Well Henry, this is extremely interesting. This is exactly what I have with my carpet roses. I have tried several fertilizers and systemic products, to no avail. I have 7 rose bushes that are affected. They are bordering the front walkway to my front door. I am disappointed with the appearance of them, but I was hoping that if I cut them back in the fall that maybe next year they would rebound. According to this article, I guess not.

Were you able to rule out herbicide damage from lawn care products or weed killers?

If it is not caused by herbicide damage, then it is imperative that you carefully dispose of the roses in sealed tight bags. Make sure you get the roots also. If you don't, you endanger your other roses--and your neighbors' roses.

Terrible having to face up to it, isn't it. Happens to most of us, sooner or later, if that is any consolation.

Kate