Introduction: Roses are one of the most popular and beloved flowers in the world and are prized for their beauty and fragrance. Growing roses from cuttings is an inexpensive and rewarding way to propagate these exquisite plants. Although there are various synthetic rooting hormones available in the market, using aloe vera as a natural alternative can be an effective and eco-friendly option. In this article, we will walk you through the process of growing roses from cuttings using aloe vera as a natural rooting hormone.

Materials required:

  1. Healthy rose cuttings
  2. Aloe vera leaf or aloe vera gel
  3. Sharp garden shears
  4. Potting soil (well drained)
  5. Small pots or containers
  6. Plastic bags or plastic film
  7. Rubber bands or cable ties
  8. Watering can or spray bottle
  9. A warm and bright place

Step by step instructions:

  1. Selection of healthy rose cuttings:
    • Choose a healthy rose bush and take cuttings from young, green stems that have not yet bloomed.
    • Each cutting should be about 15 to 20 cm long and contain at least two sets of leaves.
  2. Preparation of Aloe Vera:
    • If you are using an aloe vera leaf, carefully cut a small section from the base of the leaf.
    • If you are using aloe vera gel, extract the gel by cutting the leaf lengthwise and scraping it out.
  3. Preparing rose cuttings:
    • Using sharp garden shears, cut the bottom of each rose cutting at a 45-degree angle just below a leaf node.
    • Remove any leaves or flowers from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving only the top set of leaves.
  4. Use of Aloe Vera as a root hormone:
    • Dip the cut end of each rose cutting into the aloe vera gel or fresh aloe vera leaf section.
    • Make sure the entire cut end is covered with a thin layer of aloe vera.
  5. Planting rose cuttings:
    • Fill small pots or containers with well-draining potting soil.
    • Insert the aloe vera-coated end of each rose cutting into the soil, burying at least one leaf node below the surface.
  6. Creating a mini greenhouse:
    • Cover the pots or containers with plastic bags or plastic wrap to create a small greenhouse effect.
    • Secure the plastic cover with rubber bands or cable ties.
  7. Create ideal conditions:
    • Place the pots in a warm, bright place without direct sunlight.
    • Always keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Use a spray bottle or a watering can with a fine nozzle to water the cuttings.
  8. Rooting process:
    • After a few weeks, check root development by gently pulling on the cuttings. If they resist, this indicates successful rooting.
  9. Transplanting:
    • Once the cuttings have formed roots (usually after 6-8 weeks), transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden.

Conclusion: Growing roses from cuttings using aloe vera as a natural rooting hormone is a simple and eco-friendly method that can yield beautiful rose plants. With patience and proper care, you can enjoy a garden full of stunning roses that you propagated yourself. Give this natural approach a try and watch your roses thrive.