How to Graft Desert Rose Plants

Desert rose blooms for much of the year.

As the name implies, the desert rose grows mostly in semi-arid regions, although it can also grow in more humid regions with proper care. The plant is actually a type of shrub that has a thick base and an abundance of pink flowers in the spring. Grafting a desert rose involves taking a cutting from another desert rose bush and attaching it to the desert rose plant. Over time, the new cutting grows into the desert rose bush and becomes part of the plant.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Knife
• Grafting tape

Instructions

1. Locate two existing desert rose plants. One plant will be the main plant, called the rootstock. The other plant will provide a cutting, called the scion.

2. Locate a branch on the plant from which you are taking the cutting that is approximately the same size as one of the branches on the rootstock plant. The closer the branches are to the same size, the better the chances of a successful graft. Make sure the branch you choose is also free of disease.

3. Cut off the selected branch as close to the trunk of the bush as possible, using pruning shears. Be careful not to cut into the actual trunk.

4. Cut 1 inch off from either end of the cutting using the pruning shears.

5. Lay the cutting on a flat surface and place a sharp knife 1 inch from the base. Turn the blade so that it is positioned at a 45-degree angle and cut toward the end of the cutting to create an angled cut. Repeat the procedure on the opposite end of the cutting as well.

6. Place the blade of the knife against one of the limbs on the rootstock plant. Position the blade at a 45-degree angle to the trunk with the blade facing downward. Cut downward into the trunk to create a 1-inch wedge cut in the main trunk.

7. Insert one end of the cutting into the cut you made on the rootstock plant. Make sure that the wedge side of the cutting faces the tree.

8. Wrap grafting tape around the trunk of the tree three to four times to secure the graft in place. Cut the tape off of the roll with scissors and tie it in a knot to secure it in place.

Tips & Warnings

• If the graft is performed in warm weather, leave the tape on for three to six weeks. If the graft is done in cold weather, leave the tape on until spring.

References

• Wanapluk Gardens: The Desert Rose
• Old Garden Roses and Beyond: Hints for Successful Grafting and Budding