Troubleshooting
The Pilgrim Rose problems — and how to fix them
The Pilgrim Rose (Rosa 'The Pilgrim') 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.
Blackspot
Possible in wet seasons. Improve airflow, water at the base, remove infected leaves and apply preventative sprays when disease pressure is high.
Poor flowering low on climbers
Upright canes bloom mainly at the top. Train main stems horizontally along wires to encourage flowering side-shoots lower down.
Bloom balling in rain
The petal-packed flowers can fail to open in prolonged wet. Site in an open, airy position and remove spoiled buds promptly.
Aphids
Colonise soft new growth and buds. Hose off, encourage predators, or treat with insecticidal soap on heavy infestations.
Prevent the pilgrim rose problems before they start
Most the pilgrim rose issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for the pilgrim rose in general rather than its problems? Read the full the pilgrim rose care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
The Pilgrim Rose problems — FAQ
Why is my the pilgrim rose blackspot?
Possible in wet seasons. Improve airflow, water at the base, remove infected leaves and apply preventative sprays when disease pressure is high.
Why is my the pilgrim rose poor flowering low on climbers?
Upright canes bloom mainly at the top. Train main stems horizontally along wires to encourage flowering side-shoots lower down.
Why is my the pilgrim rose bloom balling in rain?
The petal-packed flowers can fail to open in prolonged wet. Site in an open, airy position and remove spoiled buds promptly.
Why is my the pilgrim rose aphids?
Colonise soft new growth and buds. Hose off, encourage predators, or treat with insecticidal soap on heavy infestations.