Roses

May 2007

We transplanted two tea roses from my father's house three years ago. They came from my grandfather's house in the 70's and I am sure they are over 40 years old. They were beautiful the first year, but suffered last year and again with the cold snap we had in March. Both are close to one stalk only. We wanted to try and propagate save these family roses. Do you have a suggestion for the best way?

When taking cuttings during the growing season, the ideal cuttings are those from stems that have just finished blooming. Rose leaves come in clusters of leaflets. You want at least three to four (up to five) sets of five leaflets on the stem you are using to root. Remove the bottom sets of leaves that are on the portion of the stem that will be in the soil. Cut off the spent flower. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone and place in fresh, sterile potting soil. Water the soil. Don't try to root in water; it doesn't produce as well. Then put the cutting, pot and all inside a clear plastic bag, or put a glass jar, or inverted clear plastic soda bottle over the top, creating a miniature greenhouse. This should keep your cuttings moist and in high humidity. Place the plants in a shady environment--don't put them in direct sunlight or you will cook them. Leave them covered until you begin to see active growth or they outgrow the container; then pot up or plant in the garden. If you have rambling roses with wild canes, you can also take cuttings or try layering the stems in and out of the ground.

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