Is it better to grow roses from cuttings or grafted seedlings? (Which is better, rose cuttings or grafted seedlings?)

Is it better to use cuttings or grafted roses?

Of course, grafted seedlings are better, and cutting seedlings are a little worse, but overall they are still good. Otherwise, why do many nurseries, including flower lovers, like to use cuttings to propagate roses?

Just because cutting seedlings have advantages, grafted seedlings also have their advantages. What are the specific differences between them? Why are grafted seedlings sold at a high price? Let's analyze it

① The root types of cuttings and grafted seedlings are different

Cutting seedlings are what we usually call rose seedlings that are grown from cuttings of rose branches. Grafted seedlings generally refer to rose seedlings grafted with rose roots (seed roots).

There is a difference in the root types of these two. I posted a video comparison before. In general, the cutting roots have no taproots, all are lateral roots, and the lateral roots are all capillary roots.

Grafted seedlings are basically grafted with rose seedling roots, so their root shape is better and the seedling roots have a taproot.

Because it is grown from seeds, there is a main root in the middle of the seedling that drills into the ground, with lateral roots next to it.

Generally, we use seedling roots for bonsai, which have beautiful root shapes and are vigorous and strong. Because of the different root shapes, the growth of the two is also different in the later stage. The growth of grafted roses is stronger than that of seedling roots.

Rose seed root

② Grafted seedlings are more expensive than cutting seedlings

Generally speaking, the rose seedlings sold on the market are grafted seedlings, which are more expensive than cutting seedlings. Why are they more expensive?

It is very simple to grow cuttings. A healthy rose branch can be cut into pieces with two buds. After the potting soil is prepared, it will take root in about a month after being inserted into the soil, and can be transplanted to the pot in about 2 months. It is very simple.

However, grafted seedlings need to be grafted, and skilled workers are needed. Moreover, the seedling roots need to be cultivated for more than half a year. After grafting, the crown width cannot be formed all at once, and continuous pruning and cultivation are required.

These processes require manpower, and these costs will naturally be passed on to customers. Ultimately, grafted seedlings are more expensive than cuttings.

There is a reason why it is expensive. After grafting, the scion rose is provided with a strong root system. The rose has a well-developed root system, grows fast, and has a strong adaptability, so the grafted rose will naturally grow well.

③ Grafted seedlings also have disadvantages

Grafted seedlings do not have all the advantages. There are also places where cutting seedlings are better than grafted seedlings. Because grafted seedlings use rose roots as rootstocks, if they burst later, they will be rose shoots, not rose shoots.

Therefore, grafted seedlings basically don't expect to sprout. Even if they do sprout, they are roses and need to be removed. If the rootstock is not handled well during grafting, there will be many buds in the later stage, which are difficult to handle. This is also a disadvantage of grafted seedlings.

In comparison, there is no such problem for cuttings seedlings. The bursting shoots are rose shoots and do not need to be removed.

Generally speaking , grafted seedlings are better than cuttings. If you can choose, choose grafted seedlings.