Question
Good morning!

I have mused and worried over a problem which hit one of my rose beds last month.  

I have a bed which I consider my 'star' rose bed, made up of Austins and some select Floribundas.  This bed was planted over 5 years ago, and started this year more vigorous than ever.  Absolutely gorgeous,and people come to fence from street just to look at it.  

Anyway, About a month ago, I noticed my Bill Warriner, my Glamis Castle, Scentsation and French Lace began to suddenly yellow, drop leave, stems weaken and basically die while in fuul bloom!  

I yanked them up in tears, and thru them in garbage and mourned.  

The only think I can think of, is that I did put some pine bark mulch, as I do every year, on soil under roses, after pulling out the violas and snapdragons I plant in this bed over the winter. Was the mulch 'contaminated?  The other roses seem to be doing fine.  These I mentioned were all 'together, but the others in direct proximity are doing fine.  

I took a chance.  Roses at nurseries are all on sale right now.  I couldnt stand the 'gap' in the bed.  I planted a Barbra Streisand, Shielas Perfume and Angel Face.

Any thoughts or advice you have would be appreciated.  

Answer
When a rose acts the way you have describe then the problem is definately in the roots. It could be as simple as not getting water deep enough to the roots. It could also be that someone was using a herbicide near by and it drifted onto the roses. But I think you hit th nail on the head when you mentioned the new mulch. There was something in that mulch that killed the roots of your roses. I wouldn't hesitate to go after the supplier and let him know what happened. It just might have been some gasoline from his truck that did the job as roses will not tolerate any petroleum products. Be careful with the new ones as they may go the same way. If they do don't throw them away but wash the roots off well, take all the leaves off and cut the bush back by a half. Replant them in a different area and I think you will save them. Hope this helps. Lynnette