Rose midges, also known as the rose fly, a common pest that can cause severe damage to rose plants. The rose midge can be identified by its small, yellowish larvae with a translucent body. The adult midges are tiny, with a reddish-brown body and translucent wings. The larvae feed on the buds and flowers, causing damage to the plants. The larvae then pupate and emerge as adult midges. In this article, we will explore the different methods of integrated pest management that can be used to control the population of rose midges.  

Type of Infestation

Rose midges are flower feeders and can cause damage to the buds and flowers of rose plants.  

Scientific Name: Dasineura rhodophaga 

Most Affected States Due to Rose Midge

Rose midges are found in many states across India, with the major affected states being Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.  

Symptoms of Rose Midge

• The symptoms of rose midge infestation can be identified by the damage caused to the buds and flowers of the rose plants. 
• The larvae feed on the flowers, causing them to wilt and turn brown, while the damaged leaves can become stunted or curled.  
• Heavy infestation can lead to reduced bloom production. 

Rose Midge Control Measures

The following are the various cultural, physical, mechanical, biological and chemical measures that can be employed to manage rose midge infestations effectively.  

Rose Midge Cultural Measures

Cultural practices play a crucial role in reducing the risk of rose midge infestations. 

• Remove and destroy the infected plant debris. 
• Maintaining proper hygiene in the garden and providing adequate water and nutrients to plants help to reduce the infestation of rose midge. 

Physical Measures

Physical control can be done by gently shaking the affected parts of the plant and then removing the larvae. Physical control measures are most effective when combined with other control methods.  

Mechanical Measures

• Row covers can be placed over the plants, preventing the adult midges from reaching the roses. 
• Tapas Yellow Sticky Trap can be used to control adult midges in the rose field. Install 4-6 sticky traps per acre for effective management. 

Rose Midge Biological Measures

• Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings and parasitoid wasps to control the rose midge population. These predators feed on the midge larvae, reducing the population and preventing significant damage to the roses. 
• Econeem Plus Azadirachtin is a neem based biopesticide which can be used to control midges on roses. The recommended dosage is 3ml per liter of water. 
• Anshul Bio Finish is a broad spectrum biopesticide containing active ingredients derived from many plants. Use Anshul Bio Finish biopesticide at the rate of 3-5ml per liter of water at regular intervals of 10-12 days for effective control of midges. 

Rose Midge Chemical Measures

Chemical control measures include using commercial insecticides to control rose midge infestations.  

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Rose leafhoppers, also known as “hoppers,” are a type of insect that feed on the leaves and stems of roses. In order to effectively manage rose leafhoppers, it is important to understand their biology and behaviour, as well as the most effective control measures.  

The feeding damage caused by hoppers results in a reduction in the quality and yield of roses, as well as an increase in the susceptibility of the plants to disease. Rose leafhoppers are small, yellowish-green insects that are approximately 2-3mm in length. They have a distinctive triangular shape and a large head. 

The life cycle of rose leafhoppers typically lasts about 4-6 weeks, during which the insects go through several stages of development, including eggs, nymphs, and adults. The females lay their eggs on the underside of rose leaves, and the nymphs emerge and begin feeding on the plants. As they feed, the nymphs moult and grow, eventually reaching adulthood and reproducing.  

Type of Infestation

Rose leafhoppers are considered to be defoliators, as they feed on the leaves and stems of roses, causing damage to the plants.  

Scientific Name: Edwardsiana rosae 

Most Affected States Due to Rose Leafhoppers

Rose leafhoppers are widely distributed across India, and they are known to cause damage to rose crops in several states, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh.  

Symptoms of Rose Leafhoppers

• Both nymphs and adults suck the sap from the underside of the leaves and on tender stems causing leaves to become yellow or spotted. 
• White or yellow stippling of the leaves is the common symptoms caused by leafhoppers on roses.  
• Additionally, hopper feeding damage can cause leaves to become distorted and cupped, and the leaves and stems may become sticky due to the excretion of honeydew by the insects.  
• Reduction in plant growth. 

Rose Leafhoppers Control Measures

Pest management for Rose Leaf Hopper requires a comprehensive approach, integrating various cultural, physical, mechanical, biological, and chemical measures.  

Cultural Measures

• Proper irrigation and soil management can help prevent the spread of Rose Leaf Hopper.  

