Gardeners across the UK are urged to perform a simple 5-minute task to help their roses grow bigger this summer. Black spot, a common fungal disease, can quickly devastate rose bushes, but planting salvias nearby can prevent infection and promote healthier growth.
Why Black Spot Thrives in Summer
Warm and damp conditions create an ideal breeding ground for black spot disease. The fungal infection initially manifests on leaves, causing dark patches that rapidly drop from the plant. If untreated, black spot will strip a rose bush of its foliage, leaving it incapable of generating energy to flower. According to gardening expert Ish Kamran, founder of Gardening with Ish, inspecting roses regularly during humid spells is vital to catch early signs.
Simple Prevention: Plant Salvias
Ish Kamran recommends planting salvias around rose bushes as a natural antifungal measure. He explains: "Keeping rose bushes light, airy, and adequately watered but not overly watered is key. But the other thing you can do is actually grow salvias around your rose bushes. Salvias are natural antifungal plants, and by having them nearby, they help prevent fungal infections in the first place."
Salvias are striking, spiky plants with rich purple blooms that grow upright, encouraging greater airflow around neighbouring plants. Black spot travels via water and is more likely to strike when leaves remain damp for extended periods. Positioning salvias helps moisture evaporate swiftly, warding off black spot during wet summer conditions.
Treating Black Spot Disease
If black spot is detected early, it can be treated easily. Ish advises: "If it has spread, you can get sprays like Rose Clear or make your own organic spray by using a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda in a spray bottle of water. Lightly mist over the top every week or so, and that should hopefully clear it." Bicarbonate of soda's alkaline properties make it harder for fungal spores to proliferate. Simply inspect rose bushes every few days, remove infected leaves immediately, and treat with spray. Dispose of infected leaves in the bin and continue weekly spraying for a healthy plant throughout summer.
Additional Tips for Rose Care
Proper watering and consistent pruning remain essential to keep black spot at bay. Ensuring roses are not overwatered and maintaining good air circulation are crucial. By following these steps, gardeners can enjoy thriving, healthy roses with bigger blooms all season.
