Pale Green Shoots on Roses: Sucker or Sport?

Washed-Out New Growth

One rose bush pushed an 8-inch shoot with buds that turned pale, washed-out green with slight leaf curl. Rest of bush looks fine.

Rootstock Sucker Check

All grafted roses have a bud union (knobby bump). Dig gently beside the suspicious cane:

• Originating BELOW the bump: Rootstock sucker—remove it
• Originating ABOVE the bump: Part of the grafted variety—may be temporary coloration

Pale canes from rootstock (often Dr. Huey) are common. Confirm origin before deciding.