Physical Measures

Physical methods such as removing affected leaves, stems and flowers, and burning them can help control the spread of the pest. 

Rose Leafhoppers Mechanical Measures

• Using screens or fine meshes to protect the roses from the leaf hoppers can be effective in preventing infestation. 
• Light-coloured sticky traps can be used to monitor the population of Rose Leaf Hoppers. 
• Tapas Yellow Sticky Trap at 6-8 traps per acre can be used for the effective control of leafhoppers in rose plants. 

Biological Measures

• The use of natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings and parasitic wasps can help control the population of Rose Leaf Hoppers. 
• Amruth Alestra Liquid (Bio Insecticide) contains strains of naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii which comes in contact with the cuticle of the leafhoppers and colonizes them. The recommended dosage is 2ml per liter of water. 
• Anand Dr. Bacto’s Brave is an eco-friendly bio insecticide containing Beauveria bassiana which acts on the cuticle of susceptible insects and kills them by producing toxins. The recommended dosage is 2.5ml per liter of water. 
• Greenpeace Neemol Bio Neem Oil Insecticide contains neem-based products azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 1-2ml per liter of water with 15days interval between each spray can effectively control leafhoppers in rose fields. 

Rose Leafhoppers Chemical Measures

In case of severe infestations, chemical measures can be taken using commercial insecticides. The following are some of the commercial chemicals that are commonly used to control leafhoppers in rose plants, 

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Japanese Beetles are a significant pest of roses, causing damage to leaves and flowers. They can be identified by metallic green body and copper colour wings. They are oval in shape and have white tufts of hair along the sides and bottom of their bodies. The larvae are creamy white, with a brown head and can be found in soil.  

Adults emerge from the soil in the summer and feed on the leaves, flowers and stems of roses and other plants. They lay eggs in the soil, which hatch into larvae. The larvae feed on plant roots before pupating in the soil and emerging as adults the following year.   

Type of Infestation

Japanese Beetles are foliage feeders and cause significant damage to the leaves of rose plants.  

Scientific Name: Popillia japonica 

Most Affected States Due to Rose Japanese Beetle

The exact distribution of Japanese Beetles in India is not well documented. However, they are a known pest of rose plants and are likely present in rose-growing regions of the country.  

Symptoms of Rose Japanese Beetle

• Skeletonization of leaves is a common symptom caused by Japanese beetle. 
• They feed on the tissue between the veins of leaves, causing them to become lace-like. 
• In case of severe infestation, scorched appearance can be seen. 

Rose Japanese Beetle Control Measures

The management of Japanese Beetles on rose plants can be achieved through an integrated approach that includes cultural, physical, mechanical, biological and chemical measures. 

Cultural Measures

• Plant rose varieties like New Dawn pale pink rose which are less attractive to Japanese beetles. 
• Cultural practices such as proper plant nutrition, watering and soil management can help maintain the overall health of rose plants and reduce the damage caused by Japanese Beetles.  

Physical Measures

• Hand picking and destroying the beetles is one of the effective ways to reduce the Japanese beetle population. 
• Removing the affected leaves and flowers also helps to control Japanese beetles on rose plants.

Mechanical Measures

Mechanical practices such as using row covers or screens can prevent Japanese Beetles from accessing rose plants.  

Rose Japanese Beetle Biological Measures

• Katyayani Activated Neem Oil Bio Pesticide contains activated azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 5 ml per liter water with a 12 days interval between each spray can effectively control Japanese beetles in rose fields.  
• Anand Dr. Bacto’s Meta Insecticide contains a parasitic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae which effectively controls Japanese beetles on rose plants. The recommended dosage is 2ml per liter of water. 
• In addition, introducing natural predators such as birds and parasitic wasps, can help control Japanese Beetles on rose plants. 

Rose Japanese Beetle Chemical Measures

Chemical control of Japanese beetles in roses is an effective method of managing the pest population. The following are the commercial chemicals that are used to control Japanese beetles in roses ,

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Crown gall disease is an important disease of roses worldwide and can affect roses of all ages. Crown Gall Disease is caused by the bacteria Agrobacterium tumefaciens. It causes the formation of galls or tumors on the stem, roots or crown of the plant, which can lead to stunted growth and even death. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, favorable conditions for disease development and management practices.  

