Marianne's Response
lacy leaves on my rose bushes
My beautiful roses look terrible I have never had this problem before. I have done some research an cannot find any green worms on bottom of my leaves but lots of little white specs. I’m hoping for a solution that I can do myself BUT if necessary as a last resort I will use chemicals.
Thanking you in advance Marianne. I have enjoyed your articles in our Daily News for years. Love you sense of humor.
Adele Gowdy
Posted by adele gowdy on August 24, 2017
Marianne's Response
Hi Adele - I have also had this problem with my roses. When you see leaves turned to lacework it is usually a tiny green worm hard to see. White specs are the remains or scat. A spray with BT is the least toxic ( other than hand squishing) and good cleanup of leaves in fall is essential. The worms will be found on the clean foliage as they move soon after chewing on the leaves that show damage. At least this pest rarely kills the plant - but I agree lace work is not a good look for rose leaves. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti
Search the Ask the Gardening Expert library
Looking for a quick resolution to your problem? Marianne has answered thousands of gardening questions. One may be similar to yours. Try searching our library to get the answer you need — fast!