The new growth on the roses has some white fuzz on it and some of the buds and new leaves are twisted and distorted. Whats wrong and what can we do about it?
Your roses have Powdery Mildew. The affected growth cannot recover so trim it off and discard. Then spray with Actidione PM if you can find it, following label directions. Once the mildew is cleared up continue a regular spray with Benomyl and/or Funginex as a preventive. Be sure to cover new growth thoroughly. Rose rust is rarely seen in Florida and then it usually appears on plants shipped in from out of state. Dithane M-45 and Funginex are recommended for control if it should occur, along with careful sanitation. The same applies to Downy Mildew which has been known to appear at infrequent intervals. Experience has taught us and many others to maintain a preventive weekly spray program against fungus diseases. Insecticides are used sparingly and only where insects are present. Virus disease in roses is widespread but usually not a serious concern. It is spread through propagation, with no practical remedy except not propagating infected stock material. Research is being carried on n
