| I have 5 rose bushes in pots. 4 of them are lined up against the fence, and the 5th is off by itself. The last few weeks I've noticed the leaves on 4 of the roses turning yellow and dropping off. It started on one end of the line, and now all 4 are exhibiting the same problem. However, the one standing by itself is not having this problem. The leaves start turning yellow slowly, and when they're fully yellow, they get large black spots on them, and then they fall off. It is not blackspot, allthough it may be another mildew disease. It started on the lower leaves, and it takes a few days for the leaves to turn completely. But it is now spreading. I am growing the roses organically, and would appreciate any assistance you may offer. I will spray them if that's my only choice to save them, but I would definitely prefer not to. |
| Although it might be a secondary infection, it sounds more like a typical black spot fungus that's affecting your roses. Black spot is caused by Diplocarpon rosae, a fungus that overwinters on old diseased leaves and infected canes. Leaves are most susceptible while expanding. After fungal spores land on leaves, it takes at least 9 hours of leaf wetness for the spore to infect. Fungal fruiting bodies form in 11-30 days. A new crop of spores is produced and spreads to healthy portions of the plant by splashing rain or irrigation water. Spores do not survive in soil but do survive on all infected plant debris. The natural genetic variability of the fungus means roses found resistant in one location may be susceptible in another location due to the presence of different fungal strains. Also, resistant roses may become susceptible after a few years due to changes in the local fungal population. The symptoms of black spot begin with circular black spots, frequently with fringed margins. Yellowing and defoliation are common in susceptible cultivars. In wet weather, spots may become very severe and run together, making large irregular spots. Control practices include avoiding dense plantings (good air circulation all around the plant is important). Avoid overhead watering. Rake up and remove all leaves at the end of the season. You can try removing the yellowing leaves as soon as you notice them, but I suspect the canes might also be infected. A copper-based fungicide should stop the disease in its tracks. Or, since it's early in the season, you might try pruning your plants to remove any suspect wood and foliage. Best wishes with your roses. |
