A leading gardening influencer has issued a warning to gardeners across the UK, urging them to remove and destroy any rose leaves displaying black spots—a common sign of a serious fungal disease.
Michael, known as The Mediterranean Gardener on TikTok, has amassed nearly 300,000 followers by sharing practical gardening advice. In a recent video, he highlighted the importance of acting swiftly if black-spotted leaves are found in the garden.
According to Michael, these black spots are a symptom of one of the most severe fungal diseases affecting roses. If left untreated, the spots cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off, weakening the plant and reducing its ability to bloom.
“The best thing you can do is pick them off,” Michael advised. He stressed that all affected leaves should be removed, even if it means stripping the plant completely. Importantly, he warned gardeners not to place these diseased leaves in compost heaps, as this could spread the fungus further.
Gardeners are encouraged to dispose of the infected leaves in household waste or by burning them, ensuring the disease does not return to the garden.
This proactive approach, Michael says, will help keep roses healthy and blooming throughout the summer.
