Dealing with Rose Diseases

by Piedro Molinero

To be sure that your appreciated roses stay in the best of health, just adopt these tips for your rose garden.

1. Black Spots on Leaves

This disease is usually called black spot. Black spots come along as circular with fringed edges on leaves. They make the leaves to yellow. Take away the infected leafage and collect any fallen leaves close to the rose. Artificial sprays can be applied to prevent or treat this sort of rose disease.

2. Stunted or malformed young canes

Called powdery mildew, this is a fungus disease that covers leaves, stems and buds with wind spread white powder. It causes the leaves curl and become purple. Spray with Funginex or Benomyl to treat this fungal disease.

3. Blistered underside of leaves

Called rust, this disease is characterized by orange-red blisters that become black in fall. It can come through the winter and will then attack fresh sprouts in the spring. Collect and throw away leaves that are contaminated in autumn. A Benomyl or Funginex spray every 7-10 days may help.

4. Malformed or stunted leaves and flowers

This is made by spider mites. They are tiny yellow, red or green spiders found on the underside of leaves where they absorb juices. The application of Orthene or Isotox can help in addressing this plague.

5. Weak and mottled leaves with tiny white webs under them

This is caused by aphids. They are small soft-bodied insects that are usually brown, green or red. Oftentimes clumped under leaves and flower buds, they suck plant juices from tender buds. Malathion or diazinon spray can help roses to come through these bugs.

6. Flowers that don't open or are deformed when they open.

Thrips could be the cause behind this problem. They are slight, brown-yellow bugs with fringed wings that also suck juices from flower buds. Cut back and throw away the plagued flowers. Orthene and malathion can also address this problem.

Remember that roses are hungry feeders that need much fertilizer to become healthy bushes.

About the Author
Piedro Molinero is a hobby gardener and you will be able to discover more useful DIY Gardening Tips on his blog.