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Now let’s see how to do it:
How to propagate a rose cutting
Propagating a rose using a piece of the aloe vera plant as a rooting agent is a technique known as aloe vera cuttings. Below, I outline the procedure for this interesting form of propagation:
Materials needed:
- A mature, healthy rose bush with a firm stem.
- An aloe vera plant with large, healthy leaves.
- Sharp, clean pruning shears or knife.
- Pot with good quality potting soil.
- A warm place with indirect light to place the cup.
Step-by-step procedure:
- Selecting roses and aloe vera: Choose a rose in good condition with a firm, healthy stem. Also, choose a large, healthy leaf from the aloe vera plant.
- Preparing the cutting: Using pruning shears or a clean knife, cut a piece of the rose stem about 10 to 15 centimeters long. Make sure to make a clean, angled cut of about 45 degrees just below a node (a small bump on the stem).
- Preparing Aloe Vera: Remove a large, healthy leaf from the aloe vera plant. Then, cut the leaf in half lengthwise, exposing the gelatinous pulp inside.
- Inserting the cutting into the aloe vera: Carefully insert the bottom of the rose stem into the aloe vera pulp. Make sure the cut end of the stem is submerged in the aloe gel.
- Planting the cutting in soil: Fill the pot with good quality potting soil and make a hole in the center with your finger or a pencil. Place the end of the rose stem inside the aloe into the hole in the soil, making sure it is firmly secured.
- Placement and Care: Place the pot in a warm spot with indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight, which could damage the cutting. Water it moderately to maintain soil moisture without waterlogging.
- Patience and observation: The cutting will need time to develop roots. Monitor its progress for several weeks and keep the soil slightly moist.
- Transplant into a larger pot: Once you see new leaves growing and feel resistance when you gently pull on the cutting, it’s a sign that it has developed roots. At this point, transplant the cutting into a larger pot so it can continue growing.
By following this procedure and providing proper care, you can propagate a rose using a piece of aloe vera as a rooting agent, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of both plants in the same place.