Montanans love their roses and other woody plants. The harsh weather can be devasting to many trees and shrubs. Winters, false Winters, Early Springs. Late Falls and the many other seasons of Montana weather can often confuse our plants. They become dormant, flower too early or late, or die.

Roses are a Montana favorite. The Rose hips make wonderful tea and are a common herbal use plant. Older rose varieties seem to be a heartier choice for our harsh weather. Once you find roses that you enjoy, it is important to recycle the cuttings and make new generations of these plants. Buying new roses and other trees and shrubs can be expensive. A 1-gallon potted rose can cost a fast $40.

Here’s how to make new plants from your originals. 

Roses are best cut after they are done blooming. Over the next 2 months, the plants will begin to rest for winter. You want to use the woody stems, closer to the bases. A long woody stem could make 3-4 8-inch stems cuttings. Most neighbors will be cutting back their roses for winter. This is a good time to get some variety.

Now dip them into a root hormone powder. Wrap toilet paper or a paper towel/napkin around the end to be rooted. Fill the gallon pot with wood chips and peat moss, loose dirt. Place the wrapped stems into the loose soil and water.

Now take an empty liter bottle that has the cap and bottom removed. Place this over the stems, to serve as a mini greenhouse. Place this in your greenhouse or outside out of the direct sunlight. I usually place a tray under the pot to allow extra water to stand. Keep the pot moist.

It will take a few weeks for the roots to take off. Remove the liter bottle and save it for the next rose parade. You can plant them in the garden or hold them over in the garage until next spring.

It is a good idea to cut back the roses in the Fall. Covering them with mulch, wood chips, or straw will help to protect them over the Winter.

Flowers make everything look and smell better!

Start some new roots!

Montana Grant