Dick my elm !!!

bonsi-1973 · Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2008 2:14 pm Post subject: Dick my elm !!!

http://s305.photobucket.com/albums/nn206/dbradley1973/

Hi Dick,
I don't Know if you will remember me, I have the problem with the Chinese elm and you asked me to get some photos of it. I want to shape the tree so all the branches flow over to the right, is this possible. I also want to know where is the best place to take cuttings from.
Thank-you very much Darren.........

Dick · Posted: Wed Apr 30, 2008 4:53 am Post subject: Re: Dick my elm !!!

Sorry I didn't get back sooner, but I was having a little trouble with my eye that required laser treatments and I need to rest it for a while.

You elm ought to be outdoors in a place that gets morning and late afetrnoon sunlight. Too much full sun will not be good for it if you want it for cuttings.

I think that you ought to concentrate on getting the tree to have the traditional looking "clouds' of foliage before worrying about cuttings. And when you take cuttings, you need to have then cut where the new green stem and woody stem meet. The strip off most of the leaves except for 2 or 3 at the very top, dip the end in rooting hormone powder or gel and plant them. Try to keep the humidity high, perhaps using a clear plastic bag over them. And leave them alone for about a month. Then lightly check to see if they have developed roots and repot them in their own pots.

bonsi-1973 · Posted: Thu May 01, 2008 12:17 pm Post subject: Dick reply

I hope your laser treatment worked well. When you say lightly look at the roots, basically do you mean digging from the pot. And if so what is the best soil to use and do i put it in to a bonsai pot.

The reason i ask is while you were having your laser treatment I have got 5 cuttings and 4 look well.
Thanks alot Dick
Darren