Other problems that can occur are graft incompatibility, resulting in reduced vigor and death, as well as the transmission of rose mosaic, a virus infection that reduces the rose's performance. Budding is often the only option in commercial production since not all roses can be successfully rooted or produce a very poor root system on their own. Budding may also be the only way to maintain a specific cultivar. The other method of propagation is softwood cuttings, producing roses offered as own-root roses. Many of the old garden roses are offered as own-root roses and provide distinct advantages, especially for northern gardeners.
Plants grown on their own roots also tend to be longer-lived.
Also, since the root system is genetically identical to the canes, one is assured that the new basal canes produced each year are true to the cultivar. This is especially important where severe winters often kill roses to the ground. Many roses, both modern and old garden roses, are now offered as either budded or own-root roses. Suppliers should be able to tell the gardener what type of plants they offer.