Crown gall disease is also a threat to the nursery industry, as infected plants can serve as a source of infection for healthy plants. The development of crown gall disease of rose is influenced by the disease triangle, which includes the presence of the pathogen, susceptible host, and favorable environmental conditions. The disease is favored by warm and moist conditions and can spread rapidly under such conditions.  

Type of Infestation

The disease cycle of crown gall disease of rose includes primary infection and secondary infection with mode of survival.  

• The primary infection occurs when the bacteria enter the plant through wounds or natural openings, and the T-DNA is inserted into the plant’s genome, causing the formation of galls.  
• The secondary infection occurs when the bacteria are transferred to other plants through contaminated soil, tools or irrigation water. The bacteria can also survive in the gall tissue of infected plants, serving as a source of infection for healthy plants.  

Scientific Name: Agrobacterium tumefaciens 

Most Affected States

Crown gall disease of rose is a widespread disease in India, affecting rose plants in many states. Some of the major affected states include Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Punjab.  

Symptoms of Rose Crown Gall

The symptoms of crown gall disease of rose vary depending on the severity of the infection.  

• Initially small, soft and light-colored galls appear on the stems, roots or crown of the plant. 
• As the disease progresses, the galls become larger, harder, and darker in color and they can distort the shape of the plant.  
• The infected plants may also exhibit stunted growth and reduced flower production.  

Rose Crown Gall Control Measures

Crown gall disease management can be achieved through cultural practices, mechanical control, biological control and chemical control.  

Cultural Measures

Cultural practices such as crop sanitation, crop diversification and soil management are crucial in controlling crown gall disease.  

• Crop sanitation involves removing and destroying all infected plants, dead plant material and weeds in the area to prevent the spread of the disease. Farmers should also remove all plant debris and soil from pots and benches, disinfecting them before use.  
• Crop diversification involves planting non-host crops in between rose plants to reduce the disease’s spread.  
• The use of raised beds and well-drained soil can also reduce the risk of infection. 

Mechanical measures

• Destruction of infested/dead plant materials can reduce the spread of crown gall disease in rose. 
• Prune out the gall tissue. 

Rose Crown Gall Biological Measures

One approach to biologically control crown gall disease is the use of soil amendments such as Agrobacterium radiobacter K84, which is a non-pathogenic strain of Agrobacterium Radiobacter that can outcompete the pathogenic strains for space and nutrients. This can be used to prevent the colonization of the pathogenic bacteria in the first place.   

Chemical Measures

Chemical control of crown gall disease can be achieved by applying certain fungicides and bactericides. Some of the commonly used chemicals are,  

Roses are one of the most popular ornamental plants grown worldwide, appreciated for their beauty, fragrance and wide range of colors. However, like any other plant species, roses are also susceptible to various diseases, including Botrytis blight. Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects roses and other ornamental plants. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, and management of Botrytis blight of rose.   

Botrytis blight of rose is a major disease that can cause significant economic losses to the ornamental plant industry. The disease can reduce the quality and yield of roses, affecting the marketability of the plants. Botrytis blight develops under conditions of high humidity, especially in the presence of free moisture. The fungus can infect roses through wounds or natural openings, such as stomata or hydathodes and can survive in plant debris or infected plant material.  

Type of Infestation in Botrytis blight of rose

Botrytis blight has a complex disease cycle that involves primary and secondary infections. 

• Primary infections occur when the spores of the fungus land on the plant surface and germinate, penetrating the host tissue. 
• Secondary infections occur when the fungus spreads from the initial site of infection to other parts of the plant or other nearby plants. The fungus can also survive in plant debris or in the soil, serving as a source of inoculum for new infections.  

Scientific Name: Botrytis cinerea 

Most Affected States

Botrytis blight can occur in any region where roses are grown, but it is more common in areas with high humidity and rainfall. In India, the disease is prevalent in the states of West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.  

Botrytis Blight of Rose Symptoms

• Botrytis blight can affect various parts of the rose plant, including the stems, leaves and flowers.  
• The initial symptoms of the disease are small brown spots on the leaves or stems that enlarge and become covered in a grey mold.  
• Greyish brown fungal growth can be observed on the leaves and flowers. Small flecks can be seen on the infested petals. 
• As the disease progresses, the mold can spread to other parts of the plant, causing the leaves and flowers to wilt and turn brown. 

