Dwarf Winged Euonymus Is Thin And Leaves Are Browning And Falling Off

Question From: L. Nieno - Circle Pines, Minnesota, United States
Q: Hi Nancy, we are having trouble with our dwarf winged euonymus (burning bush) this year. It is only 2 years old and for some reason, this year it is quite thin with the leaves browning and falling off. Is this a soil issue (ours is sandy) or do we need fertilizer or mulch?? Any helpful hints would be GREATLY appreciated!

A: Lyrisa, It's probably a heat and water issue that started last summer. Mulching with a good organic mulch, tub ground yard waste or pine bark chips 3 inches deep, will help to feed the soil and thus feed the plant. In fall, feed the shrub with Espoma Plant or Holly Tone at the recommended rate. Do keep it well watered this summer, which means giving it a good soak once a week equal to an inch and a half of water if it does not rain. Use a rain guage to keep track of what Mother Nature provides. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy