Rose Stems Break

Question

If a larger stem of a new baby rose plant comes off, can you put it in water to regrow a root, or put it in dirt? Am I just wasting my time and should I simply throw it out? The stem is about 7 inches tall with lots of leaves and thorns.

Answer 1

This has been done with miniature roses with some success, so it is not impossible. Make a fresh cut at the bottom of the stem/cane that broke off, and using a sharp knife, make a slit up two opposite sides of the stem/cane about 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch up, rocking the knife back and forth lightly to open up the slit just a little. Dip it in water after making the cuts and then dip it into some Root Starter powder. Get as much of the powder as you can to cling to the cut and slit ends of the stem/cane. Then place that mix into a 3- to 4-inch plastic or peat pot, tamping lightly. Use a pen or pencil to make a planting hole in the center at least half way into the pot. Add some water and let it soak in. Now take the stem/cane that has been dipped into the Root Starter Hormone powder and place it into the pot of soil (or perlite/vermiculite mix). You should trim the broken cane or stem up enough that it will not be too large. Water the planted stem/cane well. Place a clear plastic bag over the entire rose stem and pot, but make sure it fits loosely so their is some good air circulation. Sit in a sunny window, under a grow light or even outside in a sunny location. Do not let it dry out. If you sit it outside, a clear mason jar can be placed over the entire thing.