How to propagate Desert Rose by cuttings?

Desert rose is not a rose that grows in desert areas, and it has nothing to do with roses. It is named because its origin is close to the desert area and its flowers are as bright as roses. It is currently more common in Fujian, Guangdong and Guangxi regions, and Inner Mongolia in South China. Many people like to cultivate this plant. So how to propagate desert roses? Let’s take a look below.

1. Choose a healthy mother plant

Choose a healthy desert rose that is free of pests and diseases as the mother plant. A healthy mother plant can provide sufficient nutrients and growth hormones, which is conducive to the success of cuttings.

2. Prepare tools and materials

Prepare sterilized scissors or sharp knives , and fresh river sand, perlite or sandy soil as the cutting medium. In addition, you can also prepare some rooting powder or plant growth hormone (such as willow water) to promote the rooting of the cuttings.

3. Take cuttings

In spring or fall, select vigorously growing, healthy branches for your cuttings. The length of the cuttings is generally 10 to 15 cm, and make sure there is at least one growth point on the cuttings. Use sterilized scissors or knives to cut the cuttings from the mother plant, making sure the cut is smooth to avoid damaging the cuttings.

4. Processing the Cuttings

Cut the lower end of the cuttings at an angle to increase the water absorption area. Then, dip the lower end of the cutting into a plant growth hormone or dip it into rooting powder to encourage rooting. If you don't have plant growth hormones or rooting powder, you can also apply finely ground sand to the cut to better absorb nutrients and water.

5. Insert the cuttings

Insert the treated cuttings into the substrate to a depth of about half the length of the cutting. Avoid shaking the cuttings and insert them firmly into the substrate. Then, gently compact the soil around the substrate with your hands so that the cuttings are firmly combined with the substrate.

6. Transplantation

When the cuttings have sprouts, new roots and are growing well, they can be transplanted into new pots for care. Be careful when transplanting to avoid damaging the roots and leaves of the cuttings.

By following the above steps, you can successfully carry out the cutting propagation of Desert Rose. It should be noted that during the entire process of cutting propagation, good ventilation and moist substrate should be maintained, and excessive fertilization and watering should be avoided to ensure the growth and development of the cuttings.