What naturally helps rose cuttings root faster?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.If you are seeking natural products to encourage rose cuttings to root more quickly without the use of commercial rooting hormones, willows, aloe vera, or honey can provide beneficial properties that promote easier root growth. These will work best in optimal growing conditions. I have used natural products for years when propagating roses with great results.
Willow Water has natural auxins, which can promote root development. Soak your cuttings in this solution for one night before planting them in your medium. Salicylic acid is found in fresh willow twigs, which promotes rooting in various plants. This method has been used for centuries and remains a go-to choice for organic gardeners seeking to stay chemical-free.
Prior to planting, apply fresh aloe vera gel to the stem ends. Its enzymes encourage cell regeneration and provide some antibacterial protection. Avoid the latex yellows near the rind and use the inner leaf gel instead. This creates a protective coating against rotting and acts as a rooting stimulant.
Preparation Methods
- Willow water: Steep fresh twigs in water for 24 hours
- Aloe vera: Apply fresh gel directly to cut ends
- Honey: Dilute raw honey 1:10 with warm water
Application Timing
- Treat cuttings immediately after making fresh cuts
- Reapply weekly for first three weeks
- Combine with optimal temperature maintenance
Keep the soil temperature at a constant 70-75°F for optimal results. This temperature range promotes the highest rate of root cell division. Use heating mats to warm your pots, or relocate them to a warmer area in the cooler months. Temperature regulation often offers greater advantages than natural additives.
Utilize these strategies to increase potential for success, starting each plant by soaking the pre-sprouted cuttings in willow water and then putting them in the gel. Improve rooting conditions and keep your rooting medium within the reasonable ranges of optimal temperatures for rooting. You have now achieved a protocol of use rivaling any commercial rooting hormone. My own trials, using combinations of willow water and gel, resulted in a success rate of about 75%.
When using natural methods, patience is critical. Rooting will take 1-2 weeks longer than hormone cuttings. You can monitor by performing weekly, gentle pulls. With consistent effort and following these natural methods, healthy cuttings will eventually form robust roots.
Read the full article: How to Grow Roses from Cuttings
