Cracks and splits in rose leaves

whollydavesmith

I have looked on various websites and can't find anything resembling what one of my roses is experiencing. The leaves start out fine, but then dry out, develop cracks and splits and eventually crumble. The developing buds look fine and there is no sign of any pests. I don't think it's caused by under or over-watering either. Any suggestions welcome! this is just my second year with roses, so I am a novice!

Nollie

If there is definitely no sign of insects, including under the leaves, could it be sun scorch? Looks as if they are in pots, they do need a huge amount of water, much more than when they are in the ground. Are you only watering at the base of the plant and not on the leaves? Plus feeding them? Is that glass behind? That could magnify the sun causing scorching. I do get the odd rose leaf like that but I have hot conditions, so that’s what springs to mind, but could be something else entirely. Sorry, more questions than answers, hopefully someone else will reply with more knowledge than me!

B3

I'd say it was wind damage or being knocked when the leaves were young and soft

BobTheGardener

Or hail damage.  Physical damage rather than pest or disease I would say.

Edit: I've just noticed the leaf top-right in your 1st photo.  If the green is being eaten leaving lacy remains of the leaf, it could be rose slug sawfly:

https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=932