Cuttings/lights/transplants

[jimtx]

How close to the lights should I keep the cuttings?

How many hours should the lights be on?

What is the technique for separating the rooted cuttings to place in individual pots? Am I going to have to be real careful with the new roots ... or ... are they pretty tough?

Thanks,

Jim

[Ann B.]

Place the lights about 4-8" above the top of the plastic bags.

I usually leave the lights on about 12-14 hours. If you don't have a timer, then simply turn them on when you get up and turn them off when you go to bed, unless you are one of those fortunate people who only need 2-4 hours of sleep per night.

When you are ready to repot them, carefully ease them out of the pot by holding the pot at a 90 degree angle, tap or squeeze the sides of the pots.

Place your hand over the top of the pot with your fingers spread out in such a way that each stem is between two fingers. Do not grasp the stems. Gradually tilt the pot shaking it gently until the loose soil falls from the top, then tilt more until all the stems with the new roots are completely out of the pot. Then gently separate the stems with your other hand, holding them by the stem and gently place them in their new pots. Sounds complicated, but it really isn't.

Be sure to lay out newspaper or have another pot underneath to catch the lose soil. It is important to hold the cuttings by their stems when potting them in separate pots. You can cup the palm of your other hand under the roots, but do not grasp the roots. Don't press down on the soil of the newly potted plant. Let the air pockets be removed by watering them. I have found that root stimulator is beneficial when transplanting, but don't get it confused with rooting hormone. They are two separate products.

Until you have practice, it is advisable to give the cuttings a few extra weeks before attempting this. This will allow the roots a chance to get stronger, and there will be less root damage. Remember some varieties of roses will root better and faster than others.

If you use a good soiless mix, it will not be compacted which will make it easier to transplant.