How to Plant Roses from Cuttings

Planting roses from cuttings is a simple and cost-effective way to grow new plants, especially if you want to replicate a favourite rose. It involves taking a healthy stem from an existing rose bush, encouraging it to root, and then establishing it as a new plant. This method doesn’t just save money—it ensures the new rose will be genetically identical to the original. With the right conditions and care, rose cuttings can grow into strong, flowering plants within a year.

How to Take Rose Cuttings

Start by selecting a healthy, non-flowering stem from a mature rose bush. The best cuttings are about 20cm long, with at least three leaf nodes. Remove the lower leaves, leaving just the top set. Using sharp secateurs, cut just below a node at the base and just above a node at the top. To improve rooting, you can gently scrape the lower part of the stem and dip it into rooting hormone before planting it in compost.

When to Take Rose Cuttings

The ideal time to take rose cuttings depends on the type of cutting you're taking. Softwood cuttings are best taken in late spring or early summer when stems are green and flexible. Hardwood cuttings, which are more robust, are taken in late autumn or winter when the plant is dormant. Both types can succeed, but softwood cuttings root more quickly and are often easier for beginners.

What Will I Need to Take Rose Cuttings

You’ll need sharp, clean secateurs, rooting hormone (optional but helpful), a pot or growing tray, compost, a plastic bag or propagator lid, and a stick or pencil to make planting holes. If planting directly into the ground, choose a sheltered, shaded area with well-drained soil. For pots, a mix of sand and compost provides the right texture for root development.

What is Rose Replant Disease

Rose replant disease occurs when a new rose is planted in the same spot where an old rose grew. The new plant may struggle to establish and show poor growth or die back. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but it’s believed to be a build-up of pathogens in the soil. To avoid this, remove and replace the soil or plant the new rose in a different area. Adding mycorrhizal fungi at planting can also support root health.

What Are the Different Varieties of Roses

Roses come in a wide range of varieties, including hybrid teas, floribundas, climbers, ramblers, shrub roses and ground covers. Each type has unique features—hybrid teas have large, classic blooms on upright stems, while floribundas produce clusters of flowers. Climbing and rambling roses are ideal for walls and trellises. Shrub roses tend to be hardy and bushy, often with a strong fragrance. Choosing the right type depends on where you plan to grow it and the look you're after.

How Long Does a Rose Take to Grow

Rose cuttings can start forming roots within four to six weeks, but full establishment takes longer. Expect to see significant growth by the following spring, and flowering within a year if conditions are right. Growth rate depends on variety, care, and weather. While you might get some flowers in the first season, the plant will usually reach its full potential after a couple of years of consistent pruning, feeding and watering.

Rooting Success Rates Vary

Even under ideal conditions, not every cutting will root. Expect a success rate of around 50–70% depending on the variety and time of year. To improve your odds, take several cuttings at once and monitor them closely for signs of rot or wilting.

Location Makes a Big Difference

While you're waiting for roots to form, keep your cuttings in a sheltered, warm spot with indirect light. Too much sun can dry them out before roots develop. A cold frame, unheated greenhouse or simply a spot in your garden that gets morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.

Cover to Maintain Humidity

After planting the cutting, cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a plastic bottle with the bottom cut off. This acts like a mini greenhouse, trapping humidity and encouraging root development. Make sure there’s some airflow to prevent mould—poke a few holes or open the bag briefly each day.

Be Patient with Growth

Once the cutting is rooted, growth above ground might be slow at first. The plant is putting energy into developing roots, which is more important long-term. Don’t rush to transplant it—wait until it’s showing consistent new leaf growth before moving it to its final spot.

Don’t Let the Soil Dry Out

Moisture is key, especially during the first few weeks. Keep the compost damp but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to rot, but if the cutting dries out, it likely won’t recover. A light misting can help maintain moisture without soaking the stem.

Label Your Cuttings

If you’re taking cuttings from more than one rose variety, make sure to label them. It can take months before any distinguishing features show, and by then, it’s hard to tell one from another without tags.

Use Mature, Healthy Parent Plants

Avoid taking cuttings from roses that are stressed, diseased or recently sprayed with chemicals. Healthy, established parent plants give your cutting the best shot at thriving.