Greenshooz Landscaping & Lawn Maintenance | Cumming, GA

In 2000, knockout roses became the best-selling plant in the country because of their ease of maintenance and continuous bloom. More than 250,000 bushes were sold that year. Although lacking in fragrance, they were the first “no-maintenance” rose ever introduced. However, the knockouts quickly became susceptible to mites which spread a virus known as Rose Rosette and were banned from further sales in many states. Because of their popularity, growers altered the plant genetics and have since brought newer knockouts varieties to the market: pink, rainbow, double, blushing and sunny. Some garden enthusiasts continue to love them and others shy away due to fear of another disease epidemic. If you’re a lover and are curious about what companion perennials to plant with your roses, here are some great ideas from HGTV Gardens!