I've been having success rooting roses lately, and I don't use any rooting products at all. I'm beginning to think the most important factor is the timimg of the cuttings. But, realize this is coming from a NEWBIE!

Robert

I agree with Robert. Good quality cuttings taken at the correct time will give you your best chance for roots.

Since you asked specifically about rooting hormones for different types of plants, check Dip n Grow liquid. It comes in a concentrate -- use a different strength depending upon whether you're rooting hardwood, semi-hardwood, or softwood cuttings. As far as roses are concerned, I notice no difference between the strike rate with Dip n Grow and plain old Rootone.

What were you thinking you'd use all those other products for?

Connie

What is the correct time to take cuttings to root?

A cutting taken at the correct time is one with a dead flower at the end of it. Ideally, you'll want to get the entire blooming lateral, right down to the spot where it joins the main cane.

I recently put a photo tutorial on one method of rooting roses as the first installment in the "How To" section of my web site. Check it out.

Here is a link that might be useful: Web Site

Thank you Connie, your tutorial was very informative, it explains the process of rooting cuttings very well.

I've had really great luck with the rootone, and I do most of my cuttings outside in the ground over the winter. I had no luck doing them in the summer..., I guess it was just too hot and the cuttings turned black. However, the problem with doing them outside over the winter is that it takes so long. It takes a full year for the roots to get established before I can move them. I start them in late Sept. and Oct and don't move them until the following fall so all summer they are establishing a strong root system.
I don't have room inside to grow them under lights for I use my small light system for rose seedlings.

Again thanks Connie, very nice web site you have, and I love your home, its very beautiful.

I dunno. Just general plants. Fruiting plants, vines, trees, shrubs, vegetative growth, softwood, hardwood.

I'm not convinced the heat is the problem in the summer. I had wonderful success in a very hot greenhouse...well over 100 degrees. My success was not with gallicas, albas, damasks, moss. I will try dormant cuttings of these this late autumn.

Robert

Robert - What method do you use for dormant cuttings? Hormone, mix. temps, bottom heat, etc. I have tried late fall but not dormant. I have heard that bottom heat from a pad worked on albas. Thanks. Best, Nick

You know it might just have to do with the temperature of the soil in the fall around here. It starts to get cold at night in the 50's, and perhaps there is no fungi growing to cause the cuttings to rot. I'm just guessing on this though. All I know is that when spring time comes I have roots on my cuttings. I use a clear plastic jug over the cuttings for humidity and it seems to work pretty well.