New to this - need advice

atif · White Belt Joined: 04 Jan 2007 Posts: 2 Location: London

Hi there - I'm hoping someone can help me out here. I've always wanted to own and look after bonsai tree as i find them extremely calming and inspirational. I've recently purchased (according to the label) a 'serissa seroides'. I was told by the sales assistant to simply keep the soil moist but i was hoping to have a rough idea of how much water to give it and how often. Its about 9inches tall in an approx 7inch by 3.5inch pot with some sort of tray underneath. I keep it in my room a few feet away from the window.
Any advice would be much appreciated as I am new to this.

thanks in advance.

lance111 · Posted: Thu Jan 04, 2007 1:26 am Post subject: Re: New to this - need advice

Hi and welcome.. Very Happy

The Serrisa is a very very fusy tree, they don;t take kindly to being moved around, so once you have found the best location for it, leave it where it is..

They require good lighting and stable heating (not droping below 12c) mist with fresh water morning and night (to keep humidty conditions right for them) You can use the tray (that the dealer told you about) that will also give good humidty..
place some grit like stuff on the tray and add a bit of water (But make sure the water doesn't reach the holes at the bottom or the soil could absorb it and cause root rot)!!!

Water from above (don't use the submersion method) water to fill the soil and you will see the soil absorbing itand then drain out through the holes of the bottom (within 20 secs aprox)

To check to see if it needs watering, stick your finger into the soil gently and feel for moistness (if its moist) leave it till the next day, then check again, you'll get to know when she needs watering...

If you feel it dry or not so moist! water straight away...
hope this helps, Lance. Smile

Dick · Posted: Thu Jan 04, 2007 4:48 am Post subject: Re: New to this - need advice

Hi atif,

If you'll look at the menu for this forum, you'll see at the top of the "Talk Bonsai" list a specific message that deals with serissas. It should address what you are asking. And if you have other questions beyond that message, come here and ask away.

atif · White Belt Joined: 04 Jan 2007 Posts: 2 Location: London

Thanks for that will give you guys a shout if i get into any trouble