From our perspective as rose plants, we are beautiful but susceptible to a variety of ailments that can compromise our health and beauty. Understanding these diseases from our point of view is key to providing the care we need to thrive.
This is one of our most common complaints. It begins as circular black or brown spots with fringed edges on our leaves, causing them to yellow and drop prematurely. This severely weakens us by reducing our ability to photosynthesize. To help us, please ensure we have good air circulation by proper spacing and pruning. Water us at the base in the morning so our leaves dry quickly. Apply a fungicide labeled for black spot, either as a preventative measure or at the first sign of infection, and always rake and dispose of fallen leaves in the trash to reduce overwintering spores.
This fungus appears as a white, powdery coating on our young leaves, buds, and stems. It distorts our new growth and can prevent our buds from opening properly. It thrives in warm days and cool, humid nights. To treat this, please avoid overhead watering. Prune our canes to open up our center for better airflow. Several fungicides are effective, including horticultural oils and neem oil, which can suffocate the fungus. Baking soda sprays (1 tablespoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon horticultural oil, 1 gallon of water) can also alter the leaf surface pH, making it less hospitable.
Rust appears as orange-red pustules on our leaf undersides and sometimes on our canes. These pustules release spores that can spread the disease, leading to defoliation and general weakness. Treatment involves removing and destroying any infected leaves or canes as soon as you see them. Improve air circulation around us and try to keep our foliage dry. Fungicides containing myclobutanil or tebuconazole are typically effective against rust. Ensure you apply to both the top and bottom of our leaves for full coverage.
This gray mold fungus attacks our flowers and buds, especially in cool, wet weather. It causes buds to droop and fail to open, and opened flowers develop brown, rotting spots covered in a gray, fuzzy mold. To manage Botrytis, promptly remove and discard any spent blooms or infected tissue. Ensure we are planted in a sunny location with good air movement to help dry our petals quickly after rain or dew. In severe cases, a fungicide specifically for Botrytis can be applied.
This is a fatal viral disease spread by a microscopic mite. From our perspective, it is a death sentence. Symptoms include excessive thorniness, bright red witch’s brooms (clusters of distorted growth), and deformed, discolored leaves. There is no cure. If you confirm we have RRD, we must be dug up and entirely disposed of in the trash—not composted—immediately to protect other roses from the same fate. Early detection and removal are critical for the health of the entire garden.
