Rose problem

[Green Gerkin]

I have a new climbing rose planted in the ground in may. The first bud has not opened and is really heavy so I'm going to have to remove it before it snaps under the weight.
Any ideas what is wrong, why bud not opening?



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[WendyC]

It's known as balling. It's when the bud gets wet and then the outside petals dry preventing the flower from opening properly. Not a disease just a set of weather conditions. You can remove it or you might be able to gently peel back the outer petals to allow the flower to open properly. Some varieties are worse than others. I have lots of roses and the worst one is a David Austen rose called "Geoff Hamilton".

[Green Gerkin]

Thanks Wendyc I was worried it was a disease. Strangely it is a David Austin rose also, And ive never had it with other roses.
I will try opening it up and see what happens


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[WendyC]

That is interesting that is an English rose as well. I think it is because they are very full flowers with lots of petals.

[bend1pa]

Some variety of roses, not only the David Austin ones flower badly in the rain while other varieties are not affected If you have a rose that balls in the rain that problem is likely to continue. When you buy a rose it's a good idea to check whether that variety suffers from that problem.

[Jeanied]

Now I know what is wrong with my David Austin rose in the front garden! Thanks.