Burning bush with a few dead spots - Ask Extension
I have four large burning bush plants along the side of my house. I believe they were planted 15 years ago. One of the bushes has three different sect...
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Burning bush with a few dead spots #931914
Asked May 16, 2026, 3:03 PM EDT
I have four large burning bush plants along the side of my house. I believe they were planted 15 years ago. One of the bushes has three different sections of dead branches. I can't see any insects or other signs of a cause. None of the other bushes nearby have dead branches. I would really appreciate your advice on how to treat those. Thank you!
Washtenaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
Thanks to your great photos, I could see a branch with a little webbing on it, which is a sign of spider mites. These tiny insects suck the sap from leaves and twigs and could lead to the stunted leaves and shriveled twigs you are seeing. Because you don't want to kill beneficial mites that might be in the area, you should try the least toxic approach first. Prune out the affected tips, then use a hard jet of water to dislodge any remaining insects. If you continue to see new damage, try the insecticidal soap next. Here is an article with additional information about spider mites: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/insects-pests-and-problems/insects/mites/spider-mites-outdoors
Thanks to your great photos, I could see a branch with a little webbing on it, which is a sign of spider mites. These tiny insects suck the sap from leaves and twigs and could lead to the stunted leaves and shriveled twigs you are seeing. Because you don't want to kill beneficial mites that might be in the area, you should try the least toxic approach first. Prune out the affected tips, then use a hard jet of water to dislodge any remaining insects. If you continue to see new damage, try the insecticidal soap next. Here is an article with additional information about spider mites: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/insects-pests-and-problems/insects/mites/spider-mites-outdoors
I appreciate your response! I will give that a try.
Thank you,
Melissa Lawrence
