Growing roses from cuttings in baby diapers might sound unusual, but it is an interesting concept that involves creating a moist and nutrient-rich environment for the cuttings. The absorbent properties of baby diapers can help maintain the right level of moisture for the cuttings to root. Here’s a step-by-step guide for this creative approach:

Materials Needed:

  1. Rose cuttings (6-8 inches long)
  2. Baby diapers (unused and clean)
  3. Potting mix
  4. Pots or containers
  5. Plastic bags or plastic wrap
  6. Rubber bands or string
  7. Rooting hormone (optional)
  8. Watering can or spray bottle

Procedure:

  1. Prepare the Diapers:
    • Open up the baby diapers and remove the inner absorbent material. You’ll be using this material to wrap the rose cuttings.
  2. Take Rose Cuttings:
    • Select healthy rose stems for cuttings. Each cutting should be about 6-8 inches long and have at least two or three leaf nodes.
  3. Remove Leaves:
    • Remove any leaves from the lower part of the cutting to prevent them from being covered by the diaper material.
  4. Apply Rooting Hormone (Optional):
    • If you have rooting hormone, you can dip the cut end of each rose cutting into the hormone to promote root development.
  5. Wrap Cuttings with Diaper Material:
    • Place the cut end of each rose cutting onto the diaper material. Wrap the material around the cutting, securing it with a rubber band or string. Make sure the cut end is completely covered.
  6. Prepare Pots:
    • Fill pots or containers with a well-draining potting mix.
  7. Plant Wrapped Cuttings:
    • Plant the wrapped rose cuttings in the prepared pots. The diaper material should be in contact with the soil.
  8. Cover with Plastic:
    • Cover each potted cutting with a plastic bag or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect. This helps maintain humidity around the cuttings.
  9. Place in Indirect Light:
    • Put the potted cuttings in a location with indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may cause excessive heat inside the plastic covering.
  10. Monitor and Water:
    • Keep an eye on the moisture level inside the plastic covering. Water the cuttings if the soil feels dry. The diaper material will help retain moisture.
  11. Wait for Rooting:
    • Over the next several weeks, monitor the cuttings for signs of root development. Once roots are established, you can remove the plastic covering.
  12. Transplanting:
    • Once the cuttings have developed strong roots, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.

This method combines the absorbent properties of baby diapers with the need for a moist and humid environment during the early stages of rooting. Keep in mind that not all rose varieties may respond equally well to this method, so consider it as an experimental approach.