Among the last garden works in autumn, it is worth finding time for preparing roses for wintering. The beauty of their flowering next season depends on how they tolerate the cold. However, they must be properly secured beforehand to protect them against diseases, including: common and dangerous black spot. So take care of it in November.
One of the most common diseases that affects in the gardensis black spot on roses, caused by the fungus Diplocarpon rosae. It develops mainly in humid and warm conditions, manifesting themselves with characteristic spots on the leavesand later also on the stems. Over time, black spots on the leaves acquire yellow borders, and the entire bush weakens, losing, among other things, the ability to photosynthesize.
Such a weakened plant has a hard time coping with winter conditions, which means it develops much worse in the next season. Unfortunately this fungus can overwinter, hiding in fallen leaves and infected shoots, which is why it is so important taking care of rose bushes in autumn.
The conidia of this fungus are able to cope in autumn, when it gets cool and humid. Unfortunately, they are carried away by splashing water. For the disease to develop and the spores of the fungus to start germinating, favorable conditions must prevail, i.e moisture remaining on the leaves for a long time. Additionally, this is caused by poor air circulation and too densely planted roses.
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Unfortunately, black spot can be responsible for a real disaster of your roses, which is why it is so important to take care of the bushes in November to protect them from infection as much as possible. First of all, it is considered a key procedure by many specialists removal of leaves and diseased shoots, that were attacked by disease and fell to the ground.
The fact that they are not on the bush does not mean that they no longer pose a threat to the plant. Be sure to collect all of them from the surrounding bushes and, most importantly,do not throw them into the compost as they may contain fungus spores. It is best to burn them or throw them into bio waste. However, if you notice dark spots on the shoots, trim them and remove them.
It is also worth spraying as a preventive measure. In the case of black spot on roses fungicides are most often usedwhich, when sprayed in November, reduce the risk of this common disease appearing in the next season. As this is not a fully ecological solution, you can also try: natural alternatives, such as homemade sprays.
If you want to take even more care of your rose bushes before winter, it is worth spreading mulch around the bushes. This method limits water splashing during rainfall and thus the spread of fungi causing black spot. You cannot forget about regular garden hygiene, including systematic raking of leaves. The less organic material around the roses, the less risk that the fungi will survive the winter and attack next season.
