Find Your Ask the Expert: Have you heard of witches broom growth in roses
My rose grew tall and didn’t fill out. Instead it had 2 or 3 tall stalks that
resembled a broom held upward. Is there any way to save this rose?or is it un-
salvageable? What causes this? Charlene Pilger
Rose Rosette
Plant Expert Reply:
The picture to the right shows a rose bud with rose rosette. It sounds like that is what your rose has. I am sorry to say, if a rose has rose rosette there is no cure. The recommendation is to uproot the rose and remove it from the area. Do not burn it or compost it.
Rose rosette (RRD) is caused by a virus carried by an eriophyid mite (not a spider mite). Symptoms included reddening of the stems and stunted growth. It also presents itself with the formation of prickles on stems and canes.
The Virginia Cooperative Extension has a wonderful Rose Rosette article with more information about the disease.
This Flower Shop Network plant question is sponsored by Richmond florists.
