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Kansas gardeners are facing challenges with their roses this season, especially from rose rosette virus and blackspot disease. According to Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, rose rosette virus causes symptoms like rapid shoot growth, clusters of small branches called “witches broom,” excessive thorns, reddish-purple deformed leaves, and can ultimately kill the plant. Infected plants should be removed completely, including roots, and garden tools sterilized to prevent the virus from spreading.

Blackspot, a fungal disease, is also common, showing dark circular lesions on leaves, purple spots on young canes, yellowing between spots, and leaf drop. Domenghini recommends prevention by planting resistant rose varieties, using drip irrigation to avoid wet leaves, ensuring good sunlight and air circulation, and removing diseased leaves. Fungicides like tebuconazole, myclobutanil, triticonazole, and chlorothalonil may be used on a 10- to 14-day schedule, always following label instructions carefully.