Strange Growths on Rose Stems
My old fashioned "farmer" roses have developed growths on their stems and even on their roots. I think they are called "galls." Is there anything that can be used to kill this disease? I have cut out the damaged stems and roots but it seems to spread nevertheless.
Lumps and strange growths are often classified as galls. Most are growths the plants produce in response to insect feeding. Unfortunately in your case the rose galls are caused by a bacteria. You can continue to remove the galls by pruning below the swollen node into healthy tissue. Always disinfect your tools with bleach or alcohol between cuts. Or remove the plant and wait several years before planting another rose or crown gall susceptible plant in this location.
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