Common problems

Blackspot: black-purple spots on leaves that yellow and drop. Solution: pick up and bin fallen leaves, mulch in early spring, choose resistant varieties.

Aphids: clusters on new shoots. Solution: blast with water, encourage ladybirds with companion calendula.

Powdery mildew: white dusting in dry summers. Solution: water at the roots, not leaves; weekly milk spray (1:9) helps.

Rose rust: orange patches on leaf undersides. Solution: remove affected leaves, improve airflow, avoid overhead watering.