How to Plant a Burning Bush Tree

The burning bush is an invasive shrub that grows well in any soil.

The burning bush (Euonymus alatus) is native to Asia but grows well from the New England states to the Gulf Coast. This plant can become invasive, spreading easily with its easily shed seeds. The roots of the burning bush can be used for medicinal purposes, while the color of its autumn leaves make it a popular choice for hedgerows. The burning bush grows well in full sun to full shade and in poor soil types. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of environments.

Things You'll Need

• Spade shovel
• Potting soil
• Mulch

Instructions

1. Check local laws that prohibit the sale and planting of the burning bush. Its highly invasive nature has made it a prohibited plant in some New England states.

2. Choose a location in full sun with an acidic soil base for planting. Dig a hole with a spade shovel the depth of the root ball on the plant and 1 1/2 times the width of the root ball.

3. Place the bush into the hole and fill the hole with 3 inches of potting soil. Backfill the remaining removed dirt, making a mound around the base of the trunk.

4. Firm the soil around the plant, maintaining the mound around the trunk.

5. Spread mulch around the base of the burning bush, ensuring the mulch does not come in contact with the trunk of the bush. Water the area thoroughly until the soil is moist but not soggy.

6. Water daily for 4 weeks until the roots have established.

References

• Ohio State University Extension: Euonymus alatus
• Invasive Plant Atlas of New England: Burning Bush
• Bellarmine University: Burning Bush