Knockout Rose Problems
Knockout roses are a generally low-maintenance member of the rose family. They are particularly attractive with clusters of tea rose-scented flowers that resist fading. Despite their overall resistance to many common rose ailments, they can still suffer from black spot disease, aphids, poor soil conditions and drainage issues. Most of these conditions can be readily treated or cured. Does this Spark an idea?
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Black Spot Disease
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Black spot disease is a fungus that affects many rose varieties. Though Knockout roses seem to be less susceptible to it than other rose varieties, they are not fully immune. This disease is characterized by the appearance of black spots on recently formed leaves. Each leaf will eventually turn a sickly shade of yellow before falling off. To prevent this condition, avoid watering roses in the evening and try to direct all water to the roots of the plant, rather than the leaves. If using an automated watering device, this may require some tinkering to ensure that the water only strikes the root area.
Excessive Moisture
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Mildew can appear on roses that are exposed to excessively damp conditions and/or high humidity. Characterized by a powdery residue, mildew can be treated by selectively pruning the affected areas and disposing of the trimmings far from the location of the rose bush. Additionally, care should be taken to address the underlying damp conditions that encouraged the growth of mildew. Chemical preparations designed to address mildew may be available at a garden center.
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Issues with Roots
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As with many other plants, Knockout roses are well suited to containers. However, it is important to situate them in containers that are appropriate for their growth. Containers should have adequate holes for drainage and plenty of room for expanding roots. Containers that are too small will cause the roots to dehydrate and the plant will wither and die. If purchasing a prepared soil, select one with a label that indicates the ability to grow roses. Some potting soils are too sandy, loamy or nutrient-deficient to support vigorous and healthy growth of Knockout roses.
Aphids
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Aphids, also known as plant lice, are insects that literally sap the juices out of plants. Their presence is usually characterized by curled-up leaves that are covered with a sticky substance. Aphids do not spread plant diseases, but they do reduce the beauty of rose specimens. As a natural remedy for aphids, many gardeners opt to introduce ladybugs into the garden. Helpful insects like ladybugs and lacewings can be purchased online from many retailers.
History
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William Radler developed the Knockout rose in 1988. Determined to develop a cold-hardy, disease-resistant rose, he crossed the Carefree Beauty rose with the Razzle Dazzle rose to obtain the required traits.
In 2000, the Knockout rose won the All-America Rose award and was introduced to the marketplace during that same year. Some 250,000 Knockout plants were sold in the first year.
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References
- Photo Credit Roses in the sky image by JMS from Fotolia.com
