Town Rallies Around Knockout Rose
November 21, 2007 The city of Madison, Ala., has made ‘Knockout Coral Red’ rose its signature plant, as part of its 150th birthday celebration.
This news was shared with us by Susan Parker, director of lawn and garden for the Alabama Farmers Coop. The Madison Beautification/Tree Board recently planted the roses around a gazebo to kick off the project during the Madison Street Festival.
“We felt that an initial planting on the Village Greens, just prior to the event, would provide residents the opportunity to see Madison’s signature plant up close, while enjoying the festival,” board president Shrail Heinrich told The Huntsville Times. “We are excited about the number of calls and emails received from residents after learning that Madison adopted a signature plant. The comments and questions range from ‘where can the rose be purchased locally?’ to ‘Will the board consider planting roses in my neighborhood park?'”
Numerous plantings are planned for next year. Heinrich hopes the plant will represent Madison the way azaleas do Mobile, Ala.
Madison also is a past participant in America In Bloom. Several towns have been successful rallying around a single plant, whether it’s petunias, marigolds, azaleas or roses. What a great way to focus and unify community plantings.
The deadline for cities to register for the 2008 America In Bloom competition is Feb. 28. We hope to see Madison return again as an entrant. For more information, visit www.americainbloom.org.
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