How do I Prune Knockout Rose Shurbs?
Knockout roses are hybrid shrub roses that are resistant to disease and require no deadheading. Knockout roses bloom from spring until frost in striking 3-inch red blooms. Leave the Knockout rose to grow during its first year, waiting until its second year to do the first pruning, according to California Master Gardeners. The best time to prune is while the plant is dormant, just before bud break. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Sharp pruning shears
- Tub or bucket
- Bleach or Lysol disinfectant
- Rake
- Rose food
- Mulch
Instructions
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Mix 5 parts of water to 1 part of household bleach. If you are concerned about the corrosive properties of bleach, use Lysol disinfectant, full strength.
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Place the pruning shears into a tub or bucket and pour the disinfectant solution over them. Allow the pruners to soak for 5 minutes. Take the bucket into the garden with you and dip the pruners into the solution when you switch from one bush to another, and to hold the pruners when you are not using them.
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3
Clear the soil beneath the Knockout rose of any leaves, flowers and old mulch. Bag it up and dispose of it.
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4
Cut off all dead roses and any black twigs or canes.
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Remove branches that stick out from the rest of the plant. Cut these branches just above a bud, at a 45-degree angle.
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6
Stand back and check the shape of the Knockout rose shrub. It should have an evenly rounded appearance and stand 25 to 30 inches tall.
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Fertilize the Knockout rose immediately after pruning. Use rose fertilizer, at the rate recommended on the label. Always water after fertilizing.
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Add some fresh mulch to the soil, 2 inches away from the base of the Knockout rose shrub.
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References
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- Photo Credit taille image by Claudio Calcagno from Fotolia.com
