How to Grow Roses from Cuttings (Even If You're a Beginner!)

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Updated: 06 Aug, 2025 • 0 • min read

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Imagine growing beautiful roses in your garden without spending a single cent on new plants. Sounds like magic? It’s not! You can grow new rose bushes easily from cuttings, even if you’re new to gardening.

In this guide, we’ll walk you step by step through how to grow roses from cuttings, using simple tools and tricks. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to try it yourself and maybe even share rose plants with your friends and neighbors!

Why Grow Roses from Cuttings?

Most people buy rose plants from nurseries, but growing roses from cuttings is:

Free
Satisfying
A great way to clone your favorite rose variety

Unlike growing from seeds, cuttings are genetic copies of the parent plant so you know exactly what kind of blooms to expect.

Best Time to Take Rose Cuttings

The best time to take rose cuttings is:

Late spring to early summer – when the plant is actively growing.

Avoid taking cuttings during winter or when the plant is stressed.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a simple checklist of tools and materials:

Sharp, clean pruning shears
A healthy rose bush
Small pots or containers
Potting mix (light and well-draining)
Rooting hormone (optional)
A clear plastic bag or cut plastic bottle
Watering can or spray bottle

Step 1: Take the Perfect Cutting

Choose a healthy rose stem that:

Has just finished blooming
Is green but firm (not too soft or woody)
Has at least 3–5 leaf nodes

Cut about 6 to 8 inches (15–20 cm) of stem at a 45-degree angle. Remove all flowers and most leaves, leaving just the top two.

Tip: Use a sterilized blade to avoid disease.

Step 2: Prepare the Cutting

Remove the bottom leaves completely.
Dip the cut end into rooting hormone (optional).
Insert the cutting 2–3 inches into pre-moistened soil.
Press the soil gently around the stem to hold it steady.

Step 3: Create a Mini Greenhouse

Moisture is key to successful rooting!

Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a cut plastic bottle.
This traps humidity while allowing light in.
Place in bright, indirect sunlight.

Step 4: Care and Patience

Water lightly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Open the cover daily for fresh air.
Watch for new growth after 3–4 weeks.

Rooting takes time, so be patient!

Step 5: Transplanting Your New Rose Plant

Once the cutting grows new leaves and roots are established, it’s time to transplant:

Move to a bigger pot or directly into your garden.
Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Water regularly, but avoid overwatering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Why It’s a Problem
Taking too young or old stems	May not root properly
Using dirty tools	Can introduce disease
Skipping humidity	Cuttings dry out easily
Overwatering	Roots can rot in soggy soil

Bonus Tips for Success

Take multiple cuttings to increase your chances.
Label different rose varieties.
Use a spray bottle to keep leaves moist.
Add mulch after transplanting to keep soil moist.

Final Thoughts: Grow Your Garden with Confidence

Growing roses from cuttings isn’t just cost-effective it’s rewarding, fun, and a great way to connect with nature.

Once you succeed with your first cutting, you’ll want to try more. So grab your shears, find a healthy stem, and give it a go!

Mayora Gardening