If you want to maintain excellent plant health in Louisiana, it’s important to be aware of rose rosette virus —a serious disease that affects all varieties of roses. At Matthews Landscape, we’re here to help you recognize the warning signs early and keep your garden thriving.
What Is Rose Rosette Virus?
Rose rosette virus is spread by tiny, mites that crawl from plant to plant. Once a rose is infected, you may notice:
- Bright red or distorted new leaves
- Unusually thick stems
- A large number of thorns, sometimes forming a tangled “witch’s broom” appearance
These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other issues, so testing is the only way to 100% confirm a rose rosette diagnosis.
No Cure—But You Can Contain It
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for rose rosette virus. The best course of action is to completely remove the infected plant, including its roots.
To prevent the disease from spreading and protect overall plant health in your garden:
- Immediately bag or burn infected roses
- Disinfect your gardening tools after working with any affected plants
- Monitor nearby roses closely for symptoms
Concerned About Plant Health in Shreveport? We Can Help.
If you think your roses might have rose rosette—or you’re noticing other unusual symptoms in your garden—don’t hesitate to reach out for expert help. We’re your local landscape experts, and we’re just a call or message away.