Plant Information:
Common Name:
Double Knock Out Rose, Pink Double Knock Out Rose
Botanical Name:
Rosa Radrazz
Plant Family:
Rosaceae
Bloom Period:
Spring through fall
Seasonal Color:
Cherry Red or Pink
Mature Height x Spread:
3×4 ft
A gorgeous and adaptable variety of rose, the Double Knock Out Rose is becoming more and more common in garden and landscape designs. Rich in bright double-petaled blooms in either cherry red or pink, these disease-resistant shrubs are robust and feature deep purple green leaves. They also typically have a wonderful, subtle smell. The remarkable ability of these roses to blossom is what makes them so unique. They will produce beautifully for months on end as they bloom over and time again from spring to October. Additionally, because of their compact rounded shape, they are excellent choices for foundation plantings and borders.
Planting Double Knock Out Roses in Central Texas
When to plant: They can be planted year round but it’s best to plant double knockouts after the last frost, in early spring, or late fall so they have more time to establish their roots before the summer heat kicks in. If planted in summer, they’ll need more water to help become established.
Where to plant: You’ll want to plant double knock outs in a place that receives 6 to 8 hours of sun per day for maximum blooms. They can tolerate some shade but they perform best in full sun. Their mature size is 3-4 ft wide so you’ll want to keep that in mind when planting them.
How to plant: Dig a hole two times the width of the pot the plant comes in and deep enough so the top roots are visible above the soil line. They need well-draining soil so you may need to work in 4-6″ of compost in clay soil, or create a raised bed at least 12″ deep by 24″ wide. Add 2-3″ of mulch around the rose after planting avoiding the roots, and deeply water avoiding the leaves. They can also be planted in large containers that are 2 sizes larger than the pot it comes in when purchased.
Caring for Double Knock Out Roses in Central Texas
These roses are relatively low care compared to other rose varieties. They require periodic trimming to retain shape and to encourage new growth, periodic watering, and a little fertilizer.
How to water: For the first two years, they should be watered about once or twice a week in the spring and summer. In the winter, they only need to be watered once a month. Once established, they should be watered every two to four weeks in the summer, and every four to six weeks in the wintertime. If planted in a container, they should be watered every 2 to 3 days because the soil will dry out quicker.
How to prune: They should be trimmed yearly in late winter/early spring when new shoots start growing. To maintain a 3ft rose bush they can be trimmed down to 12 inches. Otherwise, prune as needed to allow airflow in between branches to help promote health.
How to fertilize: To encourage an abundance of blooms, double knockout roses should be fertilized in the spring after the first wave of flowering. Be sure to water before to help prevent burning the roots, and avoid fertilizing in the summer.