How to Graft Rose Cuttings

Wait until the spring or summer to graft the rose, depending on the species. The optimal graft time is after the blooms fall off, but prior to the base of the buds swelling to produce another bloom.

Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol onto a clean rag and wipe the blades of a sharp knife with it to sterilize it. Next, wipe the blades of a pair of hand pruners with the cloth to sterilize them as well.

Locate a rose bush that you will use as the rootstock, which should have a thick, sturdy main stem and show no signs of disease.

Locate the rose plant with the blooms you want to graft onto the roots. Grasp one of the stems in your hand and trace it back until you count three buds, which are small rice- or pea-sized projections.

Cut off the stem, using hand pruners, and make the cut just below the third bud. Next, cut off the top of the stem just above the uppermost bud.

Lay the stem on a flat surface and cut a 1/2-inch wedge off the bottom end of one side, using a sharp knife. Flip the stem over and perform an identical cut on the opposite side so the bottom of the stem forms a V-shape.

Cut the main stem of the root stock plant with hand pruners, making the cut straight across. Next, use the knife to create a 1/2-inch-deep cut in the top center of the stem. Hold the cut open with the knife and slide the “V” end of the other stem into it.

Wrap grafting tape around the two portions where they connect until they are held firmly together. Wrap plastic wrap around the stems to completely cover the connection point and the tape. Secure it with more tape on the outside and leave it for four to six weeks.

Remove the plastic. The plants will now grow as one.