How to Winterize a Burning Bush

Protecting your burning bush during cold winters is crucial for its continued health in the spring months. A deciduous shrub that grows in USDA Hardiness zones 4 to 9, the burning bush is known for its showy, bright red leaves in the fall. During the winter, the bush can be damaged from ice, snow, winter sun and animals eating on the foliage. Taking necessary precautions by winterizing your burning bush against possible injury.

• 1

  Discontinue fertilizing the bush before late July to slow growth before it goes dormant. Fertilization will stimulate new growth.

• 2

  Water often during the growing season, decreasing in September but watering frequently in October, up to the first frost, recommends the University of Minnesota Extension.

• 3

  Apply 4 to 6 inches of mulch such as pine straw in October to keep soil temperatures high during the cold season.

• 4

  Prune any dead foliage to ward off insects or disease.

• 5

  Wrap a piece of burlap large enough to fit around the burning bush before the first frost. Tie twine around the burlap to hold it in place. Remove the burlap in spring after the last danger of frost.