Rose blooms for Thanksgiving are possible

Temperatures in the area have become more moderate and recent, humid mornings are making roses happy. Even so, some problems could result, such as powdery mildew and black spot.

Roses would benefit from a good rinsing to remove any dust; be sure to keep moisture off the blossoms to prevent the fungal disease Botrytis. You’ve probably completed the light mid-season pruning I suggested; if you pruned out dead and crossing canes through the middle of the plant you have probably improved the air circulation through your rose bushes; this is a good way to reduce fungal diseases, especially in humid...