How to Plant a Rose Cutting

Overview

Are you are looking for an affordable way to add variety to your rose garden? Perhaps your friend or neighbor has a beautiful type of rose that you would love to grow as well. Consider asking for a cutting from the rose bush of someone you know. While it will take some time to establish a full-size bush, with the proper tools and some tender loving care, you can grow your own rose by planting a cutting.

Step 1

Snip a cutting six to nine inches long. Be sure to cut a stem that looks healthy, free of disease and insect damage. Take the cutting when the temperature is cool to help prevent it from dehydrating. Make sure the cutting has leaves, which are what roses use for photosynthesis.

Step 2

Remove the leaves from the bottom two inches of the cutting. Cut the bottom of the stem at a 45-degree angle to "wound" the cutting and allow it to absorb the rooting hormone.

Step 3

Dip the cutting into rooting hormone, which is a powder or liquid that can be purchased at most garden supply or home improvement retail stores. These products contain natural plant hormones that will help the cutting take root quickly.

Step 4

Plant the cutting about two inches deep. Select an area with lots of sunlight and good drainage. If your soil is mostly clay or sand, consider mixing it with some potting soil before planting the rose cutting.

Step 5

Water the cutting and cover it with a glass jar or plastic container. You can use something like a clean canning, pickle or jelly jar. You can also cover it with a three-liter soda bottle with the bottom cut off; place the cut end over the plant onto the soil, and the spout at the top of the cutting with the lid removed. Take off the cover when the temperature is 75 degrees F. or warmer.