How to Propagate Roses through Cuttings
In the eyes of gardening enthusiasts, propagating roses through cuttings is a highly rewarding method. Scientific operations can transform ordinary flowering branches into independent plants, saving costs on purchasing seedlings while preserving the superior traits of the parent plant. Mastering the three core elements - timing, branch handling, and environmental control - allows you to easily achieve the splendid transformation of rose branches.
Golden Rules for Rose Propagation by Cuttings
1.1 Best Time for Propagation
In early spring (February-March), when the temperature rises to 15-20°C, the dormant buds of roses begin to germinate, and the lignified branches are most active. In autumn (September-October), with a stable day-night temperature difference of over 10°C, the new roots can safely survive the winter. High temperatures in summer can cause the cut ends to rot, while low temperatures in winter inhibit the formation of callus tissue, reducing the survival rate by about 40% in these two seasons.
1.2 Standards for Choosing Branches
Select semi-lignified branches from the current year, with a diameter of 0.6-0.8 cm being ideal. branches that are too tender tend to dehydrate, and those that are too old have slow root growth. Use a pruning shear that has been disinfected with alcohol, making a 45-degree oblique cut to maximize the cut area. Retain the top two compound leaves (each with 3 small leaves), and remove the rest of the leaves along with their petioles to reduce transpiration and avoid leaving wounds.
II. Intelligent Soil Mixing and Root Promotion Techniques
2.1 Optimal Substrate Mix Ratio
Use a mixed substrate of peat soil: perlite: vermiculite in a ratio of 3:1:1, which retains water and is breathable. Add 5g of superphosphate to each liter of substrate as a base fertilizer to promote root development. Soak the substrate with boiling water for sterilization before use, and let it cool to room temperature.
2.2 Root Activation Plan
Soak the base 3 cm of the branch in an IBA 500ppm solution for 30 minutes, or use willow extract (fresh willow branches: water = 1:5 soaked for 24 hours) as an alternative. After treatment, let it dry for 20 minutes to form a protective film, preventing the invasion of pathogens.
III. Meticulous Management System
3.1 Planting Operation Standards
Make a 3 cm deep planting hole in the substrate with a bamboo stick, insert the branch, and gently press the surrounding soil. Maintain a spacing of 8 cm between plants and 12 cm between rows to ensure ventilation and light. Use a transparent arch shed to maintain 85% humidity, and vent for 15 minutes each morning and evening.
3.2 Intelligent Environmental Control
Set up a 50% shade net and maintain a ground temperature of 22-25°C. Use a misting irrigation system to spray water for 10 seconds every 2 hours, keeping the leaf surface moist without积水. After three weeks, when new roots begin to sprout, gradually increase sunlight to 4 hours of direct light per day.
Through 30 days of scientific care, when the new roots grow to 5 cm and two new leaves appear, the plants can be transplanted. Mastering this rose propagation system not only achieves a survival rate of over 95%, but also allows every flowering branch to焕发新生, creating your own rose garden.