Clear fallen rose leaves

The fungal spores of diseases such as blackspot can overwinter on fallen rose leaves through winter, ready to re-infect your plants in spring as soon as they start into growth again. To improve the chances of keeping your rose bushes healthy, pick up all the fallen leaves lying around at the base of plants and remove any leaves that still remain on the bushes. Rather than risk composting diseased leaves, put old rose foliage in your council green waste bin. Spread a fresh mulch of bark chips or leaf mould around the base of the plants to keep any remaining spores away from the roses.