Unfortunately, roses can be highly susceptible to a number of different diseases. Prevention is always better than cure and the easiest way to do this is to plant hardier rose varieties. Some rose varieties require more care than others, and if you feel you don’t have much time to devote to your roses, ensure you plant the hardier types.

The next step in prevention is sunlight. Plant your roses where they will receive at least six hours of sunlight a day. Whilst some varieties are more shade tolerant, fungus and mildew are more likely to attack plants that don’t get as much sun.

Planting a variety of different flowers and plants around your roses rather than a monoculture of only roses will also help prevent disease as it creates a more balanced ecosystem, attracts natural predators and helps keep disease in check. Finally, ensure that your roses are planted in well-drained soil so they don’t stand in water and also don’t use too much fertilizer on your plants as this attracts diseases.

Curing Common Problems

Here is a list of some of the more common problems occurring on roses and some tips and guidelines to cure them. A golden rule is not to wait, check your roses often and tackle a problem as soon as you see it.

Aphids and Spider Mites
These little insects like to suck the sap out of your roses, causing the roses to dry out. Ladybird beetles are natural predators of aphids so encourage those insects in your garden. Otherwise, a solution of soapy water will wash these infestations away.

Black Spot
This is one of the most common diseases affecting roses and is caused by a fungus that affects the rose canes and causes black spots to appear on the plant leaves. The first line of attack is to immediately prune away the infected areas. To prevent this fungus from attacking your plants, make sure you water the base of the plant and try not to water the foliage and flowers.

As this disease progresses, you will see black spots on the leaves with a yellow ring around them. Eventually the black spots grow until the entire leaf turns yellow and falls off the bush. Use Bordeaux Mix to get rid of black spot and other fungal diseases.

Canker
Another disease caused by a fungus which results in black spots on your rose plant. Eventually the rose canes will turn black or brown. You should prune away any of the diseased areas.

Rust
Rust is also a fungus infection which can be treated with fungicides. Apply fungicide at the first sign of disease as the longer you allow the fungus to grow the more difficult it is too manage. As part of the treatment, you should also remove all dead and seriously infested leaves, flowers and stems.

Midge
In this case, a tiny insect lives inside your rosebuds and damages them. Once again, you have to prune any affected areas to get rid of this problem.

Remember, prevention is better than cure and early detection and quick action is essential.