Care, Pruning, and Diseases of Burning Bushes

Soil Requirements

• Burning bushes require good soil to grow properly. Begin by tilling the ground 10 or more inches deep and adding 5 or more inches of organic matter such as compost, fertilizer or manure to the soil. The burning bush thrives in moist, well-drained, alkaline soil. Alkaline soil has a pH range of 7.0 or greater, so use a pH test kit to check the soil before planting. Plant your shrub in a sunny spot within your garden and don't plant other shrubs too close, otherwise your garden can get too crowded.

Pruning

• The Burning Bush shrub needs pruning at least once or twice per year to prevent overgrowth. This plant can reach heights of up to 12 feet, so you must prune it, unless you want a giant shrub taking over your yard. Remove branches and shrubs that rub too close together. Cut off excess leaves or diseased leaves with pruning shears continually throughout the year or designate time in the spring and fall to prune your shrub.

Watering

• All shrubs need water to survive, but the burning bush doesn't need extra water when snow or rainfall is adequate. Only water your shrubs in the spring or early summer when the soil becomes too dry. Place the hose near the roots and water the ground around the plant until the soil becomes saturated. Do this again when the soil becomes dry. Watering may become more frequent in the summer if you live a dry state.

Diseases

• The burning bush can attract some pests such as spider mites and other pests. Spider mites in particular like to suck the sap from the leaves. These critters can make the plant more vulnerable to diseases. Burning bush can develop a white powdery mildew on its leaves, stems and bark. If you see this, cut off the diseased leaves and branches immediately.