Once the leaves of your rose curl, show big black spots or are affected by the white, powdery mildew, it might be too late. The best way to keep your rose healthy is prevention. In general roses should not be planted too close together; they like loose and nutrition rich soil. Fertilize twice a year; best times are spring and early summer.
- Lavender Reduces Risk of Pests
To reduce the risk of pests and mildew, plant lavender, onions and other herbs in your rose garden. Some even stick garlic cloves around the root system of the rose to prevent fungicides. It might be worth a try.
Herbs also attract insects, which are the natural enemies of aphids and other vermin. Set up nesting possibilities for those insects, for example for ladybugs - this was the original idea of the now decorative rose-balls. To provide a nesting space, you could simply fill some wicker-balls with straw.
- Soft Soap Makes Aphids Stay Away
If your rose is already affected by aphids remove those by hand. Cut off the badly affected parts and make sure to throw them in the garbage not the compost, to prevent spreading. Use a solution of water with a drop of not fragranced soft soap to clean the leaves; this will make the aphids stay away. You can also use cooled off black tea, or a homemade garlic or onion broth.
- Stinging Nettle Fights Mildew
In Germany organic gardeners use stinging nettle to get rid of Mildew. Simply collect this wild growing weed in a big plastic bag, crush the leaves and add some water. Than let it stay in the sun for about a week. Strain the solution and dilute it with water to spray on your roses. This solution is also a great fertilizer.
- Pruning Makes Roses Healthy
Make sure to water your roses at the root level, to prevent fungus disease. Fungus generally thrives under moist conditions. Pruning also can help to prevent mildew and other fungicides. You may prune a little bit throughout the year and as much as you can during pruning season. A well-pruned rose is able to receive enough air and sunlight spread evenly throughout the plant, and will be healthier and more resistant.
- Give Roses Space and Sun
To enjoy a beautiful healthy rose garden make sure to watch out for diseases and treat affected areas early. Provide a healthy environment. Enough space, good pruning, a nutrition rich soil and insect-attracting herbs help your rose to stay healthy. Natural and organic remedies are an effective and money saving way to treat affected plants. There are also lots of effective and organic ways to get rid of weeds.
