Grow a Rose from a Cutting Easy Steps to Multiply Beauty Start with a healthy stem, green and firm. Trim it just below a node, remove blooms, and leave just a few top leaves. Dip the base in rooting hormone optional, then plant it halfway into moist, well-draining soil. Cover with a plastic bag or bottle to create a mini greenhouse. Keep it in indirect sunlight and water lightly but regularly. In 36 weeks, roots begin to grow. When new leaves appear and the stem resists a gentle tug, its time to transplant into a pot or garden bed. This simple process turns one rose into many a rewarding way to fill your garden with blooms born from love and care.