treatment of rose mosaic disease

Question

It’s the only rose bush in my garden and last year was the first time that I had seen these wavy yellow lines on the leaves. The bush did bloom but some of the flowers turned to mush and others did not. The bush is about 35 years old and has spent its life in the same spot as now. Twice in the last 2 years I’ve added topsoil to the garden. At the moment only a few leaves are effected.

Secondly, for the first time ever I found tiny white bugs with a black spot on their backs on the leaves. Do you know what they are and how to get rid of them?

I would like to keep the bush. Any suggestions for treatments?

Thank you
Carol Machulski

Answer 1

Rose Mosaic Virus is not really treatable. If the infected rosebush is in with other roses either yours or near neighbors, the best thing to do is to dig the bush out and destroy it. That way it will not help spread the virus to others. If the bush is well isolated and you desire to keep it. I would give the bush a couple treatments of Bayer Tree and Shrub granules. This product will help the bush fend off other diseases and insect attacks as well and also feeds the bush. Here is a link to an article for you as well: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/rose-mosaic-virus.htm