Do I need to use harsh chemicals?

Usually no. Water sprays and insecticidal soaps are very effective and much safer for your garden.

Will aphids kill my rose buds?

They can cause the buds to become distorted or fail to open properly if the infestation is heavy.

What are these tiny bugs on my Field rose? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the flower buds for tiny clusters of bugs.
Check the undersides of new leaves for sticky residue.
See if ants are traveling up the stems.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green, pink, or black insects on the buds and new stems. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Blast the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your hose. If they persist, spray the affected areas with insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days.
Ant Activity
Possible
How to tell: You see ants crawling up and down the stems of your rose. They are likely farming the aphids for their honeydew.
What to do: Once you remove the aphids, the ants will lose interest. You can wrap a sticky barrier around the base of the stem to stop them from climbing.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your field rose

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

A few aphids are normal and usually managed by ladybugs. Worry only if the buds are deformed or the growth is stunted.

Stopping it coming back

Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to visit your garden by planting diverse flowers nearby.

Field rose: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your field rose and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Do I need to use harsh chemicals?: Usually no. Water sprays and insecticidal soaps are very effective and much safer for your garden.
Will aphids kill my rose buds?: They can cause the buds to become distorted or fail to open properly if the infestation is heavy.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these tiny bugs on my Field rose?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your field rose?