Serissa Japonica help -

folkmeister · White Belt Joined: 26 Apr 2005 Posts: 1

I have had this little Serissa for 2 years and its been quite happy in my humid bathroom with indirect light. In the summers, I have put it outside in indirect sun and it has also thrived. I have never experienced the major "leaf drop" that seems to plague this species -- until now !

A few weeks ago the leaves quickly turned brownish / black and fell off. I had been following the same watering routine as the past.

The only thing I can think of is maybe its time to re-pot. There are starting to be some small roots visible at the base of the trunk, and several of the bigger roots seem to be pushing themselves up into woody 'knobs' at the base.

Is it too late to save this one ? I have ordered some bonsai soil which should arrive shortly. I'd prefer to trim the roots and keep it in the same pot. Any guidance on how much of the roots I should trim off ?

Thank you.

Moldy · Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 9:07 pm Post subject: Re: Serissa Japonica help -

I bought a Serissa a few weeks ago from a garden centre, and also noticed roots coming up through the soil. So have bought some soil and intend to repot in the coming week. I'm intending to take about a third of the roots off.

But would needing a repot cause a major leaf drop? It doesn't seem possible? Perhaps it is a disease?

Mine seems quite happy in its sunny location with daily misting. But I am also conscious of its notorious temprement!!!

Dick · Posted: Tue Apr 26, 2005 10:10 pm Post subject: Re: Serissa Japonica help -

Keeping the roots moist at all tines is absolutely essential with serissa. They do not like to dry out and will rebel a great deal. Howver, they also need some air circulation so as not to have the foliage damp off. Good light is essential to keep the foliage growth in check and healthy.

Check the A-Z forum on Serissa for more infomation.