In some yards, that's the only kind of "rose" that will grow. I personally don't like them, but I like the fact that they're so readily available. Why? Because if a person new to roses can grow a Knockout, then they're more willing to try other roses.. which will then create a demand for other non-knockout roses. The demand will then cause the other roses to be come more populous & cheaper, which is better for the rest of us non-Knockout people. I see them as the betta or the goldfish of the rose world. If someone can keep a knockout alive, then try different roses. But what I don't get is why on earth are they so EXPENSIVE??? 2gal Knockout - $18. 2gal non-Knockout - $10. WTH?