Rose
Rosa spp.
The queen of flowers. Growing roses from seed is a rare and rewarding challenge — each seedling is genetically unique. A project for the patient gardener.
hard
Full Sun (6+ hours)
Regular — deep watering at the base
2-3 years to first bloom from seed
How to Grow
Collect rose hips in autumn. Extract seeds and cold-stratify in damp sand in the fridge for 6-8 weeks. Sow in seed trays 0.5cm deep. Keep moist at 15-20°C. Transplant seedlings when they have 3-4 true leaves. Be patient — each seedling is unique.
Growth Phases
Stratification (6-8 weeks)
Cold treatment mimics winter to break dormancy
Germination (2-4 weeks)
Seeds sprout after cold period
Seedling (4-6 weeks)
First true leaves with serrated edges appear
Juvenile (3-6 months)
Stems harden and first thorns develop
First Bloom (1-3 years)
First flower opens — a unique surprise!
Care Tips
- •Cold stratification is essential — don't skip it
- •Each seed produces a genetically unique plant
- •Prune in late winter to encourage new growth
- •Watch for aphids and blackspot disease
Companion Plants
Community Interest
Real-time — updates when others show interest