Stay at Home Mother
28/02/2025
Best Time to Regrow Roses in WA
• Autumn (March-May) is ideal for planting and propagating roses because temperatures are cooler, and soil retains more moisture.
• Avoid propagating in extreme summer heat (December-February) since cuttings dry out quickly.
• Winter (June-August) is a good time for transplanting established roses while they are dormant.
How to Regrow Roses in Western Australia’s Dry Climate
1. Choosing the Right Rose Cuttings
• Take cuttings in the cooler part of the day (morning or late afternoon).
• Use semi-hardwood or hardwood stems from a healthy, disease-free rose bush.
2. Soil Preparation
• Roses prefer well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 - 7.0).
• If your soil is sandy (common in WA), improve it with compost and organic matter to retain moisture.
3. Protecting Cuttings from Drying Out
• Since WA’s dry heat can cause rapid moisture loss, create a humid environment:
• Cover the cuttings with a clear plastic bag or a cut-off plastic bottle to trap humidity.
• Mist the inside of the bag daily but avoid excess water.
4. Watering
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy—overwatering can cause rot.
• In hot weather, check soil daily and water when the top inch is dry.
5. Providing Shade & Light
• Place the cuttings in bright, indirect sunlight.
• Avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest part of the day (11 AM – 3 PM) to prevent dehydration.
6. Encouraging Root Growth
• Use rooting hormone powder or gel to speed up root development.
• If rooting in pots, use well-draining potting mix with perlite, sand, or coconut coir.
• Roots usually form in 3-6 weeks.
7. Transplanting into the Garden
• Once strong roots form, transplant into a permanent spot in early autumn or late winter.
• Choose a sunny spot (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily).
• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Bonus Tips for Growing Roses in WA’s Dry Climate
• Water deeply once or twice a week instead of frequent shallow watering.
• Apply a thick layer of mulch (straw, bark, or sugarcane mulch) to prevent water evaporation.
• In summer, provide some afternoon shade for young plants.
• Use drip irrigation instead of overhead watering to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.
• Fertilize lightly with a slow-release rose fertilizer in early autumn to encourage strong growth.
