Black spot is a common fungal disease affecting UK roses in winter, but gardening experts say natural remedies can help prevent it.
04:09, Sun, Jan 11, 2026
Roses will never suffer from black spot disease if you use 1 natural item in January (Image: Getty)
Gardening enthusiasts should be aware that roses require protection not only from the cold in January but also from diseases like black spot, which can thrive in wet weather conditions. Black spot is a severe fungal disease that causes roses to develop black patches on their leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off.
The spores of this disease are typically windborne but need water to germinate, making rainy and sludgy conditions particularly hazardous for your garden. While black spot is unlikely to kill roses outright, if left untreated, it can significantly weaken the plant, reducing its chances of winter survival. It can also stunt the growth of a rose plant and hinder its ability to produce flowers, leaving your garden bare come summer. However, experts at Dammann’s Garden Company have claimed that preventing black spot is incredibly straightforward and doesn’t require harsh chemicals.
Garden lovers should be aware that roses require protection against black spot disease in winter (Image: Getty)
Surprisingly, natural remedies such as baking soda can prevent the disease by creating an alkaline environment on the surface, disrupting spore growth. Even simple white vinegar, the kind you’d sprinkle on chips, can help combat black spot disease.
Its acetic acid content, which has mild antifungal properties, can effectively kill spores. The specialists explained: “Toxic solutions might be effective, but they are damaging to your garden and soil and should be used as a last resort.
“Vinegar and baking soda are a great way to safely combat the growing fungus by changing the pH balance. A mixture of cow’s milk and water will do the same thing.”
The proteins found in cow’s milk possess antifungal properties whilst also functioning as a surfactant, meaning they'll not only eliminate spores but also prevent them from germinating on foliage.
Neem oil represents another effective option, creating a protective barrier around roses. This coating makes it challenging for spores to proliferate and disrupts any already established on the plant.
Cow’s milk can be used to protect roses against black spot disease (Image: Getty)
The specialists noted: “This is a commercial oil that is derived from evergreen neem trees, and works great as a natural fungicide, preventing the Black Spot-causing fungus from thriving. Make sure you follow the directions on the container to mix the oil to the right concentration.”
If your roses remain in good health and you’re merely concerned about potential infection, the most effective prevention method involves keeping your blooms dry.
Overgrown roses tend to trap moisture and restrict air circulation, creating ideal conditions for disease development. Ensure you trim your roses at the appropriate time, which is typically during February or March.
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Additionally, clear away any debris or dropped leaves surrounding your roses. Spores can readily transfer via fallen foliage, which retains considerable moisture.
Mulching your roses in winter is crucial to ensure they have sufficient water during the chilly weather, whilst also suppressing weeds and preventing spore spread. The experts instructed: “Add a layer of mulch to the soil to keep the moisture locked in despite the better airflow, simultaneously keeping the roots healthy and suffocating developing weeds.”