What's eating my wild edric rose?

Wild Edric Rose, a semi-double David Austin shrub rose with good disease resistance, faces aphids, rose sawfly, black spot, and rabbits. Aphids are the primary pest each season. Its robust constitution reduces fungal problems, but aphid colonies on fresh spring growth still need prompt attention to prevent spread to buds.

Colonies clustered on new shoot extensions and bud stems; distorted growth and sticky honeydew followed by sooty mould Dislodge with water jet or soap spray; encourage hoverflies, lacewings, and ladybirds; intervene early to keep populations from peaking

Leaflets curled tightly downward sheltering small larvae; curled leaves dry out and remain on the plant after larvae drop Remove and dispose of curled leaves; apply pyrethrin spray; avoid insecticides in bloom to protect pollinators

Black spots ringed with yellow on leaves; premature defoliation in summer weakens next season's flowering Rake and bin fallen leaves; spray myclobutanil fungicide; choose resistant companion plants and mulch to limit soil-splash

Stems chewed to a clean angle near the base; bark stripped over winter; youngest canes most vulnerable Fit plastic spiral stem guards; erect perimeter wire netting; apply proprietary rabbit repellent spray