If you’re struggling to propagate roses the usual way, it might be time you learn how to grow rose cuttings in potatoes. It could make a world of difference and offer nutrients your garden soil may be missing.
Can you grow rose cuttings in potatoes?
It is simple to grow rose cuttings in potatoes. The theory behind this method is that the potato will keep the cutting moist and provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to thrive. As the plant grows the potato will break down naturally, nourishing the soil.
Four steps to grow rose cuttings in a potato
Follow this step-by-step process to enjoy a bounty of fragrant roses in your garden.
What you’ll need:
- A firm, healthy potato
- A 200mm long clipping from a mature rose bush (kept moist in a bucket of water)
- A drill or corkscrew
- Sharp clippers
- Hormone gel, such as Yates Clonex Rooting Hormone Gel (or honey)
Step 1
Prepare the potato by carving out a hole that’s slightly smaller than your cutting. A drill is handy for this step but if you don’t have one, a corkscrew works just as well. Just be careful not to go all the way through the potato.
Step 2
Grab a rose cutting and trim 10mm off the end, cutting diagonally.
Step 3
Dip the end in a hormone gel or dust. Alternatively, honey (or even Vegemite) will do the trick. Place the end into the hole in the potato.
Step 4
Plant the potato and the rose clipping into the ground with at least three inches of good soil covering it.
Does growing rose cuttings in potatoes really work?
Yes, growing rose cuttings in a potato can really work. While some may say that growing rose cuttings in a potato is a myth (or, at the very least, an unnecessary extra step), the truth is potatoes generally have a high water content, which will help keep the cutting moist and increase the chances of the plant taking root and flourishing in your garden.
How are roses propagated?
There are a variety of ways to propagate roses. It’s actually more common for a rose to be grown from a cutting rather than a seed. Dip the stem into a rooting hormone and plant in rich soil so it’ll take root.
What is the fastest way to root rose cuttings?
The fastest way to grow roots for a rose cutting is to take a cutting from a young bud that’s finished blooming and apply a rooting hormone. This will help prompt development of the root system.
How to grow roses from cuttings in Australia?
In Australia, we have a warm climate. It’s important to make sure the cuts on your rose cuttings are clean, not rough. Remove leaves and thorns and dip in a propagating gel then carefully place directly in the soil, or in the potato, then soil. Press the soil around it, ensure to water it well, and keep it moist, not wet in a warm sheltered spot.
Do you need rooting hormone for rose cuttings?
Although it isn’t essential, it is recommended as it will increase the likeliness of success.
