You can propagate Carolina rose (Rosa carolina) through seed, softwood cuttings, semi-hardwood cuttings, or stolon division (suckers), with cuttings being a common and effective method.
Here’s a more detailed look at each method:
1. Cuttings (Softwood or Semi-Hardwood):
- Timing: Take softwood cuttings (flexible, new growth) in late spring/early summer, or semi-hardwood cuttings (firmer, more mature stems) in late summer/early autumn.
- Procedure: Cut stems into 6-8 inch lengths with 2-4 nodes (where leaves emerge). Remove leaves except for the top set. Dip the bottom half of the cutting in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil, ensuring at least one node is below ground. Keep the soil moist and cuttings protected from frost.
Tips:
- Choose stems between a withered bloom and the rose’s woody base.
- Remove the bloom and stem tip.
- Cut at a 45-degree angle above the first set of leaves at the top and above the last set of leaves at the stem’s bottom.
- Keep cuttings moist at all times.
2. Seed Propagation:
- Timing: Collect seeds in the fall, process them, and sow in a greenhouse in February.
- Procedure:
- Seeds have a double dormancy and require a 4-week warm, moist treatment followed by a 12-week stratification period.
- Sow treated seeds in a greenhouse in February and grow in 9-cm pots.
- They are ready for outplanting in June after a 1-2 week hardening period.
3. Stolon Division (Suckers):
- Procedure: Carolina rose spreads by rhizomes, so you can propagate it by dividing the plant and replanting the new shoots (suckers) that emerge from the roots.
- Tips:
- Give the plant plenty of space, or pull suckers to contain it in a smaller garden.
- You can also control the spread by removing rhizomatous growth as it occurs.
4. Root Cuttings:
- Timing: Take root cuttings in the autumn or winter season
- Procedure: Dig up the plant and carefully select healthy roots.
- Cut the roots into 2-3 inch sections. Plant the root cuttings in well-draining soil, ensuring at least one node is below ground. Keep the soil moist and cuttings protected from frost.
General Tips for Propagating Carolina Rose:
- Sunlight: Carolina rose thrives in full sun, but tolerates part shade.
- Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained, as it is susceptible to fungal problems if kept too moist.
- Water: Provide regular watering, especially during the establishment phase.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Carolina rose is generally more resistant to diseases than many other rose varieties.