ROSE SEED
GERMINATION STEPS
Before
growing roses from seed, the rose seeds need to go through a period of cold
moist storage called “stratification” before they will sprout. Plant the rose
bush seeds approximately ¼ inch (0.5 cm.) deep in a seed-planting mix in
seedling trays or your own planting trays. The trays need not be more than 3 to
4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm.) deep for this use. When planting rose seeds from
various rose bush hips, I use a separate tray for each different group of seeds
and label the trays with that rose bush’s name and planting date. The planting
mix should be very moist but not soaking wet. Seal each tray or container in a
plastic bag and place them in the refrigerator for 10 to 12 weeks.
The next step in how to grow roses from seed is to sprout the rose seeds. After
having gone through their “stratification” time, take the containers out of the
refrigerator and into a warm environment of around 70 F. (21 C.). I do my best
to time this for early spring when the seedlings would normally be coming out
of their cold cycle (stratification) outside and starting to
Once in the proper warm environment, the rose bush seeds should start to
sprout. The rose bush seeds will usually continue to sprout over the course of
two to three weeks, but probably only 20 to 30 percent of the rose seeds
planted will actually sprout. Once the rose seeds sprout, carefully transplant
the rose seedlings into other pots. It is extremely important not to touch the
roots during this process! A spoon may be used for this seedling transfer phase
to help keep from touching the roots. Feed the seedlings with half-strength
fertilizer and be sure they have plenty of light once they start to grow. The
use of a grow light system works very well for this phase of the rose
propagation process. The use of a fungicide on the growing rose seeds will help
keep fungal diseases from attacking the rose seedlings at this vulnerable time.
Do not over-water the rose seedlings; over-watering is a major killer of
seedlings. Provide a lot of light as well as good air circulation to the rose
seedlings to avoid disease and pests. If disease does set in on some of them,
it is probably best to eliminate them and keep only the hardiest of the rose
seedlings. The time it takes for the new roses to actually flower can vary
greatly so be patient with your new rose babies. Growing roses from seed can
take some time, but you will be rewarded for your efforts.