Question
I have 8 arose bushes planted on the east side of the house. This year they have developed a waxy, sticky , shine substance on the leaves and on the buds. How do I fix this problem? I live in El Paso, Texas

Answer
What you are describing are Aphids which are tiny semitransparent insects 1/8 inch long that cluster on new growth and flower buds. They suck the juice from the plant and secrete the sticky substance which attracts ants because it is sweet. The problem with Aphids is they can carry and spread diseases. You should be able to see them as they tend to form clusters of many Aphids. I would wash the roses off with the hose, making sure they are very wet and dripping water. This will discourage any more returning. Then there are many sprays for Aphids which are soil friendly because Aphids are really easy to get rid of. Safers puts out a good one but any spray that says it kills Aphids will do. Most of the time all you have to do is hose the plants down but because you have got such a big infestation that is damaging your roses, I would use a spray on the bugs.