Rose Slug - Rose Sawfly
Lacy leaves that eventually turn brown on roses may be a clue that rose slugs, actually a sawfly, are dining on your plants.
A close look at the underside of the leaves, especially at night, may reveal the culprit. Look for a slimy green worm-like insect that looks like, but is not a slug or caterpillar. Often the insect has finished feeding and moved on by the time we notice the damage.
Though the damage is disheartening to the gardener, it is usually not life threatening to the plant.
Natural predators, virus and disease help manage their populations.
If you discover rose sawflies early and treatment is desired, try picking them off by hand. Or knock them off and kill them with a strong blast of water to both the upper and lower leaf surfaces.
Eco-friendly products like insecticidal soap or horticulture oil will also provide control.
A bit more information: The adult, fly-like, rose sawfly doesn't feed on the plant. It just mates and lays eggs for the next generation. There may be one, two or more generations per season depending on the type of rose sawfly.
Related
Audio
Audio
Audio
Categories
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
May 17, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
May 18, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 1, 2025
Growing, Harvesting & Preserving Favorite Italian Herbs for Food and Drink Demos
Festa Italiana-Cucina Showcase
Milwaukee, WI
June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds
Register here
June 8, 2025
Selecting the Right Hydrangea
for Your Landscape
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 14, 2025
Houseplants 101
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 20, 2025 (event 6/20-6/22)
Pollinator Celebration
Vino in the Valley
Maiden Rock, WI
Register here
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More
Book an Appearance
