Not every rose blooms quite as expected. Some buds pause mid-flower, their petals slightly scorched or held tight, reluctant to unfurl. Often, the cause is easy to miss. In warm, dry spells, tiny insects known as thrips can quietly make their way into the garden. Drawn to the shelter of rosebuds, they feed by piercing soft tissue, leaving behind crumpled petals and pale markings on nearby leaves. It can feel disheartening, especially when you’ve been waiting for that first flush of bloom. But there’s no need to worry. Thrips are manageable without sprays, and in most cases they move on quickly. Begin by removing any damaged buds or spent flowers, which takes away both food and shelter. Clear fallen petals from around the base and keep the area tidy, encouraging natural predators such as ladybirds and lacewings to play their part. If a bud is damaged but still holding on, try easing back the outer petals to help it open. With a little care, the garden soon finds its balance again. New buds will form, and fresh petals will follow. You’ll find more advice in our recent blog, linked in our bio. #DavidAustinRoses