The Story Behind Knock-Out Roses

Rose Breeder, Bill Radler, has revolutionized the way we think of roses. With the creation of The Knock Out® Rose, many say that he single-handedly brought rose genetics from the 20th Century into the 21st Century.

The Knock Out® Rose, Radler’s first commercial success and a 2000 AARS winner, has broken all records for sales of a new rose. Today The Knock Out® Rose is the most widely sold rose in North America.

The Knock Out® Family of Roses are easy to grow and do not require special care. They are the most disease resistant rose on the market. They have stunning flower power with a generous bloom cycle (about every 5-6 weeks) that will continue until the first hard frost. All of the Knock Out® Roses are self-cleaning so there is no need to deadhead.

The Knock Out® Family of Roses are winter hardy to USDA Zone 5 and heat tolerant throughout the entire U.S. They thrive in almost every area of the country. In the coldest regions, they will need winter protection.

If unpruned, The Knock Out® Family of Roses can easily grow to be more than 3-4′ wide x 3-4′ tall. Periodic trims will keep them maintained at a smaller size. A once a year cut (to about 12-18″ above the ground) in early spring (after the last hard frost) is also recommended for maximum performance.

The Knock Out® Family of Roses can fit into any landscape. Plant them individually among shrubs, annuals and perennials in mixed beds and borders. Plant them in large groups to create a colorful hedge. Plant them along a foundation to provide a bright border. Want some more ideas? Check out our Knock Out® Family photo gallery to get inspired.