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Red spiny branches growing from my roses #405244

Asked June 07, 2017, 12:29 AM EDT

Hello, I am wondering if this is a case of rose rosette? And if so, what is my course of action? I inherited these rose bushes, so despite my best efforts to keep my pruning shears clean in alcohol between cuttings, I am guessing it was already present. With this particular picture I used a flash, so it eliminated some of the redness. Let me know if you want better pictures. I can easily do it tomorrow. Thank you! Stanley

County Oregon

Expert Response

It could be rose "rosette" which is a form of witches broom in roses, spread by a tiny mite. Sterilizing your pruning shears does not prevent it. However, some herbicide sprays that have spread onto a rose bush can cause a similar appearing appearance in rose bushes. I would take a sample to your local extension office for confirmation. If it is rose witches broom, the only treatment is to immediately destroy the bush carefully, making sure the bush removed does not touch any other nearby bushes, double bagging it (not composting) and ensuring it does not have the opportunity for the mites to affect any others.

http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/rose_gardeners_should_learn_the_symptoms_of_rose_rosette_virus
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2017, 11:55 PM EDT

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