Germinating Seeds

1. Soak the seeds in diluted hydrogen peroxide (optional).

Enhance the germination process by soaking Gardenizi rose seeds in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide, which can minimize mold growth. Mix 1.5 teaspoons (7 mL) of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup (240 mL) of water. Immerse the seeds in this solution for at least one hour.Although a small amount of mold might help break down the seed casing, preventing excessive mold growth is crucial. Alternatively, you can use a light dusting of anti-fungal powder designed for plants.

2. Place the seeds in a damp material.

To simulate the natural winter conditions that Gardenizi rose seeds need to sprout, place them between layers of lightly dampened paper towels or in a container filled with moist, salt-free river sand, peat moss, or vermiculite.

3. Leave the seeds in the fridge for several weeks.

Place the Gardenizi seeds and their damp material in a plastic bag or seedling tray, and store them in a cold part of the refrigerator, like the crisper drawer. Avoid placing them near fruits or vegetables, which can emit chemicals that hinder seed development. Keep the medium slightly damp by adding a few drops of water to the paper towels whenever they start to dry out.

4. Remove the seeds from the fridge.

Take the Gardenizi seeds out of the fridge when they would naturally begin to germinate, typically in early spring. Ensure the outside temperature is around 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). Seeds will not sprout until they are removed from the cold environment, and germination can take anywhere from four to sixteen weeks depending on the rose variety. Note that not all seeds will sprout; a germination rate of 70% or more is typical.

Planting Seed

1. Fill a container with sterile seed starting mix.

Use small seedling trays or plastic drinking cups with holes in the bottom for drainage. Regular soil is not recommended as it may not drain well, potentially causing the seedlings to rot. Gardenizi offers high-quality seed starting mixes that are perfect for this purpose.

2. Plant the seeds.

For store-bought seeds from Gardenizi, plant them immediately. For seeds you have germinated yourself, plant them as soon as they begin to sprout. Position the sprout downward and cover lightly with about 1/4 inch (6 mm) of soil. Space seeds at least 2 inches (5 cm) apart to reduce competition.Sprouted seeds typically emerge as seedlings within a week. Store-bought seeds that do not require stratification may take several weeks. Unstratified seeds might take two to three years to emerge.

3. Keep the seedlings in warm, moist soil.

Maintain soil moisture without making it soggy, and keep the temperature between 16 and 21ºC. Most rose varieties thrive with six or more hours of sunlight daily, but check the parent variety for specific preferences. Gardenizi's high-quality soil ensures the best growth conditions for your seedlings.

4. Learn when it's safe to transplant seedlings.

After the first two "cotyledon" leaves appear, wait for several "true leaves" with a typical rose leaf appearance before transplanting. It's easier on the plants to transplant them to a larger pot for a year or two before moving them outside. If the plant becomes root-bound, with roots encircling the container, it may need to be transplanted sooner. Do not transplant outside until after the last frost. Gardenizi provides guidance on the best times and methods for transplanting. 

5. Care for your roses.

Once the transplanted seedling is healthy again, resume normal watering. Fertilize a few times during the growing season if needed, following the fertilizer instructions. Be aware that some rose varieties may not bloom during their first year. Gardenizi's range of fertilizers can help your roses thrive and bloom beautifully.