Rose Care Guide: Common Diseases, Pests, and Treatments

Roses are the world's most popular and well-known flower, beloved for their beauty and fragrance. If you're growing your own, here's how to keep them healthy.

Common Rose Diseases

Black Spot

Circular black spots with fringed edges on leaves. Remove infected foliage or treat with chemical sprays.

Rust

Orange or red blisters on leaves. Treat with organic antifungal spray or remove affected leaves.

Powdery Mildew

Fungal infection spreading across the plant. Apply antifungal spray immediately to prevent spread.

Common Rose Pests

Spider Mites

Cause stunted, malformed flowers and damaged leaves. Submerge the whole plant in water to kill mites; add treatments to water for greater effectiveness.

Aphids

Brown, green, or red bugs sucking plant juices. Introduce beneficial predators like ladybirds or spray pesticide.

Thrips

Winged brown-yellow bugs causing distorted flowers that may fail to open. Treat with neem oil spray.

If managing these issues feels overwhelming, buy fresh bouquets from a local florist or have them delivered via Interflora.

Maricruz Tennill, retired gardener and rose enthusiast, recommends Interflora for Romford florists.