Gardener's 'amazing' tip to stop roses suffering from black spot disease

Rose enthusiasts everywhere dread black spot – the treacherous fungal disease that threatens their beloved blooms.

Tackling black spot in roses is notoriously tricky once it strikes, often proving a gardener's nemesis as it spreads across the garden.

Characterised by irregular, dark spots up to half an inch across, primarily found on the upper surfaces of leaves, black spot signals the beginning of trouble.

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As the disease advances, affected leaves turn yellow and fall off prematurely, usually starting from the plant's base and working upwards. This can lead to complete defoliation over time.

While black spot alone might not be fatal within its initial years, it weakens roses, leaving them vulnerable to further diseases, which could ultimately result in their demise.

Kelly Lynch, exasperated with her roses falling victim to black spot, sought guidance from fellow rose enthusiasts on the David Austen Roses Facebook page.

Her plea was: "Does anyone have any advice for black spot? I've tried removing all the infected leaves and don't overwater, but no matter what I do, most of my roses end up with it."

During the recent bouts of wet-dry spells the UK underwent in July, many frequenters of the group suggested mulching as a preventative measure against the disease.

As reported by Express.co.uk, Ruth Hall said: "It seems to have helped that I planted my rose (prone to black spot) in a bed that has a surface of mulch on top. No moisture on the surface. That seems to help prevent black spot."

Julie Graig advised: "Clean the area and snip any infection. Water gently in the early morning or late evening. Keep the area well ventilated, not overgrown."

Anna Elizabeth responded: "I try to mulch around the plant, but keep it away from the bud union and not water too much."

Mulching is a boon for roses, offering them a nutritional lift, keeping weeds at bay, and aiding moisture retention.

Yet, it's also a shield against black spot by thwarting soil spores from splashing onto fresh growth with rain.

There's an array of materials suitable for mulching. Options include top-notch garden compost, composted straw or bark, or properly matured manure procured from local farms.

However, heed must be taken if applying manure – ensure it's aged no less than two years; younger manure could harm your roses' roots.

The mulch should extend as far as the rose's canopy spans – just remember, avoid direct contact with the rose's stem.