cutting roots on Butterfly Bush

Question

I am removing a flower garden and putting in grass but leaving the Butterfly shrub. When I lifted the mulch and weed barrier there are roots exposed and running quite a distance. Will it hurt the bush if I cut or damage the roots?

Answer 1

There is a very good chance that pruning the roots could damage or kill the plant.
I would recommend covering the exposed roots with 3 to 4 inches of soil and compost.