Knock Out Roses for Mold & Mildew

Growing roses can be really challenging. It often seems the gardener, especially in damp climates, is always combating mold and mildew. It's a good idea to look for roses that are resistant to fungal diseases. One of the best, 'Knock Out,' is a versatile garden rose.

Description

• The Knock Out rose, introduced in 2000, possesses excellent resistance to diseases such as black spot, powdery mildew and rust. This shrub rose grows about 4 feet tall and bears flowers in various shades of red and fuchsia.

Uses

• Use Knock Out as a specimen in a perennial border or as a foundation plant. Shrubs can be planted about 3 feet apart to form a loose, colorful hedge along fences or sidewalks.

Care

• Knock Out requires the same fertilizer and watering as other roses. Keep the bush trimmed of spent blooms and crossing branches. This encourages reblooming and improves air circulation, which discourages mold and mildew.