Question
I have a winged euonymous burning bush, about 8 years old.
It seems healthy but doesn't turn red in the fall: just a little tinge
on some leaves.  It's in a fairly shady spot but not entirely
shaded. A friend said it may be the soil.  My soil is very sandy,
fairly un-rich soil. Any advice?  Is it possible I bought a winged
euonymous that is not burning bush variety? In every other
respect it seems to look like the burning bush type.

Thanks  

Answer
Wendy,

It does not turn red because of the shade situation.  Burning bush need to be in full sun for the development of the good fall color.  Altering the soil, adding fertilizer, or any other treatment will not change the light situation.  If you want this plant to live up to its fall potential you need to prune the trees above to get more light to the plant or move the plant out into the light.

Good luck

Gary