Although I am not familiar with new growth on CS, I think it is very probably RRD. I would say, remove the underlying cane immediately because RRD low on the plant will go systemic more quickly. Also there is contact with other foliage so the mites may be crawling over. Actually I recommend cutting the whole plant to the ground for that reason and watching the regrowth daily.

But let's hear others' opinions.

Certainly, the RRD mites are still active.

I think it's RRD.

This is the time of the year that mite populations surge according to mite counts done in Iowa and southernmost Indiana, not far from Frankfort KY.

Oh, that ugly, ugly stuff--I hate it! That is RRD, as far as I'm concerned also. Good advice above--though I might not be that optimistic and would destroy the bush, roots and all, rather than take the chance that it would spread to other roses. My experience is that if it hits your garden once, it will hit twice--at least!

So disappointing, I know. Really upsets me sometimes.

Kate

I am disappointed that no one has asked about possible herbicide exposure.

Of course cut the cane off, but if you or your neighbors applied a fall weed and feed application you may have found only the first signs of a so called RRD "epidemic"!

dublinbay, It really upsets me also. This is an old bush from a friend. I hate to loose it. :-(

anntn6b Thanks for the information. For some reason I thought the mites died after the end of July. Bummer.

michaelg Thanks for the help. It is raining but tomorrow I am going to get my pruning sheers out. So sad :-(

I am glad this group is here to help.

Brooks23

henry_kuska Far as I know there has not been any herbicide in my yard or my neighbors. ( My neighbors barely mow)

Brooks23

RRD begins on one shoot if you have been monitoring regularly--herbicide damage usually more widespread.

michaelg , Yes this is just on one branch.I have been checking my roses every day but almost missed this because it was at the bottom of the rose bush. The rest of the plant looks good. :-(
Brooks23

Herbicide damage can come from the soil. It does not have to come from spraying.