Rose Bush Fungus
To the dismay of rose growers, rose bushes are vulnerable to numerous and sometimes devastating pests and diseases. In addition to problems with nematodes and viral infections, roses can be plagued by fungus infestations. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types
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Roses can suffer from several fungal diseases, including black spot, powdery mildew, botrytis blight and brown canker. Rose bushes with black spot have round black spots on leaves; leaves turn yellow and fall off. Powdery mildew causes leaves to curl and turn purple, and the bush is covered with white powder. Botrytis blight keeps buds from opening and flowers may be covered with gray fungus. Brown cankers appear as small dead areas that can enlarge until enveloping the entire cane.
Treatment
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For roses with black spot or brown canker, diseased areas should first be pruned away, leaving only healthy growth. Then, as with other fungal infestations, baking soda solution should be applied to dry leaves. A sulfur-based spray is also effective to manage fungal infection. In addition, commercial fungicidal soap is recommended.
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Prevention
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Prevention of fungus problems begins in the autumn, when you should clear away fallen leaves from bushes, and trim and remove diseased canes. Careful pruning in the spring will further reduce the fungus population.
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References
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