Controlling Black Spot on Roses; unleashing the power of Lime Sulphur
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June 24, 2023
Roses have an enduring allure with their breathtaking beauty and intoxicating fragrance. To maintain their health and vitality, need to keep on top of black spot disease. An effective treatment for black spot is the use of Lime Sulphur. In this blog post, we will delve into the benefits, applications, and considerations surrounding the use of Lime Sulphur.
Understanding Lime Sulphur
Lime Sulphur is manufactured from a mixture of lime (calcium hydroxide) and sulphur. It has been used in horticulture for centuries due to its fungicidal, insecticidal, and dormant spray properties. Lime Sulphur is highly effective against a range of pests and diseases, making it a valuable tool in the arsenal of rose enthusiasts.
Benefits of Lime Sulphur on Roses
Fungicidal Action: Lime Sulphur is renowned for its ability to control various fungal diseases that commonly afflict roses. This includes black spot, but also other common fungal problems, such as powdery mildew and rust. Lime Sulphur acts by preventing fungal spore germination and disrupting the growth of fungal pathogens. Controlling Black Spot requires regular application of Lime Sulphur but in doing so you will quickly see a massive improvement to the health of the foliage on your roses
Dormant Spray: Lime Sulphur is often used as a dormant spray during the winter months when roses are dormant. Applying Lime Sulphur to the pruned and bare rose canes helps eliminate overwintering pests and fungal spores. This dormant treatment plays a crucial role in preventing the buildup of pests and diseases, providing a clean start for your roses in the spring.
Insecticidal Properties: Lime Sulphur also exhibits insecticidal properties, making it effective against pests like aphids, scale insects, and mites that can infest rose plants. It suffocates and kills these pests by coating their bodies, disrupting their respiration and causing their demise. Regular monitoring and timely application of Lime Sulphur can help keep these troublesome insects at bay, reducing the risk of damage to your roses.
Application and Considerations
Timing: Lime Sulphur should be applied during the dormant season when the rose plants have shed their leaves and are in a state of dormancy. This typically occurs in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Applying lime sulphur during the growing season is possible but the dose rate needs to be reduced and it is best to use an organic soap, such as Yucca Extract, to spread it across the leaf and prevent spots of scorch.
Dilution and Application: Lime sulphur is sold as a concentrated solution that needs to be diluted with water before use. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dilution ratios and application methods.
Protective Measures: Lime Sulphur has a strong odor and can cause skin and eye irritation. Therefore, it is advisable to wear protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and a TYPE B FILTER MASK during its application. Ensure proper ventilation in the application area to prevent inhalation of fumes. Keep children and pets away from the treated area until the Lime Sulphur has dried. The smell dissipates after a few hours and the diluted solution is no longer hazardous.
Lime Sulphur can be used in organic systems; whilst not a natural extract, Lime Sulphur can be used in organic cultivation. This is due to its simple chemistry, and the fact that after a few hours it breaks down to non-hazardous simple plant nutrients.
Lime Sulphur is a valuable and versatile treatment for roses, offering fungicidal and insecticidal properties that help combat diseases and pests. When used correctly and at the appropriate times, Lime Sulphur can be a powerful tool in maintaining the health and beauty of your rose garden. Embrace this time-tested solution, and enjoy the rewards of vibrant, disease-free roses that grace your garden with their timeless elegance.
To purchase Eutrema Lime Sulphur, please visit our online shop:
