Burning Bush With Heat Shock?

Q: Do burning bushes go dormant due to heat shock?

Hardiness zone: 7a

Dnujcar from Detroit, Michigan

A: Dnujcar,

It's possible, but highly improbable. These shrubs are slow growing, but they are rock solid and not usually susceptible to adverse environmental conditions. They also have very few pest problems, other than the occasional infestation of aphids. Burning bushes prefer moist, well-drained soil (slightly acidic) and full sun. However, they are also generally very adaptable to poor soil, alkaline soil, heat, drought, pollution, and shade. That said, how's your weather been?

If your bushes are dropping leaves, although rare, it could be the result of a sudden (and significant) transition from cool to hot weather-especially if your shrubs are still young. If up to this point your bushes have been otherwise healthy, keep them on a regular watering schedule and they should bounce back just fine. If enough leaves are lost, most trees and shrubs will throw out a new set in time.

Ellen