October is an essential month for rose care, as it ensures the blooms will grow back with vigour come spring.
Among all the autumnal threats, black spots could prevent roses from flowering again if left untreated.
Gardeners should therefore be vigilant and take prompt action to protect their prized blooms from this autumn threat.
According to one gardener, one of the best defences against the disease is mulching.
Gardeners should take prompt action to protect their roses
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The Royal Horticultural Society explained that black spot is the most serious disease of roses.
It is caused by a fungus, Diplocarpon rosae, which infects the leaves and greatly reduces plant vigour.
Gardeners can expect to see leaf markings from spring, which will persist as long as the leaves remain on the plant.
Because the disease becomes more common in the autumn, it is widely recommended to start taking precautions in October.
YouTuber Paul, who posts from the account Paul's Green Space, recommended mulch to protect the plants from the disease.
Apply a substantial layer of mulch around the plant's base to help prevent the spread of black spots, he explained.
In essence, the mulch acts as a barrier, preventing soil from splashing onto the plant.
Because spores are present in the earth, the mulch will help stop the black spot from spreading to the roses.
"If you're not a fan of mulch, I have another solution for you," added Paul. "You can try planting sweet alyssum. It is an excellent companion plant for roses.
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Black spots are more prevalent in autumn
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"It is not only a great ground cover and will stop the splashback of the spores from the soil, but also it attracts butterflies, which feast on aphids."
"This will protect the new growth of your roses," the expert added. "This is an all-around excellent companion plant for your rose bushes.
"If you follow these tips, you'll have happy and healthy roses in your garden for years to come."
