Rose rosette disease has caused irreparable damage to roses in recent years. But this disease is not new. It was reported in Tennessee as early as 1988. As the name suggests, rose rosette only infects the genus Rosa. While both Rosa multiflora and the popular Knock Out rose series are highly susceptible, all cultivated roses are at risk.
Rose rosette disease is caused by the eriophyid mite Phyllocoptes fructiphilus. Although it cannot fly, the eriophyid mite moves by air and floats to neighboring roses.
Symptoms
Symptoms of the disease include: reddening of the rose stem; long, thin leaves; increased thorniness; flattening of stems; witches' broom; and masses of distorted flower buds. The earlier the detection, the better chance you have of preventing the infection of nearby roses.
Treatment
Rose rosette is fatal if left unchecked. Removal of infected branches can slow the disease. Unfortunately, until a cure is created, completely removing or 'shovel pruning' infected plants is recommended.
Also, please inspect all roses before purchasing.
If you suspect that your rose(s) may be infected with rose rosette disease, call us today for a consultation at (615) 800-0024.
References and additional information:
http://www.newenglandgrows.org/pdfs/ho_WindhamRoseRosette.pdf
http://eppserver.ag.utk.edu/personnel/LongB/documents/roseRosette-disease-SP370-J.pdf