What Causes Yellow Leaves on Rose Bushes?

Growing and caring for roses is no easy task. One problem that many gardeners face is that the leaves on their rose bushes start to turn yellow. There are actually many different reasons for yellowing leaves and it can take some detective work to get to the bottom of the problem. Here are of some of the most common causes of yellow leaves on rose bushes.

Typically there are two main reasons that rose leaves would begin yellowing. First, in some cases it's just part of the natural life cycle of the bush. As it ages leaves toward the bottom of the bush naturally turn yellow or brown and fall off. In this case there is nothing to worry about. You can just pull off any dead leaves and the bush should continue growing as usual.

The second reason for yellowing leaves is if the bush is under any kind of stress. In this case it's important to figure out what is stressing the rose bush or it could wind up dying. Stress can be caused by any number of factors including the amount of water and sun that the rose bush is getting, the temperature, the soil and more. Here are some things to check.

Are you overwatering or underwatering?

Many people make the mistake of either drowning their rose bushes or not giving them enough water. In warm temperatures rose bushes can can require large amounts of water -- even as much as 5 gallons a day when it's very hot out! Water the plant directly at the base rather than on the leaves. Make sure that the soil is thoroughly saturated. It is better to water deeply a couple of times a week instead of doing multiple shallow waterings.

Is the pH of your soil correct?

Determine what breed of rose you have and look up what the pH of the soil should be. Most roses thrive at a pH of about 6.5. Test your soil and make sure it pH is in line with what the rose needs. If not, add products to the soil to alter the pH to a suitable level.

Are you over fertilizing or starving your rosebush?

Another of the most common reasons for yellow leaves is that either you are using too much fertilizer or not enough fertilizer. A good rule of thumb is that the more often your rose bush blooms, the more fertilizer it will need. Always follow the directions on the fertilizer package.

Does it need pruning?

Sometimes, rose bushes just become overgrown and need trimming back. If the rosebush gets too large or develops too many canes it will require more energy and can become stressed simply trying to stay alive. Trimming back some of the canes will allow the bush to focus its energy so it can thrive and grow.

Are the roots healthy?

Finally, make sure that no small rodents have dug around the roots of the rosebush. If the roots of the plant are exposed it can lead to poor health. Simply fill in around the roots and make sure they are covered with soil.

Hopefully through a process of trial and error and by using these tips you can determine what is causing the leaves on your rosebush turn yellow. Once you eliminate the problem your rose should return to its normal, healthy self.