Can Roses Grow Out of Concrete?

Concrete Cracks and Plants

• Much of a plant's root system grows close to the surface of the soil, seeking oxygen and water. Roots are attracted to the water and air that a crack in the concrete allows in and will travel horizontally toward them.

Wild Roses

• Wild roses are the most likely to take advantage of a crack in the concrete. There are more than 100 native species of roses in the world -- in North America, Asia and Europe. Species native to Asian regions were introduced to North America and planted extensively; the multiflora adapted to the eastern U.S. so well that it's considered a nuisance weed by law; rugosa roses are also tough and survive in a variety of climates. A crack in the concrete provides an opportunity for these rugged roses and their numerous hybrids to grow.

Rose Propagation

• Some domestic roses grow stems from the root stock. These suckers emerge from ground level or below, sometimes several feet from the main shrub. They can be more vigorous than the parent. Wild roses spread through the root system and seeds. The seeds can settle in the cracks and germinate; native rose seedlings have a high survival rate.