I think part of the problem was that it had almost completly dried out in the wind, making it much easier to dislodge. The roots are fine. I don't usually tie them into the pots so that i can lift them out every now and again to check their progress and assess the need for repotting etc.
Ok, ok, ok. I know i use some rather large leaved species, but in the 6 years i have been bonsaiificating this maple i have got to a point where the leaves are only 1inch across, compare to the 8+inches the full size trees have (really pleased about this). It's a very resiliant species. The leaves are as thin as A.Palmatum but it doesn't get scorched by the sun and in the past it has accidentally dried to a point where it appeared it wouldn't come back. A good soaking and a few hours later the leaves were good as new.
Roots2? I haven't heard of that product. it's not like the dreaded superthrive is it?
Al