Double Knock Out Buds Browning Before Opening: Rose Midge

Tiny Insect Destroying Buds from Inside

Two double Knock Outs have buds that turn brown and die before opening.

Cause: Rose Midge

Eggs laid at bud base. Larvae hatch, eat bud tissue. Look for pinpoint hole at bud base. Open bud—see tiny worms?

Control

• Remove all affected buds.
• Use Ortho spray labeled for rose midge (systemic preferred).
• Spray soil around base.