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Originally Posted by 007
Now I'm concerned about the elm I just got . . . insepction of some of the surface roots definitely showed a few roots that end just under the soil line and rotting. I pruned those off.
However there is one large root coming off one side that I don't know how far it goes under the soil, but when I push on it, water comes out like a sponge.
I just got this tree last week and slip-potted it into some free draining soil, but I left the original soil (which was not bonsai soil) there and undisturbed. I don't want to lose this tree! What are some opinions on a re-pot right? This tree is going to be kept in cold room where i have been told it will be right around 45F all winter.
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Hi 007
Yup I remember your thread on the seiju. Nice stock.
With regard to re-repotting, that's quite a tough call to make without knowing exactly what the situation is. Obviously, you don't want to keep disturbing the roots of a tree. On the other hand, you don't want rot spreading unabated for another 5-6 months before a scheduled Spring repot. The action I took above was based on the observations I'd made on the root system and I made a reasoned judgement call. As it was only dead material being pruned off, I essentially performed a soil transplant. Chinese elms being tough little SOB's, my equivalent USDA zone and the abundance of healthy root mass I'm not expecting any problems with the tree but, only time will tell.
The "Sponge" root does not sound good. Many of mine were like that. A couple were complete mush and I am glad that I decided to inspect the roots and remove the dead material and soil responsible (mainly the clay).
Essentially, without an inspection, you are going to be unable to say which is the best course of action to take. The rot may be isolated to a small area, in which case it would probably be ok to leave it as is until Spring 2006. By moderating the watering, the rot could be dramatically slowed down.
It could also be fairly widespread, with a ball of clay or equally compressed, soaked soil in the heart of the root mass providing the ideal conditions for the fungus to to thrive.
If it were mine, I would do a thorough inspection on the root system and then make a decision as to what course of action is best. If you are a member of a club, it might be an idea to take it along to get the advice of some experienced mentors. It might also be an idea to start a thread on your tree specifically, with some detailed photos and information, to see what other people think.
All the best,
Aaron