PatArizona

G'day BaldGuy...

Try this...

Here is a rather Generic Process for Treating Root Rot.

• First, remove your bonsai from the pot, then try this:

• If the roots are black and smelly, it is undoubtedly root rot. If so,
• Rake out the roots with a root rake or a chop stick;
• Wash ALL of the old soil off your tree's roots, including all the black, rotten roots;
• Cut back on the black roots until you reach white cores;
• Discard the old soil and trimmings;
• Soak the root ball in a fungicide solution (follow directions on the label) for at least 10 minutes;
• Clean the pot using a fungicide or disinfectant (preferably both);
• Clean your tools and work area before continuing;
• Repot the bonsai in a fresh, fast draining soil…a coarse-grained soil like gravel and pine bark or pumice and pine bark (or even pumice with no organic component); and,
• Water thoroughly with a root stimulant solution (KLN, Roots2, Superthrive)...following directions on the label.

Aftercare:

Place your bonsai where it will be protected from the wind, but with as much filtered sun as possible; Monitor water content of the soil...let the soil almost dry out before watering (ie., if the soil is bone dry, water yesterday), and water only when water is needed.

For the next three weeks or so…EVERY TIME YOU WATER…water thoroughly using a root stimulant solution (KLN, Roots2, Superthrive)...following directions on the label (try ½ strength). Keep the bonsai in partial shade or indirect sunlight for at least 10-12 days…in 2-3 weeks you should know whether or not this was successful. Then gradually, across 3-4 days, reintroduce the bonsai to normal sun light.

Good luck...

Pat

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BONSAI isn't about surviving in a storm, rather, how to dance in the rain.
THE ONLY WAY: Always remember, and don't ever forget, that whatever you read here is not cast in concrete... the intent of any advice is to help. In no way should you feel that I’m saying that my way is the only way…heaven forbid! I've seen far too much of the "my way or the highway" attitude in bonsai as well as in other areas of life.