How to Plant & Care for Burning Bushes

A burning bush (Euonymus alata) is more than just a religious symbol; it is also a multi-purpose shrub that displays magnificent hues of red during the fall months. Planting a burning bush is a simple task that, if done right, can ensure long-term success of the plant. Burning bushes are also relatively easy to care for and require little seasonal maintenance.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Soil Amendments
• Fertilizer
• Pruning shears

Instructions

Planting a Burning Bush

1. Dig a hole that is twice as wide but just as deep as the current root structure of the plant. Ideally, the hole should give the burning bush's roots ample room to grow horizontally without burying the plant too deeply into the ground.

2. Add any soil amendments that might be necessary. Burning bushes prefers a moist, well-drained soil but are very adaptable.

3. Remove your burning bush from its pot and score the roots by lightly loosening the roots with your hands or with the tip of your shovel. If your burning bush is balled and wrapped in burlap, remove the wire cage and remove the burlap from the top of the burning bush root structure.

4. Set the burning bush in the hole and backfill the hole with soil. Do not place more than 1 inch of soil on top of the root structure. Planting the burning bush too deep can cause suffocation of the aerial roots and is a common planting error that can be easily avoided.

5. Lightly press the soil around the plant and water it. If you are using a starter fertilizer, apply that as directed.

Caring For a Burning Bush

1. Prune dead branches immediately following the blooms to encourage new growth. You can also shape a burning bush relatively easily using hedge clippers.

2. Water the burning bush on a regular schedule until it is established. Burning bushes are very drought-tolerant, so it is not necessary to continue watering after the bush is established.

3. Apply a fertilizer in the spring or fall to help the plant grow. Your local garden center can recommend the best fertilizer for your particular climate and situation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose to shape your burning bush, be aware that the leaves need light to grow. If you turn your burning bush into a perfect cube, the lower branches may suffer.

• Choose a sunny place to plant your burning bush to get the best fall color.

• Deer and rabbits can be a nuisance to burning bushes so be vigilant for any signs of animal damage and take corrective measures before the problem gets worse.

• Always locate underground utility lines before you dig.

References

• Burning Bush Plants and Shrubs
• Burning Bush Propogation and Care
• Burning Bush (Euonyoms Alata compacta)