Burning bush loosing leaves - Ask Extension
We have two burning bushes that are about 5 years old. In the last week, their leaves have developed white spots, wilted, and fallen off. They have lo...
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Burning bush loosing leaves #570918
Asked June 16, 2019, 6:45 PM EDT
We have two burning bushes that are about 5 years old. In the last week, their leaves have developed white spots, wilted, and fallen off. They have lost 1/3-1/2 of their leaves. What might be causing this and how can we treat it?
McLeod County Minnesota
Expert Response
My best guess would be two-spotted spider mite. I most definitely see webbing in your second photo. Read here:
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/spider-mites
It is also possible more than one thing is going on. Besides the spider mites, the leaves on the plant look chlorotic, which is sometimes an indication of a soil issue. Read here about getting a soil test:
http://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden
I should also add that Euonymus alatus is invasive in Minnesota. Birds spread the seed into wild areas, and it then grows into a thick mat, choking out native plants. If you can't resolve the issues with your plants, please consider replacing them with something else. Read here:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/shrub/winged-burning-bush
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/spider-mites
It is also possible more than one thing is going on. Besides the spider mites, the leaves on the plant look chlorotic, which is sometimes an indication of a soil issue. Read here about getting a soil test:
http://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden
I should also add that Euonymus alatus is invasive in Minnesota. Birds spread the seed into wild areas, and it then grows into a thick mat, choking out native plants. If you can't resolve the issues with your plants, please consider replacing them with something else. Read here:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/shrub/winged-burning-bush
