The infestation with animal vermin is often strongly dependent on the weather and can fluctuate greatly over the course of the year. In many cases, a little patience helps, because the natural balance usually returns on its own.
Aphids are relatively easy to identify
Control rose pests
Sometimes, however, the damage can become too great, and then various tried and tested natural home remedies and - in rare and particularly serious cases - the use of pesticides that are gentle on beneficial insects can help.
Rose shoot borer
Dry, brown shoot tips are a sign of an infestation with the rose shoot borer (Ardis brunniventris). Its larvae feed both upwards and downwards inside the shoots, causing the shoots above to die off. Cut off affected shoots a few centimeters below the dead part and dispose of them with household waste.
aphids
Roses are usually attacked by rose aphids, which are usually green in color and suck on buds and shoot tips. As a result, leaves and flower buds wither and are eventually shed. With a light infestation, it is sufficient to collect the animals by hand or to hose them down with water in the early morning. Be careful when using neem supplements as these will cause some roses to drop buds.
rose leaf scroll wasp
The rose leaf scroll wasp (Blennocampa pusilla) lays its eggs on the edges of rose petals. These then roll protectively around the larva, only to turn yellow and fall off. Remove infested leaves and be sure to collect any foliage from the ground as well. Dispose of everything with the household waste, as the larvae will continue to develop on the compost and may infest the roses again the following spring.
rose sawfly
The larvae of the rose sawfly (Caliroa aethiops) feed on the upper side of the leaves, causing unsightly damage that then dries up and leaves holes (the so-called “window damage”). Remove infested leaves and dispose of them with household waste.
Rosehopper
Planthoppers (Typhlocyba rosae) are greenish, small, jumping insects that suck on the underside of leaves, causing whitish discoloration on the surface. These appear mottled like a mosaic. Cut back affected shoots and spray the roses with nettle broth early in the morning, especially on the undersides of the leaves.
spider mite
Strictly speaking, spider mites (Tetranychus urticae) are not insects, but arachnids. They are almost impossible to see with the naked eye and are particularly noticeable in hot, dry weather. However, an infestation is soon revealed by the fine webs on the underside of the leaves and between the leaves. These then show a fine, grey-white mottling. Affected shoots should be completely removed and disposed of with household waste.
tips
Especially with aphids, the chemical mace is often unnecessary, because hungry birds and beneficial insects quickly decimate the aphid population. Just make sure that the relevant beneficial insects can feel at home in your garden - for example through dense hedges, nesting boxes and insect hotels.