Botrytis Blight of Rose Control Measures

The management of Botrytis blight in roses requires a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control measures.  

Cultural Measures

• Providing adequate spacing between the plants ensures proper air circulation and reduces humidity levels.  
• Avoid overhead irrigation, instead drip irrigation can be used to keep the foliage dry.  
• Remove all weeds and debris from the rose beds to prevent the build-up of inoculum.  
• Ensure good drainage in the growing area. 
• Pruned parts should be coated/treated with Bordeaux paste/Bordeaux mixture.  

Mechanical Measures

• Destruction of dead plant parts can reduce the further spread of botrytis fungus. 
• Pruning of infected plant parts should be done as soon as they are observed. 

Biological Measures

• Anshul Tricomax Bio fungicide contains Trichoderma viride which suppresses the growth of pathogen by producing antibiotics. The recommended dosage is 3 gm per liter of water. 
• Mildown Bio fungicide contains bacillus subtilis which competes with the disease-causing organisms and induces systemic acquired resistance against bacterial pathogens. Treat the rose saplings with Mildown at 5 ml per liter of water before planting. 
• Milgo Bio Fungicide contains parasitic fungus Ampelomyces quisqualis which when used at the rate of 5-10 ml per liter water with 10-15 days interval between sprays can effectively control botrytis disease in rose. 

Chemical Measures

Chemical control is an important aspect of managing Botrytis blight in roses. Some commonly used fungicides for Botrytis blight in roses include:  

In conclusion, botrytis blight is a serious disease of roses that can cause significant damage to the plant and its economic value. It is important to take preventative measures such as proper cultural practices and timely application of fungicides to prevent the disease from spreading. With careful management, it is possible to minimize the impact of botrytis blight on roses and ensure their continued health and beauty.

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Rose plants, often referred to as the “King of Flowers”, are highly prized for their beauty, fragrance and versatility. However, these rose plants are also vulnerable to several diseases, one of the most prevalent of which is blackspot. Blackspot is a fungal disease that affects roses, and it is one of the most widespread and damaging diseases in rose cultivation. Blackspot is a major concern for rose growers because it can significantly reduce the quality and yield of roses. In severe cases, blackspot can kill the plant entirely, resulting in significant financial losses for growers.   

Blackspot is favoured by warm and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging between 20-30°C and relative humidity between 70-80%. Prolonged periods of leaf wetness due to heavy rainfall, overhead irrigation, or frequent morning dew also contribute to the development of the disease.

Type of Infestation

• The primary infection of black spot occurs in the spring and early summer, when the pathogen infects new growth on the plant.  
• Secondary infections occur later in the season, as the pathogen spreads from infected leaves to healthy leaves. The pathogen can survive in the soil, on infected plant debris, or on the surface of the leaves, where it can infect new growth.  

Scientific Name of Pathogen: Diplocarpon rosae 

Most Affected States

Blackspot is a widespread disease in India and affects rose plants in many parts of the country. Some of the most affected states include Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.  

Symptoms of Rose Black Spot

• Initially small, circular, black lesions appear on the upper surface of the leaves.  
• As the disease progresses, the spots enlarge and become more numerous, and the leaves eventually become yellow and fall off. 
• Due to defoliation, the plant’s overall health is significantly weakened, and its ability to produce flowers is greatly reduced.  

Rose Black Spot Control Measures

Cultural Measures

Cultural practices are the first line of defense against blackspot. Some important practices include:  

• Proper plant spacing: When planting roses, it is important to space plants at least 30 cm apart to allow for good air circulation.  
• Water management: Watering roses at the base of the plant, rather than on the leaves, helps to prevent moisture from accumulating on the leaves and reduces the likelihood of blackspot infection.  
• Crop Diversification: Crop diversification is an effective strategy for controlling blackspot. This involves growing a mix of different crops in the same field, which reduces the build-up of the pathogen and reduces the impact of the disease. For example, intercropping roses with vegetables, such as tomatoes or peppers, can help to control black spot. 
• Use disease-resistant cultivars, as these plants are less susceptible to infection and can reduce the spread of the disease. 

Mechanical Measures

• Collection and destruction of dead leaves on the ground can reduce the spread of blackspot disease in rose plants. 
• Regular pruning of infected leaves also helps to reduce the spread of blackspot. 

