I’ve removed the spent flowers on my roses. But, I’m concerned because there are absolutely no leaves on the branches. Looking at them you would think it’s the middle of winter. What has happened and will the foliage return?
Answer:
The rainy periods in March and April is the cause of your problem.Roses are susceptible to Rust, Black Spot and Mildew. Black Spot causes the leaves to have yellow spots with black blotches and as the disease progresses the foliage drops off. Rust gives you orange spots on the back of the leaves and Mildew forms a white film on the foliage, stems and buds. These are air borne diseases that attack when moisture remains on the foliage after the sun has gone down. There are plenty of products available to control these diseases but they don’t eradicate the problem. Your best solution is Bayer Advanced All In One Rose Care. It’s a systemic control applied to the roots before the diseases show up. So, it’s ideal to use in early March when the new growth is about an inch long. It gives six weeks of protection against Rust, Black Spot and Mildew and this should keep the foliage pristine through the end of the rain season. A fourth disease called Downey Mildew can also be troublesome when cool, damp conditions are present for an extended period. Downy Mildew is usually limited to the coastal areas where there is a strong marine influence but their can be years where its area wide. This disease is often confused with Black Spot because of the similar yellow spots with black leaf blotches. The most distinguishing characteristic of Downey Mildew is the plants extreme and rapid defoliation, like over night. But from your question, Black Spot is more than likely your problem and not Downey Mildew. Your biggest concern right now should be temperatures over ninety degrees with those plants in the afternoon sun. Without any leaves, sunburn is a big concern on the stems. You protect these plants by draping shade cloth over them until the new growth returns. The new growth should return in four to six weeks.
Question:
I recently dug up three bushes that had died. When I removed them, I noticed the soil had a lot of white stuff mixed in with it. What is it and is it safe to plant in that area again?
Answer:
It is common for a white fungus growth to develop in our clay soils that are amended with organic matter. The white stuff has a stringy texture that can be matted or it looks like it weaving it way through the soil particles. It’s Mother Nature at work breaking down or composting the chunkier pieces of organic matter in the soil. There is no need to be concerned although it is a bit of a surprise or for some a shock when noticing it for the first time. You can replant whenever you like without any reservations.
