What's eating my darcey bussell rose?

Darcey Bussell Rose, a compact crimson David Austin shrub, is primarily attacked by aphids, rose sawfly, black spot, and slugs on new growth. Aphids are the most persistent threat. The deep-red flowers and bushy growth make close inspection important; aphid colonies often hide in curled foliage before the infestation becomes visible.

Dense green or dark colonies on growing tips and bud stalks; honeydew drip, sooty mould, and distorted new leaves Remove colonies by hand or water jet; apply insecticidal soap or pyrethrin; plant lavender or marigolds nearby to attract aphid predators

Skeletonised leaflets or tightly rolled leaves; pale green larvae visible on undersides; affected growth browns quickly Hand-pick affected leaves and larvae; spray pyrethrin if numbers are high; check undersides weekly during May and June

Circular black spots and surrounding yellowing on leaves; leaf drop weakens plants, reducing repeat-flowering ability Collect and bin fallen leaves; spray myclobutanil or trifloxystrobin preventatively from spring; mulch to suppress soil-splash

Irregular holes in young leaves at ground level; tell-tale slime trails visible in the morning Apply ferric phosphate pellets; beer traps; hand-pick at night; keep surrounding soil clear of dense debris