Question
Hi ,
I live in zone 9a ,fl.I have a grandiflora " fame".I have recently started noticing black spots on the leaves of the plant.I bought..but not yet used a Fungicide called"fungicide 3"(by garden safe) which contains" clarified hydrophobic extract of neem".The bottle says its useful for black spots...I want to know your expert opinion on the use of this product and if its useful without burning the plant,and the time and frequency  of application of the product.Its been raining in the afternoons here and i was wondering if a evening application after the spores have settled down is a good idea?

If this product is not agood idea can you please suggest a a good effective one?

Thanks a lot,
Norma

Answer
Hi Norma-

Neem is supposed to be a all natural product, so I don't see how it can do any harm, and is a highly recommended ingredient in fungicides.  I'd be more concerned with the type of fertilizer.  I've heard people have killed the rose Fame during hot weather, just by using Miracle Grow - a highly concentrated fertilizer.  If you ever use this type of fertilizer on Fame, be sure to water before and after.

****I forgot to answer your last question.  If you are in non-stop rainy period right now - go ahead and spray on the wet leaves so it might help some.  However, for best results you need to spray on the leaves when they are dry.
So spray as soon as possible on the wet leaves, then in a few days spray again when the rains have stopped.  After that spray once a week until the blackspot is gone.  If it comes back - then you know you have the type of rose that requires maintenance spraying of at least once a week, and you'll have to spray after that on a weekly basis.


Carlene