Love knockout roses?
Want more in your garden?
It’s easy to grow them from cuttings! Discover 7 simple tactics to get started. You’ll have beautiful roses in no time.
Let’s get growing!
Selecting the Right Cuttings
First things first, choose the right cuttings. Pick a healthy stem from your knockout rose bush, preferably one that’s about 6 inches long.
You’ll want a stem that’s just finished blooming and has some healthy leaves. Cut it just below a leaf node, which is where the leaves come out.
Snip off the flower and any leaves at the bottom half. Voila!
You’ve got your cutting ready!
Prepping Your Cuttings
Now, let’s get these cuttings prepped. Dip the freshly cut end into some rooting hormone.
This stuff gives your cuttings a little extra boost to start growing roots. You can find it at most garden centers.
If you don’t have any, no worries! Some folks swear by using honey as a natural alternative.
After dipping, let it sit for a minute to absorb.
Setting Up the Pot
Get a small pot with good drainage holes and fill it with a mix of potting soil and perlite, or sand if that’s what you have. This ensures your new plants have the right amount of moisture and air.
Use a pencil or stick to make a hole in the soil. Pop your cutting in there and gently press the soil around it for support.
You’re doing great!
Keeping Them Cozy
Just like us, plants like a bit of comfort. Cover your pot with a plastic bag or a plastic bottle with the bottom cut off.
This creates a mini greenhouse, trapping humidity and warmth. Keep it out of direct sunlight but in a bright spot.
This little “spa treatment” helps your cutting stay happy and moist as it starts to grow roots.
Regular Checks and Watering
Check on your cuttings every few days. Make sure the soil stays moist but not soaked.
If the soil gets too wet, your cuttings could rot. If it gets too dry, they won’t root well.
It’s like Goldilocks – you need it just right! Misting the leaves can also help keep the humidity high around your cuttings, especially in dry climates.
Transplanting to the Garden
After about a month, give the cutting a gentle tug. If it resists, congrats!
You’ve got roots. You can move it to a bigger pot or directly into your garden.
Still, be gentle with them as they’re like babies but growing stronger every day. Gradually let them spend more time outside to get used to the big world before planting them permanently.
Patience Pays Off
Growing knockout roses from cuttings can take some time. Be patient and give them all the love they deserve.
Before you know it, you’ll have new, beautiful roses blooming in your garden. Grab a cup of coffee, relax, and let nature do its thing.
Happy gardening!