Knockout roses are a popular and stunning addition to any garden or landscape. These hardy, low-maintenance beauties come in a variety of colors and are known for their continuous blooming and disease resistance. Growing knockout roses is relatively easy, even for novice gardeners. Here are four ways to grow these stunning flowers in your garden.

1. Choose the Right Location

The first step in growing knockout roses is selecting the perfect spot for planting. These roses thrive in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. When choosing a location, consider factors such as drainage, potential shade sources, and exposure to wind. A well-drained area with good air circulation helps prevent common rose afflictions like black spot and powdery mildew from taking hold.

2. Prepare the Soil

Knockout roses prefer soil that is fertile, well-drained, and slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5). Before planting, test your soil’s pH and make necessary adjustments to achieve the ideal range. You can add compost or other organic matter to improve soil quality if needed. In clay or heavy soils, try incorporating materials like gypsum or sand into the soil to improve drainage.

3. Plant and Water Properly

After preparing the soil, dig a hole that’s wide enough to accommodate the root system — generally about 18-24 inches in diameter — and deep enough so that the plant sits slightly above ground level when fully planted. Space your knockout roses about 3-4 feet apart to allow for ample airflow. After planting, water your roses thoroughly to settle the soil around their roots.

It’s crucial to maintain consistent moisture levels during the establishment period of your knockout roses. This means you should water every 2-3 days until the plant is well-established — usually around four weeks; after that, aim for deep watering once or twice a week during the growing season. Monitoring soil moisture to avoid over-watering or under-watering will ensure optimal growth.

4. Prune and Fertilize

Regular pruning helps maintain your knockout roses’ health and appearance by encouraging new growth, improving air circulation, and removing dead or damaged branches. The ideal time for pruning is early spring, just before the plant starts producing new growth. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and cut at a 45-degree angle about 1/4-inch above an outward-facing bud.

Fertilizing your knockout roses is another vital aspect of their care. It’s best to use a slow-release, all-purpose rose fertilizer that’s higher in phosphorus with the onset of new growth and continue every six weeks during the growing season. With proper care and maintenance, your knockout roses will thrive throughout the season and grace your garden with stunning blooms.

In conclusion, growing knockout roses is a rewarding endeavor that requires careful site selection, soil preparation, appropriate planting and watering techniques, and regular pruning and fertilization. By following these four methods, you can grow knockout roses that will be the envy of every gardener in your neighborhood.