Thrips on White Roses: Brown Petal Edges and Tiny Dots Signal Infestation

Louisiana gardener: white rose buds look dead/brown before opening; blooms have brown edges.

Thrips

Thrips (tiny fly-like bugs) prefer light-colored roses. They suck petal juice, causing brown edges and stippling (tiny brown dots).

Control

Use a rose insecticide labeled for thrips. Check label specifically for thrips.