If you’ve ever thought about buying a Desert Rose, think again! There’s an amazing way to propagate this beautiful plant without spending a single penny. I’m going to share with you a simple, effective technique that will allow you to grow your own Desert Rose from a cutting, and you’ll never need to buy one again!

What You’ll Need:

  1. Desert Rose cuttings – If you don’t have a Desert Rose, ask a neighbor or friend who has one. They will be happy to share a few cuttings with you.

  2. Ground cinnamon – This will help protect your plant from fungus.

  3. Super glue or any strong adhesive (such as Super Bonder) – This is key for sealing the cut ends of the stem.

  4. A small container with just a little water – Preferably, use water that doesn’t contain chlorine.

  5. Well-draining soil – Desert Rose plants thrive in soil that drains quickly, so make sure your pot has drainage holes.

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Prepare the Cuttings: Take several cuttings from the Desert Rose plant. You want pieces that are about 4-6 inches long. If you have never propagated a Desert Rose before, don’t worry—it’s easier than it seems!

  2. Apply Cinnamon: After cutting the stems, take some ground cinnamon and dust the cut ends. The cinnamon acts as a natural antifungal agent, helping prevent rot and infection from developing at the cut point. It also promotes healing for the plant. Make sure to cover the cut ends thoroughly.

  3. Seal the Ends: Now, take your Super Bonder or any strong adhesive and apply a small amount to the cut end of each stem. This may sound strange, but the glue is crucial for preventing excess moisture from entering the cut, which would lead to rot. The glue acts as a sealant, protecting the stem while it roots.

  4. Set the Cuttings to Dry: After sealing the cut ends, place your cuttings somewhere warm and dry. Allow them to sit for about 2 minutes to let the glue dry and form a protective barrier. The goal is to have the ends sealed off, which ensures they won’t rot when submerged in water.

  5. Prepare the Water Container: Grab a small glass or container, and fill it with just enough water to cover the bottom of the cuttings—about 1 inch deep. This small amount of water will encourage the development of roots without overwhelming the cutting with too much moisture. Use water that’s free of chlorine, as chlorine can harm the cutting.

  6. Place the Cuttings in the Water: Place the cuttings into the container of water, making sure the cut ends are submerged. Leave them in a location that gets indirect sunlight—avoid direct sun at this stage as it can dry out the cuttings too quickly.

  7. Wait for Roots to Form: Over the next 7 to 21 days, you should start to see roots forming on your cuttings. Be patient, as the process can take a little time. The roots will begin small but will gradually grow larger as the plant establishes itself. The longer you wait, the larger and stronger the roots will get—about 2 months for optimal growth.

  8. Transplant the Cuttings: Once the roots have developed enough, it’s time to plant the cuttings in soil. Choose a well-draining soil mix, such as one that includes sand, gravel, or perlite. You want the soil to drain quickly to avoid root rot. A mixture of good-quality potting soil, bone meal, and organic matter works well.

  9. Planting the Desert Rose: Carefully remove the rooted cutting from the water and gently plant it in a pot filled with your prepared soil mix. Make sure the roots are fully covered but not too deep. Water it lightly.

  10. Allow the Plant to Settle: For the first few days, keep the newly planted cutting in a shady area so it can adjust to its new home. After about 2-5 days, gradually introduce it to more sunlight. Start with indirect light, and after the roots are fully established, you can place it in direct sunlight, which is ideal for Desert Roses.

Care Tips for Your Desert Rose:

  • Sunlight: Desert Roses love bright, direct sunlight. Place them in a spot where they’ll receive plenty of light, but avoid placing them under scorching heat or they might get sunburned.

  • Watering: Be cautious with watering. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch, and ensure the pot has proper drainage.

  • Soil: Desert Roses thrive in well-draining soil. Make sure your pot has a drainage hole, and choose soil that isn’t too heavy or water-retentive.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful, healthy Desert Rose without spending a dime! Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, this technique is easy to follow and incredibly effective. Don’t forget to share this tip with others who might be interested in growing their own Desert Rose from a cutting—once you try it, you’ll never buy one again!

jardin