How to Prevent Bugs From Destroying Rose Bushes

Overview

Repelling and eliminating bugs from roses is essential in preventing the pests from destroying a rose bush. Bugs such as aphids, spider mites, Japanese Beatles, rose curculios, and whiteflies can consume and reproduce within weeks on a rose plant, consuming the flowers while they are still in their buds. Natural bug-killing methods can prevent common garden pests from destroying your rose bushes.

Aphids

Step 1

Mix a serving of nonfat dry milk according to the package and place in a spray bottle.

Step 2

Spray on the leaves plants that are plagued by aphids. The aphids will stick to the milk as it is drying and die.

Step 3

Rinse the liquid from the leaves with a hose or watering can from time to time and re-apply.

Spider Mites

Step 1

Mix together 1/2 tsp. of dish washing liquid and 1 quart of water.

Step 2

Flush the leaves and undersides of the plant thoroughly.

Step 3

Allow to dry and do not rinse off.

Whiteflies

Step 1

Cut out small squares of yellow poster board. Whiteflies are attracted to anything that is bright yellow.

Step 2

Cover the board pieces in petroleum jelly.

Step 3

Place near susceptible plants, and the whiteflies will stick to the jelly.

Step 4

Re-coat the poster board when it dries out.

Japanese Beetles and Rose Chafers

Step 1

Fill a bucket with some water and 1 tsp. of dish soap.

Step 2

Pick the adult beetles off the rose bushes and place them in the bucket. Do not squish the beetles, as any scent will attract more beetles to the area.

Step 3

Dispose of the beetles in a closed lid trashcan.

Step 4

Consider purchasing some parasitic nematodes online, from sites such as bugladyconsulting.com, or from organic gardening suppliers.

Rose Weevils and Caterpillars

Step 1

Fill a bucket with water and 1 tsp. of dish soap.

Step 2

Dip the affected buds in the solution. Gently shake off the weevils.

Step 3

Cut off any dead or severely infected buds, as they will most likely be carrying eggs.

Step 4

Spray the rose plants with neem oil.