On Thu, 13 Nov 2003, dave weil wrote:
Yes, dear friends, I have witches broom on my rather extensive and
sprawling Old Blush climber. Here's the evidence.

http://www.pbase.com/image/23272504
http://www.pbase.com/image/23272556

I'm rather down about it at the moment. I'm assuming that this 20 foot
rose bush has to go, right?

Please, somebody tell me I'm wrong.

Please.

Hi Dave,

You may not have to remove the entire bush. Have the symptoms just recently
appeared and have you just noticed the disease on this one cane? You may be
able to save your rose by removing entirely the one infected cane - burn it
or wrap it tightly in plastic before throwing it out. If it is too late to
save the rest of the plant, you will know soon enough as this disease
spreads rapidly. If you notice any more symptoms after removing the one
infected cane, you will have to remove the entire plant, disposing of it as
described above, or your other roses will be at serious risk.

The problem after that remains concern over the mite (Phyllocoptes
fructiphilus) that transfers rose rosette. It is not affected by
traditional miticides. You must use a systemic insecticide/miticide
containing dimethoate, not an attractive option if you are an avowed "no
spray" person.

You have my deepest sympathies as this is definitely a dagger in the heart
of anyone who grows roses. I'm going to hope you caught it in time to save
your valuable mature climber.

Mike