Complete Guide to Rose Propagation — Cuttings, Grafting & Division

Roses can be propagated through cuttings and grafting. From beginner-friendly methods to advanced techniques, let's explore each approach. Multiplying your favorite varieties by hand is one of the great pleasures of rose cultivation.

Softwood Cuttings

The most recommended method for beginners. In June after flowering or in autumn, cut 15cm from a well-developed branch, remove lower leaves leaving 3 nodes. Apply rooting hormone to the cut end and insert into vermiculite or akadama soil. Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and keep in bright indirect light; roots should develop in 4–6 weeks. Success rates are approximately 50–70%.

When selecting cutting material, use branches that have finished flowering. Too-thin or too-young branches lack sufficient nutrients for rooting—branches about pencil thickness are ideal. Cut the bottom at an angle to increase the cross-sectional area, improving water uptake and rooting.

Bud Grafting

With success rates above 80%, this is a method widely used by professionals. In summer, make a T-shaped incision in a Rosa multiflora rootstock and insert a bud from the desired variety, securing with grafting tape. This utilizes the vigorous root system of the rootstock for stronger growth.

Besides T-budding, there's also whip grafting, which involves cutting both rootstock and scion at angles and joining them in February. This requires more skill but works with thicker scions. Rootstock can be grown from Rosa multiflora seeds or purchased from specialty suppliers.

Division

Only possible for own-root roses (cutting-derived). Dig up the plant during winter dormancy and divide at natural separation points. For grafted plants, division means dividing the rootstock and is not suitable.

When dividing, ensure each portion has sufficient roots and 2–3+ branches. Portions with few roots take longer to establish, so avoid dividing too finely. Apply fungicide to cut surfaces and plant in fresh soil with thorough watering.

Recommendation for Beginners

Start with June softwood cuttings. You can use spent flower stems directly, making it easy to try. Miniature roses and hardy varieties are especially successful.

• Take cuttings in the cool morning hours
• Make an angled cut with a sharp knife
• Don't disturb after planting

Once cuttings have rooted, don't immediately transplant to a large pot—grow in a small pot until roots are well-established. After roots stabilize, move to a slightly larger pot and gradually acclimate to sunlight. First flowers can usually be enjoyed the following spring.

Propagation Notes and Plant Variety Rights

Some rose varieties are protected by plant variety rights or plant patents. Propagating registered varieties for sale without permission is prohibited by law, so propagate only for personal enjoyment. Check labels or purchase information for variety registration status before propagating.

Label propagated plants with variety names. When propagating multiple varieties simultaneously, it can become impossible to tell which is which after rooting.

Benefits of Buying on Buri-Choku

On Buri-Choku, you can purchase directly from specialist rose growers. Variety characteristics and regional climate suitability information is abundant, and plants suited to your area are available. Propagation advice is also available for beginners.