Do I need to trim down or mulch my knockout rose bushes before winter?

This depends on what zone you live in, and the recent weather. Look in the front of your phone directory, and they should tell you., and also the state also, This info, will help us give you better info. Even here, in TN, we cut back the roses, pack them in leaves, and them put a pail, or cooler over them, with bricks on it, so the winds will not blow off the protection. Best wishes, J.

Here are some end of season recommendations. Knock out roses seem to thrive and get better year after year. Something to look forward to for those of us with short days and winter climate changes ahead.

Happy gardening!

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/winterize-knock-out-roses-48795.html

knockout rose bushes need no trimming

Mulch and trim in early spring

No. They are very resilient and low maintenance. I trim or pull off any dead in spring and I trim if they touch the house or send off an odd misshapen growth. The only time I ever lost one was when a plow guy plopped about 5 ft of packed snow on top of one. That may or may not have been why I lost it? That is why I love them. They flower all summer and require little maintenance.