INCREASING YOUR MINI GARDEN WITHOUT COST
By Patsy Williams, Master Rosarian

We are always looking for bargains - so how does free sound to you?  If you have some miniature roses that are at least three years or older and have made well-rounded plants, it's a perfect time to dig them up and divide these plants.  A miniature rose is propagated and grown on its own roots and that is what makes this easily possible to do.  Most miniatures have a tendency to get thick and woody as they age.  As minis age and become woody, flower production usually is diminished.  By dividing them at this time,  you rejuvenate them, plus you inherit another plant, maybe more.

STEP 1

Dig up plant.  Wash soil away from the entire root system so you can see exactly where the plant should be divided.

STEP 2

Using a keyhold saw or sharp pruners, divide the mini so that  you have sufficient root system for each plant.

STEP 3
(Optional, but advisable)

Mix 1/4 cup of Clorox to a gallon of water and dip the mini divisions into this solution for about 30 seconds and then remove.  This helps sterilize the root system from any unwanted bacteria, especially where the mini was separated or divided.

   STEP 4

Either pot up divided parts or plant them directly back into the bed.  We like to use a root stimulator solution (Green Light) to water them in and to promote new feeder root growth on the divided minis.

        STEP 5

Cover the newly divided minis with some soil to prevent cane dehydration until new feeder roots can develop.  Sit back and watch your newly divided plants grow and bloom.

Reprinted, with permission, from the January 2008 issue of The Houston Rose-Ette, the newsletter of the Houston Rose Society, Patsy Williams, Editor