Planting Directions for a Dwarf Burning Bush

Location

• An ideal location for the burning bush is one that receives full sunlight for at least six hours a day. Planting in full sunlight will bring out the fall coloring. If the dwarf burning bush is in a location with less sun or all shade, the red coloring will look dull and not brilliant.

Hole Size

• The planting hole should be as deep as the root ball and 2 to 3 inches wider than the root ball. Plant dwarf burning bushes at least 5 to 6 feet away from other bushes or plants to accommodate the spread when mature. It is important that the top of the root ball is even with the surface of the soil when planted.

Soil

• Dwarf burning bushes are adaptable to many soil conditions, but for heavy soils such as clay or sand, amend the soil removed from the hole with equal parts of compost and peat moss.

Planting

• Have someone slowly lower the burning bush into the hole, while another person gently spreads out the roots. While someone holds the tree upright, shovel the amended soil back into the hole and tamp down to remove air pockets.

Water

• Dwarf burning bushes need at least 1 to 2 gallons of water just after planting. Until the bush is established, it will need at least 1 inch of water each week. It can take two to three months for the bush to establish itself. Don't fertilize the bush until the following spring. Use a water-soluble shrub fertilizer every three months during the growing season.