Common Rose Pests

On account of my unexplainable addiction to British television, growing roses in our backyard was one of my goals a few years back. Much to my chagrin though, growing roses is much like an ongoing battle against everyday pests, instead of general tweaking with the bushes while sipping on my Earl Gray tea. Making the Earl Gray tea was the only part that I was successful at in the beginning. As the battle continued, some successful war strategies were developed and supported by side of the battle.

Rivals in the battle and counterattack:

Rival #1. Japanese beetles: Although the British beetles were allies, Japanese beetles are a common betrayer in gardening roses. The appearance of these pests are much like an everyday beetle however these have metallic green head and thorax with copper-colored wings. The common symptoms are seen during the months of July to September as large bites taken out of the leaves and petals. Prevention includes purchasing pheromone traps or by the use of sprays of pyrethrins, rotenone, neem, malathion, and/or carbaryl (Sevin). Most local gardening centers and grocery stores have been increasing the amounts of available sprays. If using traps, it is important to empty them before they have completely filled up. If using sprays, it is important to keep children and pets away from the plants while spraying and wet.

Rival #2. Aphids: These tiny sucking insects feed on the plants sap and are usually on the younger plants, especially those that have been over fertilized with nitrogen. The common symptom is seen on the leaves which turn black with sooty mold. Prevention includes purchasing insecticidal soap to spray and clean off the mild up during the morning hours. This can also be done by hand however I prefer to use the insecticidal soap instead. While fertilizing, avoid high-nitrogen contents and make sure to follow the directions that are given on the package. In addition, encouraging ants, wasps, and lady beetles will assist in eating away from of the aphids and clear away the issue naturally.