Reviving a Large Garden Rose with Yellowing Lower Leaves

Rescuing an Established Rose in Ground

Apartment gardener adopted large in-ground rose. Spring bloom shows dry, dead-looking lower leaves (first year this happens). Found caterpillar-like bugs.

Immediate Care

• Remove dead canes + any thinner than pencil.
• Prune back by 1/3.
• Apply Osmocote 14-14-14 or rose fertilizer.
• Water deeply, especially in heat.
• Add bag of potting soil around base for improved root zone.

If Cold Winters

Wait until spring for hard prune. Current approach for mild climates.

Bug Note

Caterpillars likely rose slugs (sawfly larvae). Insecticidal soap on both leaf sides works.