Knockout roses care have become a landscaping favorite across the nation because of their ease of care, long season of bloom and resistance to disease. These resilient plants are not carefree, however, and need regular watering, fertilizer and pruning to perform at their best.

Like any other perennial or shrub, it is important to plant your knockout roses in well-draining soil with a pH level around 6.5. If planting in the ground, dig a hole deeper and wider than the container your rose came in; this allows the roots to stretch out more easily for nourishment. A layer of peat moss and organic compost added to the hole also helps with moisture retention. If planting in containers, use bagged potting soil.

Blooming Beauties: A Comprehensive Guide to Knockout Roses Care

After planting, water your new rose thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage new root growth. As the summer progresses, water deeply and more frequently to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Avoid overhead watering, which may promote diseases like black spot. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer such as Espoma Organic Rose Tone or BioAdvanced Rose & Flower Fertilizer, which provides nutrients throughout the growing season.

In the fall, or early spring for bare-root planting, mulch your garden with 3-4 inches of shredded leaves, wood chips or straw to help stabilize soil temperature and retain moisture. When the temperatures begin to drop, cover your rose with 2-3 inches of burlap or plastic to protect it from frost and snow.