How to grow roses from a single stem into a beautiful blooming bush that will captivate anyone’s heart

Roses are beautiful and widely loved by many people. However, growing a healthy and vibrant rose plant is truly not an easy task. Not to mention, finding a reliable source to buy good quality rose plants can be a dilemma for rose enthusiasts, considering the cost involved.

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However, there is a very special, simple yet surprising way to plant roses that very few people know about: Planting roses with potatoes.

It may sound unbelievable, but this planting method is easy even for novice gardeners and cost-effective. If you follow the steps correctly and are patient, you will soon witness a well-developed rose bush with vibrant blooming flowers. Tintuconline invites you to refer to the following steps:

Essential components to prepare

PREPARATION:
–    A rose branch or a healthy and fresh rose with a length of about 20cm
–    A jar of honey
–    A large-sized potato
–    A nutrient-rich potting soil
–    A pair of scissors
–    A small spade for digging

Illustrating the process

IMPLEMENTATION:

Step 1: Dip the stem of the rose branch into the jar of honey.

Honey contains organic substances as well as antimicrobial properties. Soaking the rose branch in honey helps prevent harmful bacteria and fungi from developing during the rooting process.

Step 2: Insert the honey-dipped rose stem deep into the potato.

Potatoes provide sufficient nutrients, moisture, minerals, and especially hormones that stimulate rose branches to develop roots and supply sufficient nutrients for the growth of the flower bud.

As the potato decays, it becomes an excellent fertilizer for the rose bush to thrive and bloom.

Note: You can use a tool to create a hole with a size similar to the size of the rose branch on the potato beforehand to make it easier to insert the rose branch without causing any damage. Additionally, it is recommended to use scissors or a sharp knife to remove all the sprout eyes on the potato before inserting the branch to avoid it growing into a separate tree.

Step 3: Transfer the potato with the inserted rose branch into the potting soil and plant it.

Prior to this, loosen the soil and add water to ensure it is sufficiently moist. Dig a hole in the pot that is just big enough to accommodate the potato. Then, make sure to cover the potato with soil, leaving at least the part of the stem in contact with the potato exposed.

Step 4: Use scissors to cut the rose branch diagonally at a 45-degree angle (keep the bottom part, remove the flower). Then, trim off all the leaves and thorns on the rose branch.

Step 5: Take care of the rose bush and wait for the results.

During the initial days, place the pot with the rose bush in a shady area. The substances in the honey and potato will stimulate the rose branch to grow roots.

After about a week, when more growth is visible and the rose bush feels sturdier, it can be moved to a slightly sunnier location, as long as direct sunlight is avoided.

Alternatively, you can use a suitable plastic bottle, remove the neck part, and cap it over the rose branch. This method is similar to creating a mini greenhouse that stabilizes the temperature and provides moisture to the rose branch.

On a daily basis, keep the soil sufficiently moist to ensure optimal growth.

With persistence and dedication, one day you will soon see this rose bush flourishing, blooming, and producing beautiful, vibrant flowers. That feeling will be incredibly rewarding.

Wishing you success!

(Reference: Blossom)

By Vân Khánh – VietNamNet

Frequently asked questions

To grow a rose from a single stem, you’ll need to start by cutting a healthy stem just below a node (the small bump on the stem) with a sharp, clean knife or pruning shears. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving just a few at the top. Then, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a small pot with well-draining soil, keeping the node just above the soil surface. Water it regularly and provide indirect sunlight. Once roots have formed, you can transplant the young rose bush to a larger pot or your garden.

Roses prefer a slightly acidic, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can create this type of soil by mixing compost or well-rotted manure into regular garden soil. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.

Roses thrive in locations that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is particularly important. However, in extremely hot climates, afternoon shade is beneficial to protect the flowers and prevent them from drying out too quickly.

Water your rose bush regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be moist but not soggy. Ensure the water penetrates deeply into the soil rather than just wetting the surface. Water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid evaporation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

The best time to plant roses is in early spring or fall, depending on your climate. This gives the plant time to establish its root system before the extreme temperatures of summer or winter arrive.

Pruning is essential for the health and beauty of your rose bush. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing canes first, then cut back the remaining canes by about one-third to encourage new growth. Make your cuts just above an outward-facing bud at a 45-degree angle.

To prevent pest and disease problems, start by choosing disease-resistant rose varieties. Ensure your roses have good air circulation and avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Remove and destroy any diseased leaves or canes. Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pest populations. If problems arise, use organic or natural pest control methods first before resorting to chemical pesticides.

Use a slow-release, granular fertilizer specifically formulated for roses. Apply it in early spring, just as new growth appears, and again in early summer after the first flush of blooms. Follow the package directions for proper application rates and methods.

Yes, coffee grounds can be beneficial for rose bushes when used correctly. They help improve soil structure, encourage earthworms, and provide a slow-release source of nitrogen. Mix them into the soil around your rose bush or add them to your compost pile.

To encourage reblooming, deadhead your roses regularly. This means removing the old flowers just below the first set of five leaflets. This will redirect the plant’s energy into producing new blooms rather than forming rose hips.