Rose: Viruses

Biology

The most common virus disease of roses is rose mosaic, which may cause leaves to show yellow lines, rings, mottles, or netted patterns. These symptoms usually are seen in the spring on part or all of the plant and may not be present at other times. Some infected plants show no symptoms. Rose mosaic viruses are not spread by insects or pruning tools, but can be transmitted between plants by grafting or budding. Infected plants may be less vigorous and more sensitive to winter injury. The agent which causes rose spring dwarf is also probably a virus. Symptoms of this disease are mainly seen on new growth in the spring. Emerging leaves are short, curved, and clustered in a ball or clump on very short shoots. The new leaves are also distinguished by a yellow net-like pattern along the leaf veins. This chlorosis may also be seen on new leaves in the fall. Branches sometimes grow in a zigzag pattern. Infected plants appear to be less vigorous than healthy plants.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Plant only virus-free plants
• Remove and destroy infected plants, if desired.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

• None recommended

Additional Images