balding chinese elm

marmoset · Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 3:42 pm Post subject: balding chinese elm

Hi

I'm completely new to bonsai & in a blind panic.

I was given a lovely, healthy looking Chinese elm about a month ago, but after a few days it had a couple of yellow leaves. I moved it to a lighter position (about 2 feet in from a large window), but the yellow leaves kept on coming. I changed to watering from above rather than sitting it in a tray of water, but still more yellow leaves. I carried on misting it, I sprayed it with foliar feed, even more yellow leaves. It's producing new growth, but now the yellowing is accelerating and it's probably lost a third to half its leaves.

Help! I'm really fond of my little tree and I don't know what to do next.

Thanks for any help,

Victoria

Dick · Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 3:53 pm Post subject: Re: balding chinese elm

I think the problem at this point is the amount of light it's getting. The chinese elm is an outdoor tree and probably can ge grown outdoors year round in the UK. It will need more water (daily watering) because of evaporation once it's outdoors, but that's not too difficult to accomplish.

So place it outdoors, water it daily, place it in a location that has protection from mid-day sun and it should rejuvenate nicely.

Then be sure to do some reading about bonsai care, and especially about Chinese elms to familiarize yourself with your tree. This is aa very important part of bonsai cultivation. The A-Z section of this forum (for registered members which is highly recommended) has a very good entry on Chinese elms and other elms and trees.

Good luck and come back with any questions that you have.

marmoset · Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 4:32 pm Post subject: balding chinese elm

Thanks for the advice. Do I have to introduce it to the outdoors gradually or can i put it straight out?

John P · Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 5:41 pm Post subject: Re: balding chinese elm

Pop it straight out there in a place that matches Dick's description. I'm sure that all will be fine.
Good luck Victoria
Best regards.
John

Stymie · Posted: Wed Jul 20, 2005 11:01 pm Post subject: Re: balding chinese elm

We don't know whereabouts you are Victoria, there being no clue in your profile. The only clue is the UK flag. I'm in South Yorkshire and my Chinese elms are outside all year, for which they are robust and happy.
It is certainly okay to put yours out right away because of the temperatures we are getting lately. Out of midday sun if you can until it revives. Cut out any feeding until complete recovery is observed for at least a month and then only resume feeding at half recommended strength no more frequently than twice a month. Meanwhile, ensure that the planting medium is kept moist at all times, not wet. You'll be alright, keep in touch and let us know of any changes.

marmoset · Posted: Fri Jul 22, 2005 12:15 pm Post subject: balding chinese elm

Thanks everybody. The tree is now outside (in West Yorkshire), I'm following your advice and I've got everything crossed.

Thanks again,

Victoria

DMicheleR · Posted: Tue Jul 26, 2005 1:29 pm Post subject: Re: balding chinese elm

Hi Victoria,
How is your tree faring now that it is outside?