Tea Rose With Mold?

Q: I have a tea rose that has a white fuzz around the buds. It looks like mold. What can I do to correct and fix this problem? Hardiness Zone: 8b

Jana from las Vegas, NV

A: Jana,

What your describing sounds like powdery mildew, a fungal disease common to all types of roses. Roses from the Rugosa family are best at resisting the disease. It's best to get this under control, because if conditions persist, powdery mildew can spread rapidly throughout your garden. There are several conditions that encourage mildew to form, including the warm days and cold nights of spring. Poor air circulation around the plants is another factor. When the surface of the leaves get wet and remains wet, mildew spores start to germinate. You can improve air circulation around the leaves by opening up the center of the plant with pruning. Other conditions that encourage powdery mildew include dripping condensation from overhangs, over crowding and dehydration.

Fungicidal soaps are readily available at nurseries and garden centers, or you can make your own using the following recipe.

In a large bucket or pail, mix the following ingredient together in the order listed: 1 tbsp vegetable oil , 1 gallon of distilled water, 1 tsp of mouthwash (not mint flavored) , 1 tbsp liquid soap , 1 _ tbsp baking soda and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar. Stir the mixture and transfer it into a spray bottle. Spray your rose plants thoroughly and reapply as needed after rain.

Good Luck!
Ellen