What’s Causing Deformed Roses?
QUESTION: Something is chewing into the sides of my rosebuds, eating out the “hearts” so the flowers are deformed. But I can never see anything actually doing it. What could it be, and how do I get rid of it?
ANSWER: The culprit in your rose garden is probably a type of inch-worm, which is a caterpillar that usually feeds at night. (That’s why you don’t see it at work.) During the day it hides under leaves or even down under the debris near the base of the plant at ground level. Sometimes grasshoppers or katydids do the same damage, but they usually work during daylight hours and are most damaging in late summer and fall.
Fortunately, all these pests are easily controlled by proper applications of Sevin (carbaryl), which is available both as a spray and as a powder. I prefer the liquid form, because it is easy to use and does not leave a residue on the foliage. It is very effective in eliminating the problem you described.
How to Control Aphids in Spring and Fall
Q: Right now my garden is OK, but every spring and fall many of my plants are covered with aphids. What can I do to prevent this from happening this fall?
A: In the cool months of spring and fall aphids flourish and quickly become an unsightly nuisance in the garden. Happily these are among the very easiest pests to control.
Among vegetables and other food crops, spray with Malathion when these critters first appear, and then as necessary to keep them under control.
In garden areas where non-food plants are grown (such as roses and other flowers) spray with Malathion or Orthene, or simply feed your plants in late August or early September with Ortho 2-in-1 Rose Food. (By the way, these products may also be effectively used in late winter or early spring for year-around control of aphids on non-food crops.)
Orthene and “2-in-1” contain insecticides that are absorbed into plant tissues, and they are highly effective. No more aphids at all. (But be sure not to use these products on food crops. And when using any pesticide, please always be sure to read and follow the directions and precautions given on the label.)
