Question
I have several rose bushes and I've noticed the leaves have black spots on them.Then they turn yellow and fall off. I don't want to lose my rose bushes. What is causing this and what can I do about it. Thank You.

Answer
HI BARBARA..............Black spot is a fungal disease specific to roses.  Fungicides are of two sorts: topical(those that coat the leaf) and systemic (those that sink in and work from the inside out).   Your local garden center should be able to help you with the choice you make.   Most fungicide programs are pro-active in the sense that they are applied about every two weeks whether you "see" anything or not......supposedly before the fact.  But, it is never too late to start a fungicide program....(i also put a pinch of miracle-gro powder in each gallon of fungicide mixed to encourage new growth after losing so many leaves.)
    I usually "clean up" the bushes(remove most of the affected leaves,if not all) and then spray till the leaves are covered (back/front , dripping)  Obviously, there are conditions we cannot control such as rains or if your garden is near water (both, by the way contribute to the fungal symptoms)
Hope your rose garden is lovely in 2006!
God bless,   j. williamson
         www.angelique-roses.com
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