The last two weeks I had beautiful blooms on Golden Opportunity. Today I went out and something is eating the outer petals on all the buds!
What could it be and how do I treat it?
It could either be a caterpillar or a grasshopper or Katydid. You may not want to “treat it” as that would entail using a pesticide which would kill off the beneficial insects first and prevent birds from visiting your roses and helping to eliminate pests. Sometimes, if your energy and schedule permit, a stroll through the roses early in the morning and late in the afternoon can help you notice when the insects are feeding so you can eliminate them yourself. Usually, they’ll feed when the sun isn’t directly shining on the flowers as most insects prefer milder conditions to feed in. If you decide you do wish to apply pesticide, choose one for chewing insects as opposed to sucking insects to more directly target your particular pest.
I have seen cucumber beetles - could that be the culprit?
Usually, cucumber beetles eat the stamen and anthers out of the center of the blooms. But, according to this article from Ohio State University, yes, that could be your culprit.
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I’m in 7a…same problems…..I found a large black ant on one….and a very small worm on a couple…I agree with their advice…Walking your garden in the morning and each evening if you have time is the best way to spot them and simply remove them by hand….eventually they’ll get the message. Good luck….
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