The Height to Trim Knock Out Roses
Introduced in 2000, the Knock Out rose is a hardy, highly disease-resistant shrub rose developed by Wisconsin rose breeder William Radler. Trimming Knock Out roses to the correct height is a process any gardener can accomplish. Does this Spark an idea?
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When to Trim
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Most rose varieties require pruning in the early spring to encourage new growth and blooms, to shape the plant and to remove dead wood. While Knock Out rose plants can go without pruning to encourage blooms during the first two years after planting, the shrub should be cut to remove dead wood and to shape the plant.
How to Trim
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Use only clean, sharp pruning shears. Make all cuts at a 45-degree angle and make sure each cut is a clean cut with no ragged edges. Make the cuts about 1/4 inch above an outward-facing bud. Slant the cut away from the bud.
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Suggested Height
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Use the "one-third" method when pruning Knock Out roses. Remove a third of the oldest canes each year, taking the plant down by one-third of its height. Although only 12 to 18 inches of the rose plant may remain after following this method, it will grow back quickly.
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References
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