Yes, Miss Mary, give that rootstock the bum's rush out of your garden. Deer or no deer it's got to go.

How do you keep deer from damaging your potted roses? What size pots are you using?

Having a number of relatives in Maryland, specifically in Severn and Baltimore, and having visited there since my childhood, I am so well aware of the 'Miss,' 'Mister,' preface used before an elder person's first name as a sign of respect and endearment. So, Miss Mary, I wish you great success with your roses, and few growing issues that you cannot get good advice thereupon, by accessing your fellow Roses Forum members for assistance.

Mister Moses

Thank You, Mister Moses, for "permission"! Encouragement, even!

We are in Howard County - so not too far west from your relatives.

I have my pots up on a deck that the deer can't maneuver to; just the raccoons, squirrels and chipmunks. But they don't harass my roses.

I always appreciate your comments and help! This forum is a lifeline for me in gathering helpful rose guidance.

Miss Mary

Miss Mary,

Beautiful, Beautiful Howard County. Lots of farms on fertile land, stretched out on rolling hills. Historic sites everywhere you turn. Almost Paradise....except for black spot for sure, possibly rose midge fly, spider mites in July, Japanese Beetles, too, but nothing that there isn't a solution for. Enjoy your roses.

Mister Moses