Frank BrinesARS Master Consulting RosarianThere were signs of climate change again this year. Temperatures and rainfall patterns differed greatly from last year, with temps lower for longer, and much less rain and spread out over a longer period. Rose growth and development are dependent on weather, and flower production is particularly impacted by inconsistent temperatures, sun and water. All of this has made it more difficult for me to predict what to do and when to do it.The longer time frame for rain and more misty cool nights caused some rust, mildew and Botritis fungi to appear quickly. Blooms were affected by Botritis which “rots” the petals, preventing them from opening successfully. A few warmer days would encourage growth and produce buds, then a few days of 70-80
