jloeschner

First off, let me say that I am fairly new to bonsai, as well, so please base my advice on that. Second, I am NOT new to taking care of plants, in general, sooo...anyway, if the tree is dying in its present state, I would think that any effort would be better than none. Based on my experience, slip potting could help your tree. I slip potted my chinese elm in August because it, too, was overly rootbound. It never missed a step, and is doing great. I would think that as long as you do NOT trim any roots, it will be ok to plant it into a larger pot, which would give it more growing room. Also be sure to use a good, free-draining soil that will allow the roots to get plenty of water without holding so much water that the roots rot. Chinese elms are very hardy trees and can take a lot of abuse, so slip potting should do it wonders.

If you do trim the roots, you must take care that the tree doesn't get too cold this winter. I have been told that these trees can be kept indoors, but special care has to be taken when doing so. You might research that option if you choose to trim the roots...just my opinion.

Regards,
John

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