Rose Stems Treated For Blackspot

Yes, I know the pruning cut has been sloped the wrong way (it should slope away from the bud to help keep it dry). But the roses are on the move. I thought the cold might have held them back. Not so.

Treated stems with 'Systhane' (myclobutanil) to suppress germination of blackspot spores overwintering on the wood.

Old wood is the worst for harbouring disease spores, since the deeper cracks provide ideal shelter.

Instead of 'Systhane', I could have used sulphur, which is a more organic way, but it is difficult to get into all the nicks and crannies. And I only have sulphur powder, which soon wears or washes off.

I shall spray again as soon as the buds begin to open, or in a fortnight, whichever is sooner.