Growing roses from cut flowers is not an ideal method, but it is worth giving it a try if you are interested in propagating roses. However, it is important to note that roses bred specifically for cut flower production are typically not well-suited for growing on their own roots. These roses are commonly grafted onto stronger rootstock to ensure their vigor and productivity as cut flowers.
When you attempt to root cuttings from these roses, there is a possibility that they may not grow well or thrive in your garden. This is because the resulting plants may lack the strong root system that they would have if they were grafted onto a more robust rootstock. Consequently, they may struggle to establish themselves and may not perform as well as expected.
In my personal experience, I have tried growing roses from cut flowers a few times. While I have had some success with certain varieties, others have struggled to thrive. This inconsistency can be frustrating, as you may invest time and effort into nurturing the cuttings, only to be disappointed with the results.
If you still want to give it a go, here are some steps you can follow to increase your chances of success:
1. Choose a healthy stem: Select a stem that is green and healthy, preferably with a few leaf nodes. It should be from a fresh bouquet or cutting, as older flowers may not have viable stems for propagation.
2. Remove the flowers: Trim off any flowers or buds from the stem, as these can divert energy away from root development.
3. Prepare the stem: Trim the stem to around 6-8 inches in length, making a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove any lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
4. Dip the stem in rooting hormone: To encourage root growth, dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder or gel. This helps stimulate root development and increases the chances of successful rooting.
5. Plant the cutting: Prepare a pot with well-draining soil or a rooting medium, such as a mixture of perlite and peat moss. Make a hole in the soil using a pencil or your finger and gently insert the cutting, burying it about halfway into the soil. Firm the soil around the stem to ensure good contact.
6. Provide the right conditions: Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, as it can be too harsh for the delicate cutting. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause rotting.
7. Monitor and wait: It may take several weeks for the cutting to develop roots. During this time, check the soil moisture regularly and mist the leaves occasionally to maintain humidity. Be patient and resist the temptation to disturb the cutting too much.
8. Transplanting: Once the cutting has established a good root system, usually indicated by new growth and a slight resistance when tugged gently, you can consider transplanting it into a larger pot or into the ground in your garden.
Remember, success with growing roses from cut flowers is not guaranteed, particularly with commercially bred varieties. However, with patience and proper care, you may be able to propagate some roses successfully. It is also worth considering other methods of rose propagation, such as taking cuttings from established rose bushes or purchasing bare-root roses for better chances of success.
