How to Grow Knock Out Roses

The Knock Out rose resists common rose diseases and has few maintenance requirements.

The original Knock Out rose was a cross between the "Carefree Beauty" and "Razzle Dazzle" cultivars. William Radler bred the Knock Out rose for disease resistance, cold tolerance and easy maintenance. He introduced the new cultivar in 2000 with great success. The Knock Out rose removes the apprehension many home gardeners feel about growing roses. They are hearty plants that resist black spot and powdery mildew. They are drought tolerant, require little pruning, and are nearly maintenance free.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Mulch
• Garden hose or irrigation system
• Fertilizer
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Plant a Knock Out rose in a sunny location in the garden that receives a minimum of six hours of sunlight each day. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 6.5.

2. Surround the rosebush with 3 inches of organic mulch each spring, but do not allow the mulch to touch the base of the bush.

3. Water the Knock Out rosebush daily. Keep the soil moist, but not overly saturated during the summer growing season. Water in the mornings so the foliage can dry in the afternoon sun, or use a drip irrigation system to keep the soil consistently moist.

4. Fertilize regularly with a nitrogen-rich rose fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the appropriate fertilizing schedule. In general, fertilize weekly with liquid fertilizer, or apply slow-release granules each month during the growing season.

5. Prune a Knock Out rosebush each spring to 12 to 18 inches above the ground. This pruning rejuvenates the bush and keeps the bush a smaller size. If you prefer a taller bush, prune away only dead or damaged stems in the spring.

References

• University of Florida: Knock Out Roses
• University of Florida; You Can Have Roses in Your Nassau County Garden; Jane Brown
• Texas A&M Aggie Horticulture: 'Knock Out' Rose