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Flatheaded Apple Borer in 'Double Delight' Rose: Recovery Plan

Borers in Rose Canes: Emergency Response

'Double Delight' center dead to main stock. Stem broke, revealing white rippled larva with black head spot—flatheaded apple borer. Owner asks why in rose.

Borers Target Weak Plants

Normally attack stressed/dying trees and shrubs. This one "confused."

Recovery: Hard Prune to 3 Inches

Roses regenerate from 1-2 inches of cane
Cut back hard → stimulates basal canes
'Double Delight' = strong grower → should recover
Weak growers may die

Standard Practice

When any rose struggles: cut to 3 inches. Often returns with more basal canes than before.

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