Do deer eat this shrub?
They won't typically eat these shrubs, however nothing is guaranteed with deer. They will often surprise you and eat things they aren't supposed to.
Here is an article with ways on preventing deer problems: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/deer/deer-repellents.htm
I've had a Rose of Sharon for years and this year it has developed some type of white fungus looking stuff all over the branches and leaves. What would that be and how can I get rid of it.
This is likely Powdery Mildew.
Here is an article with more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/get-the-cure-for-powdery-mildew.htm
I live in Colorado and the Rose of Sharon had flowers for 2 months. The flower buds grew about 3 weeks ago and never opened. It's close to freezing, and do I cut the buds off or what should I do to my bush? The leaves have started to turn.
In this case, I would wait until they die off. They will probably not open fully, as it is getting colder. This will not hurt them, though. It will encourage more blooming next year. Here is n article for more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/hibiscus/tips-for-pruning-hibiscus-plants-when-to-prune-hibiscus.htm
How long does a rose of Sharon live?
In zones 5-8, rose of sharon lives for decades. There are some in my neighborhood that are 25 years old and going strong. As with all flowering shrubs, it should be pruned annually to stay most productive. Remove 1/4 to 1/3 of the oldest stems yearly after they have grown to mature size.
It's November & our rose of sharon shrub has a lot of pods on it. Do I need to pluck them off? I'm not aiming to prune any limbs - I'd like it to grow more. thanks, Don
Yes. you can pluck these and keep the seeds for planting later. You wouldn't prune right now anyways. This should be done in spring. This will, in fact, force the shrub to grow back more vigorous. This article will give you more information on the care of this shrub: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rose-of-sharon/rose-of-sharon-bush.htm
when is the best time for me to prune back my sharon rose bushes
Many gardeners prune rose of sharon in late winter/early spring, before it leafs out. Remove a few of the oldest stems to the ground. This results in more shoots emerging from the shrub base. These young branches bloom more than old wood.
Two of my rose of sharon are dying out right in the middle of the tree/bush. What can I do?
This sounds like it could be a fungal infection. I would put wettable sulfur around the soil zone, and water with a 1 part peroxide to 3 parts water in a gallon around the roots. This will help kill off the infection.