# Pests of Climbing Roses in Alaska
The insects that generally infest roses also affect roses growing in Alaska. It makes little difference whether the rose is a climbing variety or shrub type, because these insects are equal-opportunity pests.
-
Aphids
-
Aphids are fleshy, oval, transparent bugs that suck juices from the leaves and flowers of roses. They leave shiny, sticky droppings called honeydew on the leaves. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or a solution of mild dish soap and water.
Spider Mites
-
Spider mites are nearly microscopic, and the pin-pricked appearance of the leaves
is the first indication of their presence. They can be controlled with multiple applications of insecticidal soap, systemics, or a solution of mild dish soap and water.
Thrips
-
Thrips are tiny sliver-like insects with wings and are recognized by the silvery sheen they leave on leaves. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or a solution of mild dish soap and water. Systemic herbicide is helpful, as is reflective mulch, which confuses the insect's infrared detection systems.
Rose Midge
-
A rose midge will attack the buds on the rose, causing them not to bloom. The adults look similar to mosquitoes, and they lay eggs on the newly growing tips where the flower buds develop. Insecticides containing cyfluthrin are the only effective control.
-
