Three Sterling Silver roses are having multiple issues. I’m not sure what the issues stem from. I believe they have at minimum rust and mildew. They are 3 years old. In Bay Area CA, facing west, have sun about 8 hours, plenty of draining water. They still bloom nicely.
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The fungal issues appear to be mainly on last year’s foliage, which is completely normal. I see obvious rust, possible mildew and definite hard water spotting. If it offends you, pull off the damaged foliage, water the plants well and continue with your fertilizing schedule. I’m in Santa Maria, a few hours south of you. This is Sterling Silver in the back yard now. I don’t spray anything. I have to grow everything in cans due to engineered soil and invasive tree roots and I can only fertilize with Miracle Gro Liquid as the dogs EAT everything. Between the dogs, raccoons and opossums, I can’t use anything organic as that is FOOD. You will see slight saw fly larvae damage on the foliage in my photos, which will subside once the heat rises a bit more. Remove the old foliage and keep them appropriately watered and fed. Sterling Silver isn’t a very vigorous variety and its health has always been subpar, but the scent, color and legend keep it going.
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Thanks so much for the detailed insight on the Sterling Silver roses. I’ll keep working through the process and see how they respond over the next stretch. With any luck, they’ll hit that turning point where they start to look more settled in and less like they’re fighting for their lives. These older hybrid teas can be dramatic, but I’m hoping consistency and patience will coax them into looking like proper, established plants.
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You’re welcome. Be steady with the fertilizer and water and you’ll love Sterling Silver.
What have you done to control the mildew and especially the rust?
I’ve been remiss in removing the affected leaves because I don’t like the rose constantly looking dead, and I’m trying to not use chemicals. The airflow isn’t an issue, and watering happens early in the day before the sun rises.
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Your rose is not one of the most disease resistant roses. Would you consider using some of the organic or biorational controls? Rust is difficult to control without spraying anything. Look at the new organic fungicide under the Magic Gardener label. It should be labeled for use in California already or shortly.
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Maybe some Bonide fungicide or Bioadvanced Rose & Flower Care.