Knockout Carpet Roses

I am a self-confessed rose snob.

For years, I turned my nose up at the trendy Knockout brand roses. Sure, they were fine for commercial landscaping. But in my garden? No way. I wanted big cabbage roses, old-fashioned English roses from David Austen that smelled divine.

And I do still love those roses. If I had a large sunny spot, I would fill a garden with them.

But I don't. Instead, I have some small landscaped beds where all the plants have to get along. I wanted all-year color and interest in the garden. So I succumbed.

And I am happy I did. These Peach Drift Knockout carpet roses have been so sweet. Constant color! And you know what? They have a sweet fragrance, too.

Can a rose be unpretentious and unassuming? If so, then this one fits the bill.

Folks will tell you that there's no need to deadhead these roses. But I have found that if I do, I will get a lot longer blooming time. It is not a quick job, but on a cool summer morning, I find it to be relaxing...pruning while the bees hum and the birds chirp and all is right with the world.

Blessings on your Friday, cafe friends!