Propagating Rose Cuttings Using the Potato Method: A Step-by-Step Guide

What You’ll Need:

• A healthy, firm potato
• A sharp, clean knife or pruning shears
• A rose cutting, about 10-15cm long
• Rooting hormone (optional)
• A pot and potting mix

Steps:

1. Prepare the Potato: Choose a medium-sized potato without any bruises or green spots. Cut a slice off the bottom to create a flat surface for stability.
2. Prepare the Cutting: Take a healthy rose cutting with at least two nodes (bumps where leaves grow). Remove leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Make a diagonal cut at the bottom of the cutting to increase the surface area for root growth.
3. Create a Hole: Using a pencil or a small tool, make a hole in the potato deep enough to accommodate the cutting.
4. Dip in Rooting Hormone: Optionally, dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
5. Insert Cutting: Carefully insert the cutting into the hole in the potato, ensuring good contact.
6. Plant the Potato: Fill a pot with well-draining potting mix. Plant the potato with the cutting facing upwards, covering it with soil up to the base of the cutting.
7. Care: Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Tips for Success in page 2