Help my rose bush!
Elaine Asked
My rose bush looks terrible! Can I prune it now? Can it be saved?
Thank you!
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Elaine. Thank you for sending a reference photo along with your question. It appears from the picture that your rose has Rose Rosette Disease. The thick red stems, excessive thorniness, and abnormal growth are classic symptoms. This virus is spread by microscopic mites that feed on susceptible roses and transmit the disease vascularly. Unfortunately, once the plant is infected, there is little we can do to prevent future spread. Removal of the rose and the roots are recommended to prevent spread to other multiflora roses. The link below is a publication from the Cooperative Extension Service in collaboration with University of Kentucky. For more detailed information about this virus visit: ppfs-or-w-16.pdf (uky.edu). The Pulaski County Cooperative Extension will be a great resource for you. Contact them at (606) 679-6361 about bringing in a bagged sample for diagnosis.
Angie Oakley
Kentucky Living-Ask the Gardener
