listserves (such as austexgardeners) there have been numerous
requests to identify and solve rose problems. With our current high
levels of heat plus humidity, insects and diseases seem to be rampant.
However... do not despair. We are lucky to have an arsenal of gentle
organic products to help keep our beloved roses happy. With the
advent of cooler weather toward the end of this month, they should all
perk up and start to shower us with their pretty colors during the fall
months.
This summer we had little rain and high temperatures, and it has been
quite a struggle. At least last week’s rainfall (thanks to Hermine) helped
them all with much-needed moisture.
An application of rose food such as the liquid Hastagro or the granular
organic Rosetone ($8.99) will give your roses what they need to push
deep green leaves and healthy blossoms through the fall. An October
feeding will also strengthen them for the colder winter months ahead.
As for insects, we have seen aphids, spider mites, caterpillars (larvae-
worms) and some Western-flower thrip. The organic spray Spinosad
($17.99) – derived from a soil bacterium – will kill these pests. This
insecticide is also effective in the vegetable garden. Those cabbage
worms don’t have a chance when they encounter it.
On the disease side, we have cases of powdery mildew, black spot
and sooty mold. Control these with wettable-powder sulfur ($8.99)
or Serenade ($12.99), a beneficial bacteria (Bacillus subtilis). Either can
be mixed with water and then simply spray it on the leaves.
Most of the sooty mold this summer has been spread by the aphid
populations on our hackberry trees. Yes. . . I will be glad when they
defoliate for winter!
When buying a rose, it’s a good idea to consider the natural disease
resistance of the variety, along with the beauty of the plant’s blossom.
You will find that many of the old-fashioned antique roses and some of
the newly-bred modern roses are in this category.
Some of these ‘antiques’ include Old Blush, Mutabilis (see photo above)
Cramois Superior, Martha Gonzales, Marie Day, Marie Pavie, and Cecile
Bruner. The list of possible varieties is much more extensive.
Of the modern roses, look for the Knockout series, Home Run, Belinda’s
Dream, Cinco de Mayo, Living Easy, Nearly Wild and Julia Child.
Hope this helps! Happy gardening everyone. Got a gardening problem?
Bring it in and let’s see if we can help.
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It's About Thyme 