Biological Measures

• Biological control of blackspot involves the use of beneficial organisms to control the pathogen. 
• Anand Dr Bacto’s Fluro Bio Fungicide contains an effective microbial culture Pseudomonas fluorescence which prevents the growth of target fungi. The recommended dosage is 2.5ml per liter of water. 

Rose Black Spot Chemical Measures

In cases where cultural, mechanical and biological control strategies are not sufficient to control black spot, adoption of chemical method of control may be necessary. There are several fungicides available for controlling black spot in roses, including:  

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Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are small, oval-shaped insects that range in colour from green, yellow and black. They have long, slender antennae and two tubes (known as cornicles) that extend from the posterior end of the body. At different growth stages, the appearance of aphids can vary, with nymphs being smaller and lighter in color than adult aphids. 

Aphids are one of the most common pest of roses which can cause significant damage to the plants. Aphids are often referred to as “plant lice” because of their feeding habits, which can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves and flowers and even death of the affected plants. Roses are especially susceptible to damage from aphids, as the insects feed on the young, tender growth of the plants. Currently, there is a growing concern among rose growers in India about the increasing prevalence of aphids, and many are looking for effective ways to control these pests.  

Type of Infestation

Aphids are a type of sap feeder, as they feed on the sap of the rose plant’s stems, leaves, and buds. 

Scientific Name: Macrosiphum rosae 

Most Affected States Due to Rose Aphids

Aphids are a common pest of roses in many regions of India, with the highest levels of infestation typically occurring in areas with warm, humid climates. Some of the major affected states in India include West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka.  

Symptoms of Rose Aphids

• The presence of aphids on rose plants can be easily detected by the presence of distorted leaves, yellowing of the foliage and a sticky residue known as honeydew on the leaves and stems. 
• Premature falling of buds and fading of flowers. 
• In heavy infestations, the plants may become stunted and may even die. 

Rose Aphids Control Measures

A combination of different control measures is often required to effectively manage aphid infestations in rose crops. The following are some common IPM practices used to control aphids. 

Rose Aphids Cultural Measures

• Sowing time: Planting roses during the proper season can help to manage aphid populations. In many regions, planting roses in the September or October month can help to reduce the amount of overwintering aphid eggs and prevent infestations early in the growing season 
• Intercropping: Intercropping roses with companion plants, such as marigold can also help to manage aphid populations. These companion plants can act as a trap crop by attracting aphids away from the roses, and they can also release natural insecticides that help to control aphids.  
• Trap crops: In some cases, planting a trap crop can be an effective way to manage aphids. For example, planting nasturtiums near roses can attract aphids away from the roses, reducing their population and minimizing damage to the roses. 

Physical Measures

• Light traps can be used to trap and kill adult aphids. For a hectare 4 light traps can be installed for effective trapping. 
• Barriers such as row covers can be used to physically exclude aphids from the rose crops. This can be especially effective when the roses are in their early stages of growth. 

Mechanical Measures

• Collection and destruction of heavily infested plant parts is an effective way to reduce the aphid population. This should be done before the pests have a chance to lay their eggs.  

• Sticky traps can be used to monitor aphid populations and to help reduce their numbers. Yellow sticky traps are particularly effective in attracting aphids.  
• Tapas Yellow Sticky Traps @ 6-8 traps per acre can be used for the effective control of aphids in rose plants. 

Rose Aphids Biological Measures

• Predators – Ladybugs and lacewings can be released to control aphid populations. These predators feed on aphids and can help to keep their numbers in check.  
• Parasitoids – Wasps help to control aphid populations. The wasps lay their eggs inside the aphids, killing them in the process.  
• Katyayani Activated Neem Oil Biopesticide contains activated azadirachtin which when used at the rate of 5 ml per liter water with a 12 days interval between each spray can effectively control aphids in rose crop. 
• Amruth Alestra Liquid (Bio Insecticide) contains strains of naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus Verticillium lecanii which comes in contact with the cuticle of the aphids and colonizes them. The recommended dosage is 2ml per liter of water. 

Rose Aphids Chemical Measures

Chemical control is often necessary when other control measures are not effective. The following are some commercial chemicals that are commonly used to control aphids in rose crops:  

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