Rose Rosette Disease: The Threat to Knockout and Drift Roses

Rose Rosette Disease (RRD) is a fatal viral infection now devastating Knockout and Drift rose cultivars—once thought resistant. Infected plants become distorted, ugly, and die within 2–5 years. There is no cure; prevention and early removal are the only defenses.

Recognize the Symptoms

• Distorted, stunted growth on leaves, canes, and blooms
• Witches' broom: dense, clustering stems
• Persistent bright red/mottled foliage (not normal new-growth red)
• Overall decline and death

Cause & Spread

RRD is caused by a virus vectored by the microscopic eriophyid mite (rose leaf curl mite). Mites ride wind currents from plant to plant. The virus likely originated in native U.S. roses, spread to invasive multiflora roses (imported from Asia), and jumped to landscape roses—including Knockouts and Drifts.

Management Steps

1. Dig up and destroy infected plants (roots and all), bagging debris.
2. Avoid replanting roses in the same soil.
3. Remove multiflora roses within 100 yards, or don't plant downwind of them.
4. Monitor for regrowth from root fragments.
5. Weekly sprays of Sevin, bifenthrin, horticultural oil, or insecticidal soap in June/July may suppress mites—but they're hard to control.

Stay Vigilant

RRD is heartbreaking, but with awareness and quick action, you can protect your garden. Choose resistant varieties where possible, and inspect roses regularly.