It wasn’t until this year that I decided to give the Knockout rose a try, to see if it would be as wonderful a performer as everything I read about it suggested…
So far, I’m happy to report that not only does the cherry red Knockout rose knock me out, it’s rocking and knocking out all of the borders and areas lit up by its’ continued blooming presence. Companion plants with this rose are easy overall. So is this rose!
About the Knockout Rose
Knockout roses are (informal) shrub roses which first came to market in 2000. Selling more than 250,000 that year, this rose became the fastest selling rose ever! The Knockout is extremely low maintenance, disease resistant, drought tolerant and easy to grow. It’s hardy to zone 4. Currently, Knockout comes in yellow, red and pink. Flowers are 2.5 inch single, or in small clusters. Double and single flower varieties are available. Size is 3-4 feet high-by-3-4 feet wide.
What I love about the Knockout Rose
- It’s not fussy
- It’s not delicate
- It gives you a long season of flowering and color
- Love the bluish green foliage color of new growth
- Looks good even when it needs deadheading (a little rustic and wild but adds to its’ character!)
- Tolerates part shade easily
- Growth habit is compact
Disease Resistance and Ease of Care
In Zone 10, where summer fog and humidity live, it’s hard to expect that a fungal disease won’t rear its head, especially with roses. But the Knockout rose claims to be very resistant to black spot – and it seems to be, as only 1 in 12 planted so far has shown any sign of the disease on foliage. To be fair, air circulation where this particular Knockout was planted is problematic due to high buildings. Use common sense when planting a Knockout, it’s tough but not invincible!
After having planted 12 red Knockout roses in five different gardens, this is what I have to say – this rose is an amazing rose and performer. I particularly love the cherry red color, which adds pop and vibrancy. Since the Knockout rose is easy to use and easy to care for, it’s a great plant choice for a wide variety of situations as well as people who want ease and bang for their buck. Now, I need to move on and try another color.
What about you… Any thoughts or Knockout information to share? Love to hear!
Happy gardening,
ps: If you’re looking to give this rose a try (and I highly recommend you do) but you don’t have a nursery that offers a selection of Knockout Roses
, you can find a selection on Amazon.