Knockout roses, while they are popular for their easy maintenance and ability to grow in various climates, do indeed have thorns. These thorns can be quite pronounced and can make pruning and handling the roses a bit painful if not done with caution. However, it is important to note that not all roses within the Knockout family have thorns. Some newer varieties have been bred to be thornless, offering a more user-friendly option for gardeners who prefer to avoid the prickly thorns.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across both thorny and thornless varieties of Knockout roses. The thorny ones tend to be the older varieties, while the newer introductions have been specifically bred to be thornless. This is certainly a welcome development for those who enjoy the beauty of Knockout roses but prefer a more pain-free gardening experience.
It is also worth mentioning that Knockout roses have a vigorous growth habit. While they are relatively compact compared to traditional rose bushes, they can still grow quite large each year. They can reach heights of up to 6 feet and have a similar spread, making them better suited for larger garden beds or areas where they have room to grow and spread out. It is important to consider their size when planning their placement in your garden to ensure they have enough space to thrive and showcase their beautiful blooms.
While Knockout roses are known for their easy care and maintenance, it is important to be aware that they do have thorns. However, newer thornless varieties are available for those who prefer a more pain-free gardening experience. Additionally, their size should be taken into consideration when planning their placement in your garden.
