Recognize and treat blackened soot

Diagnosing black spots

The disease occurs primarily after wet and cool summers and is fairly easy to diagnose: On the rose petals appear at first sporadically, later more and more round, black-brown colored leaf spots. As the name of the disease suggests, these have a radiant edge. Around the large, rather irregular spots, the leaves usually turn yellow. The infected leaves turn yellow at first and then fall off completely. With a strong infestation, the rose can lose almost all of its foliage and thus be immensely weakened. For this reason, the fungus should be treated as soon as possible, because in the worst case non-treatment can even lead to the death of the rose.

How can you effectively fight blackened soot?

When it comes to combating it, you don't need to hope for winter, because the fungal spores overwinter in the rose leaves and thus ensure a renewed infection in the next year as well. Therefore, infected leaves must be removed immediately and disposed of with household waste, including those on the floor. Thoroughly rake up fallen leaves and do not throw them on top of the compost at all - that would just create a new source of infection. Many advisors recommend fungicides, i.e. chemical fungicides, for combating them. As a rule, however, these are not necessary at all - at least if you noticed the infestation early on - and they also have a negative impact on the natural balance in the garden. Natural,

self-made sprays on the basis of Field horsetail, Comfrey or garlic are very effective.

Preventing blackened soot sensibly

These agents - above all the field horsetail broth - can also be sprayed preventively in order to prevent an infestation before the leaves sprout. This measure should be carried out in the spring, when the leaves are just beginning to unfold. Spray the roses several days in a row, but it should be dry and moderately mild. You can also reduce the soot from the star if the rose is well ventilated - thanks an optimal location, the correct planting distance and a regular pruning - as well as one balanced fertilization prevent.