How to Grow Old World Roses From Cuttings

Old world roses are the original rosebushes that account for the different varieties of roses now in existence. Old world varieties, handed down during the centuries by taking cuttings, grow well from cuttings even though it may be a trial-and-error process. Instead of buying more rosebushes, root the cuttings yourself. Texas A&M University Extension suggests taking the cuttings in the cool months between November and February to attain a higher success rate.

Gardening gloves
Pruning shears
Rooting hormone
Peat moss
Compost

Instructions

- 1
  Select a healthy cane growing from the mother stem that is 12 to 24 inches in length. Cut the cane on a 45-degree angle above the outward-facing bud, using sharp pruning shears. Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect yourself from thorns.
- 2
  Discard leaves, remaining blooms and twigs. Cut the cane into six to nine pieces that are 6 to 8 inches long. The end of each cutting should be near a leaf node.
- 3
  Place the old world rose cuttings in a rooting hormone powder to promote healthy roots. Read the directions on the label for the correct amount of rooting hormone to use and application.
- 4
  Prepare a bed for the cuttings on the east or north side of your home, ideally against the house or garden shed where the cuttings will be protected from the afternoon sun and receive indirect sunlight. Amend the soil with one-quarter peat moss or compost.
- 5
  Shake any excess rooting hormone powder from each cutting. Place the cuttings halfway into the soil and firmly tamp the soil around the cutting. Plant the rose cuttings 6 to 8 inches apart. Water the bed thoroughly.
- 6
  Monitor the soil during the rooting process. The soil needs to be moist, so water when rainfall isn't adequate. Transplant in the fall to permanent planting beds.

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