Troubleshooting
Bonica Rose problems — and how to fix them
Bonica Rose (Rosa 'Bonica') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leaves on lower canes
Spreading habit can shade out and bare the lower interior; thin a few old canes in late winter to open the centre and keep foliage even.
Self-seeding from hips
If hips are left and drop, occasional volunteer seedlings appear, but they will not come true to the cultivar; remove unwanted seedlings or deadhead to prevent hips.
Occasional black spot
Highly resistant but susceptible in long wet spells; clear fallen leaves, water at the base and ensure spacing for airflow to keep it in check.
Sprawl without pruning
Left unpruned the shrub spreads wide and can flop; a light shaping prune in late winter and removal of the oldest third of canes maintains a tidy form.
Prevent bonica rose problems before they start
Most bonica rose issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for bonica rose in general rather than its problems? Read the full bonica rose care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Bonica Rose problems — FAQ
Why is my bonica rose leaves on lower canes?
Spreading habit can shade out and bare the lower interior; thin a few old canes in late winter to open the centre and keep foliage even.
Why is my bonica rose self-seeding from hips?
If hips are left and drop, occasional volunteer seedlings appear, but they will not come true to the cultivar; remove unwanted seedlings or deadhead to prevent hips.
Why is my bonica rose occasional black spot?
Highly resistant but susceptible in long wet spells; clear fallen leaves, water at the base and ensure spacing for airflow to keep it in check.
Why is my bonica rose sprawl without pruning?
Left unpruned the shrub spreads wide and can flop; a light shaping prune in late winter and removal of the oldest third of canes maintains a tidy form.