Rose Mosaic Virus: Symptoms and Management

Many mosaic viruses exist, each affecting different plants. Rose mosaic virus is the most common viral disease of roses. New spring leaves show yellow zigzag patterns, spots, mottling; may be distorted. Summer leaves may not show symptoms. Effects vary: some infected plants grow/bloom normally; others grow slowly, bloom less, or show greater winter cold sensitivity.

Transmitted through infected rootstock or budwood during commercial propagation. If you buy an infected bare-root rose, you won't know until it leafs out. If discovered, remove and replace with virus-free stock (more growers are eliminating virus from stock).

There is no control for this virus.