I am happy to say that I have a new rosebush! This forward little chap is the first of my collection of cuttings to sport a bud. Well! If it's old enough to begin the reproductive cycle already, it is certainly old enough for its own pot!
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| Starting Young! A Pink Mini Bud on a Young Cutting |
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| Ready to Transplant |
Below is the crowd of my cuttings that made it out of the baggies and into yogurt pots to continue their root development journey in an actual pot. At this stage there are no guarantees; already one of these deceptively robust fellows shriveled up and died. Obviously, this time in their lives may be fraught with danger.
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| Already a Standout Among the Crowd Shown Here on January 4th |
However, I think I will have a few successes this year. Below, see how I have assembled my new rosebush, a scrubbed-in-bleach clay pot, and potting soil. It's a gorgeous sunny day and I am in the front yard IN SHORTS! (NOT shown!) It's hard to believe that it's January!
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| Assembled Equipment |
I am pleased to see some solid rooting and a nice root ball holding together.
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| Plenty of Healthy Roots |
A little gravel ( also washed in bleach) went into the pot first, then a layer of commercial potting soil. The little gal seems happy to stretch and breathe!
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| Getting Settled |
A good outdoor soak of water with a shot of vitamin B-1 solution, which is formulated for transplanting, and she's ready. A nice, sunny south window will make a perfect spot for her to grow through the winter. In the early spring, I'll start taking her on day outings to harden her off.
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| In Her New home |
The alabaster Bruce LaFountain sculpture, "Longing for Her Warrior" , though disdainful in general, seems to approve and be willing to share a spot on the antique chest for now.
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| The Bruce LaFountain Sculpture Approves |
It is gratifying to have a brand new rosebush for the garden next spring!
(You May Click to Enlarge the Above Photos)
That's a lot of free roses, Sandra. Congratulations! I had one of four cuttings started in band pots last September survive, but I'm ashamed to say I didn't give them the super care you gave yours. I gave away that one. I have one starting in the ground now looking good so far. Good job!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sherry! I won't feel 100% until the end of summer with any of them, and even then...
ReplyDeleteBut it's the process that we love so well; the things that actually turn out are like wonderful bonuses!
Sandra
Wow, Sandra, what good care you give your little babies! I hope you will post pictures when they bloom.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Masha, I sure will!
ReplyDeleteSandra
Hello Sandra and family!
ReplyDeleteI am just figuring out this blog thing...have lots to learn! Thank you for your lovely card- it really made my day, week, maybe longer!! I still am thinking of the wonderful things you said. Can't wait to visit and see this lovely garden in person this spring. We will for sure! Love- Anita
I am so very much looking forward to your visit, Anita!
ReplyDeleteSandra
Sandra, I have passed the Stylish Blogger Award to you. Your blog is linked on mine, and I hope more bloggers will enjoy it now like I have. Visit my blog if you would like to collect the award and pass it on.
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Southern California
ReplyDeleteI tried to add myself to follow you and received this error message:
"We're sorry...We were unable to handle your request. Please try again or return a bit later." I think the problem is on my end...not yours.
I invite you to visit and follow my blog if you want too, and I'll follow back when I'm able.
God Bless You :-)