The multifloras around here look asymptomatic. That's what is so confusing. My neighbor didn't want me removing the multiflora that grows on the bank of the creek that separates our properties. The roots hold up the bank, so I understand,.
We have ancient hedgerows with hedgeapple, cedar, russian olive and multiflora. They were planted at least every mile here. probably in the 1930s.
Steve, thank you for the link and explanations. Our local rose society has cussed and discussed the topic. A few members spend their retirement traveling to great gardens, and they've gone on hort tours with experts who are working on the RRD issue. We've talked to Bayer reps ( I used to be a Bayer rep also) and reps from Weeks along with researchers at the college level.
The work Steve cited makes the most sense to me.
We have a large colony of wild bees on the property--the beekeeper who moved them from the wall of our house to a box out in the yard estimated it at 50,000 bees. I can't/won't use insecticides, even if it means I give up roses.
There are various shrubs on the property who have witches' broom here and there, and I cut them off when they show. I wonder if it's the same phytoplasma?
I'm interested in the tetracycline aspect. Might do some googling on that after dark tonight.
