Rose: Botrytis bud and twig blight
categories: Flowers Ornamentals Rose Rose Diseases
last review date: 2025-07-28 10:54
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Botrytis can infect stems and flowers, including stubs left from pruning or flower removal.
Infected tissues are usually covered with a fuzzy, gray-brown growth.
Infected flower buds may not open, and can show sunken, smooth, grayish spots on the bud and flower stem.
Sunken, dead areas may develop on the canes. Infection is worst during cool, wet weather.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Remove all infected portions of plants as soon as the first symptoms appear. This reduces spread of the disease.
- Clean up and destroy all dead plant materials.
- Increase air circulation in plantings by proper spacing and pruning.
- Avoid overhead watering.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Use as a foliar spray but focus on cultural controls.
Approved Pesticides
Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.