unwanted rose bushes - Ask Extension
I live in Salem Oregon.
I have 3 rose bushes that get the orange spots on them every spring. I do use a rose fungicide. It doesn't help. I have...
Knowledgebase
unwanted rose bushes #929154
Asked April 21, 2026, 6:12 PM EDT
I live in Salem Oregon.
I have 3 rose bushes that get the orange spots on them every spring. I do use a rose fungicide. It doesn't help. I have to cut all the leaves off in April. Then the new growth is usually fine. I am getting to old to keep doing this. I used to have 5 of these bushes but I have had two of them dug out. The roots were huge. Is there a way to kill the bushes without digging up the roots.
Marion County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Flo,
Thanks for contacting us about removing rose bushes. The easiest way to handle removal is to cut the plants off just below the soil line and then 'paint' all of the cut surfaces with glyphosate. Glyphosate is not a restricted-use pesticide for private property owners. It is still available in some stores however, be sure to check ingredient labels since brand names like Roundup are no longer formulated with glyphosate.
This should prevent the root from regrowing, however, you may need to use a second treatment if suckers do sprout. This is the only way to kill the root safely without digging it up.
I hope this is helpful. Please write again any time.
Thanks for contacting us about removing rose bushes. The easiest way to handle removal is to cut the plants off just below the soil line and then 'paint' all of the cut surfaces with glyphosate. Glyphosate is not a restricted-use pesticide for private property owners. It is still available in some stores however, be sure to check ingredient labels since brand names like Roundup are no longer formulated with glyphosate.
This should prevent the root from regrowing, however, you may need to use a second treatment if suckers do sprout. This is the only way to kill the root safely without digging it up.
I hope this is helpful. Please write again any time.
Thankyou for this answer. I will try it.
