Rose Rosette Disease

You may have recently noticed that your Knock Out Roses are looking a little odd. Their ends are frayed and deformed and have turned a deep red. Does this sound familiar? If so, it is essential to learn what has happened to your beloved roses and why. Continue reading to learn about Rose Rosette Disease.

What Causes Rose Rosette Disease?

Witches Broom, or Rose Rosette, is a virus that is carried by a tiny mite called the eriophyid mite. This tiny insect spreads the disease among plants. Unfortunately, the eriophyid mite is so small that it is not visible to the naked eye. It can only be seen under a microscope! Much like viruses inside the human body, this virus can spread from plant to plant. Typically, a wild rose is the host and holds the virus inside its cells. When the eriophyid mite feeds on the rose, it ingests the virus. When the mite moves to another plant, he spreads the virus when feeding. Unfortunately, given the size of the mite, it can be transported by the wind, animals, garden equipment, and even people.

How do I Know if my Rose is Infected?

Diagnosing your rose with Rose Rosette Disease is quite simple. The virus causes the rose to grow deformed leaves, which is easily identified. In addition to the distorted leaves, the flower buds grow in tiny, tight clusters that resemble a witch’s broom or rosette. When the bud opens, the flower is also deformed. The color of the new growth is a deep red that never fades to green. Furthermore, the stems grow excessive thorns, and the foliage can turn yellow.

How do I Cure my Rose?

Unfortunately, there is no way to save your rose. Once the plant has been infected, it is imperative to remove the plant to ensure that no other plants become infected. You must pull the rose out of the ground and destroy the rose. To discard the plant and guarantee that your other roses will not become infected, you must burn the diseased rose. Sadly, there is no treatment at this time for the virus or the mite.

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