Question 1: I planted knock out roses this year and they are doing beautifully. However, how do I take care of them in the winter? When do I cut them back? How far do you cut them back? Please advise.

Question 2: I am planning on planting encore azelas this spring. Please advise me the best sunlight, soil, watering, etc. to have success with these.

Question 3: When and how to you divide Iris?

Make sure shrubs are well hydrated before winter.  If there is not an inch of rain in a week and the ground is not frozen, water them deeply.  In early spring, remove any dead wood, any branches that are crossing or damaged or diseased.  If there are any branches that are not growing in an aesthetic fashion, cut them back to where the branch joins another branch.  If you want them shorter, branches can be cut back to where the branch joins another branch. 

All azaleas prefer shade and acid soil.  All plants need to be watered for three years until they are established.  If there is not an inch of rain in a week, water deeply.

Bearded Iris can be divided any time after they bloom until fall.  Dig up all the rhizomes, remove any portions that are damaged or mushy or diseased in any way.  The best portions to plant are shaped like a Y, but any rhizome fragment that is healthy can be planted.  The top of the rhizome should be right at the soil level or slightly above.  Japanese and Siberian iris can be divided any time, preferably in the fall or spring.  Drive a shovel through the mass of roots to divide and replant at the same depth that they were growing before.

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