Transporting Rooted Rose Cuttings by Air: Dormancy Management

Rooted cuttings in carry-on luggage? Keep them growing, not dormant. Energy storage now = survival later.

Pre-Flight Care (Current Location)

• Keep under tree (bright shade) — maximizes photosynthesis
• Water normally — don't dry down
• No fertilizer — avoid soft growth

Packing for Flight

1. Wrap root balls in damp (not wet) paper towels
2. Enclose in plastic bags with air holes
3. Wrap entire plant in newspaper — protects leaves, buffers temperature
4. Place upright in carry-on. Do NOT check.

At Destination

1. Pot up immediately to 1-gal containers
2. Keep outdoors until serious cold arrives
3. First winter: garage/cool room (35-45°F), minimal water
4. Spring: harden off, plant out

Critical Question

How cold at destination? Zone determines first-year strategy. Reply with location for tailored advice.

Newspaper-wrapped cuttings have crossed continents in overhead bins. Yours will too.