How to Successfully Propagate Roses through Cuttings
Roses, as classic flowers for courtyard planting and potted plant appreciation, can extend their blooming period through cutting propagation. However, many gardening enthusiasts often encounter difficulties in root formation and stem rot during practical operations. This article provides an in-depth analysis of four key stages, guiding you systematically through the entire process from timing selection to post-propagation care, ensuring over 90% success rate in cutting propagation.
One: Scientific Selection of Propagation Time
1.1 Optimal Season Selection
The two periods with the highest cell activity are around the time of the Spring Equinox (February-March) and the Autumnal Equinox (July-August). During these times, the day-night temperature difference is maintained at 8-12°C, which can avoid summer high temperatures from burning the cut ends and prevent winter low temperatures from inhibiting the formation of callus tissue.
1.2 Weather Detail Control
Choose to propagate after three consecutive days of cloudy and rainy weather, maintaining an air humidity of 65%-75% as ideal. Operating in the morning when dew is still present can maximize the moisture balance of the stems.
Two: Substrate Sterilization Treatment
2.1 Substrate Formula Optimization
It is recommended to use a golden ratio of Perlite: Vermiculite: Decomposed Leaf Soil = 3:2:1. Add 50g of sulfur powder per cubic meter of substrate to adjust the pH to 6.2-6.8, creating the best environment for root formation.
2.2 Deep Sterilization Process
Use the steam sterilization method, placing the substrate in a breathable cloth bag and then into a steamer, with a high temperature of 100°C for 30 minutes, which can thoroughly kill pathogenic microorganisms such as Fusarium.
Three: Standards for Selecting High-Quality Cuttings
How to Successfully Propagate Roses through Cuttings
3.1 Stem Selection Standards
Select semi-lignified stems from the current year, with a diameter of 6-8mm being ideal. Observe the internode spacing, retaining the middle section with 3-4 full buds, and keep 2 compound leaves at the top for photosynthesis.
3.2 Sterilization Pretreatment
Soak the cut ends in a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution for 10 minutes, then dip in wood ash to form a protective film, providing double protection against bacterial infection.
Four: Precise Cutting Propagation Method
4.1 Scientific Use of Rooting Hormones
Choose a rooting powder containing 500ppm of naphthylacetic acid (NAA), soak the base for 30 minutes to stimulate the rapid formation of callus tissue.
4.2 Intelligent Cutting Techniques
First, make a 3cm deep guiding hole in the substrate with a bamboo skewer, then insert the cutting at a 45° angle, ensuring the lowest bud is buried in the soil. After compacting, use the immersion method to water, avoiding water impact.
By mastering the 28 technical details of the four core stages, combined with modern horticultural methods such as temperature and humidity monitoring, even beginners can achieve a significant leap in cutting propagation success rate. It is recommended to start applying potassium dihydrogen phosphate foliar fertilizer (0.2% concentration) 15 days after propagation, and gradually increase light intensity after new buds have unfolded, allowing your rose garden to continue blooming with vibrant colors.