Question From: Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States
Q: Why does my climbing rose have clusters of tiny leaves on end of new brances. This is not normal for this climber that I've had for many years. It's called a Dr. Van Fleet I believe, it's an old name.
A:
Marie, It may have the deadly virus Rose Rosette Disease, spread by a tiny mite. There is no cure to prevent it spreading to other roses you should dig it out, bag up the canes and put it in the trash. Take photos of the tips in question to your local independent garden center or county horticulture agent for a positive ID. Also destroy and Wild roses (rosa multiflora) within 100 yards of your garden. I had a large wild rose that became infected a year ago. I removed it, but have since lost 5 plants. Good Luck and Happy Yardening, Nancy
