lemon. Take a lemon, wash it thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities from the peel, then chop both the peel and pulp into small pieces and put them into a clean plastic cup.
Lemons contain many natural organic acids, which have a mild antiseptic effect, helping to clean the surface of the stem and stimulate the root tissue to function more effectively. Add about 500 ml of clean water and stir well to dissolve the lemon essence.
Wipe and Soak the Stem
Use a soft, clean cloth to dip into the lemon solution and gently wipe the entire rose stem, paying special attention to the base and cuts. Place the rose stem in the lemon water and soak it for about 30 minutes to allow the lemon essence to penetrate deeper into the plant tissue.
After soaking for sufficient time, gently remove the rose stem, stir the solution again, and filter out the pulp, keeping only the clear liquid. This is the cleaned lemon solution, ready to be combined with the next ingredient.
Add Milk and Dilute
Add a spoonful of fresh milk to the solution. Milk contains plenty of protein, calcium, and trace elements, and when properly diluted, it provides initial nutrition for young roots and creates a beneficial microbial environment, helping the roots develop more steadily.
After adding the milk, dilute the solution further by adding 0.5 liters of clean water and stirring until all the ingredients are completely mixed.
Read More: Rose Branches Root Sprout Overnight
3. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Prepare the Medium
Prepare the growing medium. Take a clean plastic cup and fill it with treated coconut fiber.
The coconut fiber needs to be pre-treated to remove tannins, then lightly compressed to achieve the right consistency. Coconut fiber retains moisture well, is well-aerated, and is very suitable for the stage when young roots are forming.
After preparation, pour the lemon-milk solution into the coconut fiber cup in enough quantity to moisten the entire medium without causing waterlogging. Keep it evenly moist, not soggy.
4. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Plant the Cutting
Use your finger to create a hole in the center of the coconut fiber cup and gently place the rose stem in the center. Gently press down around the base to secure the branch, helping it stand firmly and make good contact with the growing medium.
Cover it tightly with a plastic bag or clear plastic cup to create a humid environment, limit water loss, and help the branch adapt quickly. Keep the cover clear and clean for light and hygiene.
Read More: Help Roses Root Sprout Overnight
5. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Placement and Care
Place the cup in a cool, airy place, avoiding strong winds and direct sunlight. Intense sunlight during this stage can cause thermal shock and slow root development.
Maintain stable humidity inside the cover and check the medium to ensure it stays lightly moist. Avoid overwatering.
6. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Signs of Success
After about 10 days of proper care, you will notice a significant change. Lush green shoots will gradually emerge on the branch, signaling that the plant is entering a stable growth phase.
Many new roots will begin to appear from the base of the branch. They will look white, translucent, and plump, indicating successful rooting.
7. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Transplanting
Once the roots are strong enough, replant the rose branch in a well-draining pot. Use river sand as a growing medium to encourage further root growth.
Handle the young roots gently and keep the plant shaded for a short time after transplanting. Water lightly to settle the medium.
Read More: Root Rose Branch Fast Growth 2
8. Rose Propagation by Cuttings – Why This Works
Propagating rose cuttings using lemon and milk is simple and easy to do, and very reliable if you are patient and follow each step correctly. The combination of the natural antiseptic properties of lemon and the gentle nutrients from milk creates an ideal environment for new roots to form and develop.
This process helps you better understand the plant’s true needs in its early stages: cleanliness, stable humidity, and sufficient nutrients. Keep observing and adjusting with care.
Final Thoughts
When you take the time to observe each small change, from the white roots emerging to the green shoots rising, you will feel the unique joy that gardening brings. It is not just about propagating a flower cutting, but also a journey of nurturing life with meticulousness and patience.
I wish you continued success with the rose cuttings you cultivate yourself, so every corner of your garden holds joy and tranquility each day.