Flower-balling is characterised by the following appearance:

• The bud often feels soft and slimy to the touch; and then the outer petals turn brown, becoming dry and crisp in places
• When the outer petals are prized apart, the inner petals appear normal
• The bud may drop off or, if it hangs on the plant, grey mould may develop and cause it to rot
• Thin-petalled, double flowers such as rose, peony and camellia cultivars are most susceptible to this condition

Non chemical

• Good air circulation is crucial to dry the buds quickly. When planting roses, choose an open site (but not exposed). With existing plantings, increase ventilation by pruning correctly; staking peonies; and cutting back overhanging shrubs or trees
• Water plants in the evening, avoiding hot, sunny conditions, and always direct water at the base of plants rather than the foliage and flowers
• In certain situations, it may be feasible to construct a temporary shelter over the whole plant or individual buds to protect them from rain
• Remove balled buds promptly before grey mould sets in as it can infect other blooms or nearby plants and cause dieback of stems
• Replacement of repeat offenders is sometimes the only remedy. Modern cultivars particularly of roses are said to be less affected

Chemical

There are no chemicals treatments for this disorder.