How to Grow Rose Cuttings in a Potato? Does It Really Work or Not?

Do you have beautiful roses in your garden that you’d like to propagate without spending any money? As you probably already know, the easiest way to do this is by taking cuttings. But, do you know the potato method? Is it really effective? And when should you do it? So, let’s see how to grow rose cuttings in a potato!

When to Take Rose Cuttings?

Before we tell you how to grow rose cutting in a potato, let’s first see when to take a rose cutting. According to gardening experts, the best time to take a cutting is between July and mid-September. This period not only turns out to be the most favorable, but also makes the task much easier. The good recovery of the cutting generally appears within two months after that. If buds appear, you have successfully propagated your beautiful shrub.

Rose Cuttings in a Potato: Does It Work or Not?

Growing a rose cutting in a potato probably seems weird, if not impossible. Does this method really work? Well, gardeners are actually divided. One thing is certain: potatoes help maintain moisture within the cuttings and nourish them during the rooting process. According to some, it works. Others say you’re more likely to grow potato plants than beautiful roses. A bad smell due to the decomposition of the vegetable is also possible.

However, if you are already growing roses, feel free to take two to three cuttings and get started. After all, you have nothing to lose by trying this extraordinary method.

How to Grow Rose Cuttings in a Potato?

To grow a rose cutting in a potato is actually super easy and doesn’t require any special skills. Before you begin, put on a pair of gardening gloves to protect your hands from thorns. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Select a healthy stem about 8 inches/20 cm long. Cut at the base at a 45-degree angle in order to encourage water absorption and root system formation.
2. Soak the stem in rooting hormone. While this step is not mandatory, it greatly increases your chances of success. You can find the product in garden centers.
3. Dig a hole in a potato using a clean screwdriver or other similar tool. Whatever tool you choose, make sure it’s clean and disinfected. The hole should be large enough to accommodate the rose cutting.
4. Place the cut stem in the hole and then plant the potato in a pot or directly in soil. Cover the potato with compost, making sure that the top third of the cutting protrudes above the surface of the soil.
5. Water and keep the soil slightly moist until new growth forms.

Good to know: Overwatering will rot not only the potato, but also the rose cutting. That’s why it’s crucial to check the soil carefully. Whether you plant your rose in a pot or in soil, it is important to provide it with well-drained soil, as well as a sunny location sheltered from the wind. A spot in partial shade and without drafts will be the perfect location.

When to Plant a Rose Cutting in Soil?

You’ve successfully planted your rose cutting in a potato? That’s excellent news! But you’ve planted it in a pot and now you’re not sure when to transplant it into soil. Don’t worry, we’ll tell you how. Whichever cutting method you choose, you’ll need to plant it in spring, as early as April-May. If you notice buds appearing, plant without a second thought!

Also read: How to Take Honeysuckle Cuttings in Winter? All You Need to Know to Succeed