Help my tree is sick.

BonsaiRSB

Hello. I believe my tree is sick and am concerned for it's survival! I am new to Bonsai and would GREATLY appreciate any information you could provide.

Thank You.

1. What kind of bonsai do you have and how long have you had it?
I have a Caitlin Elm, which is about 11 years old I think.

2. Where did you get it, and what was its condition at the time you acquired it?
New EnglandBonsai Gardens. It was in great shape (potted planter).

3. When did you notice the problem?
I have been taking miscolored leaves off the tree for about a week, however my bark is shriveling and feels as if I could peel it off?

4. How have you been watering it and how frequently?
In the winter every (2) days or so.

5. What region are you located geographically and where are you keeping your tree, indoors or out, full sun, part sun, shade?
Massachusetts. Indoor tree next to window. Around 65 - 70 degree temperature in partial sun with good air circulation.

6. Does the soil have any unpleasant odor?
No.

7. When was the tree last repotted?
February 17, 2007.

8. Is there any discoloration of the foliage? Would you describe it as turgid and green, dry and brown, wilting, mottled or partially eaten? If you brush the foliage with a fingertip, does it fall off?
Some leaves are starting to turn a partial brown and wilting. Some of the leaves do fall off.

9. Is there evidence of pests, like ants or aphids?
Not that I can see.

10. Can you post a picture of your tree to the forum?
I will try to post a picture tonight.

Advertisement

Hannah

I don't know about this kind if tree, but I do have a suggestion. Would you be able to take it to NE bonsai for them to have a look at. They'll likley be able to help you out much better cause they can see the tree in real life. Meanwhile, be aware that the tree might need less water than normal if it's lost a significant amount of leaves.

rockm

Best thing to do is ask someone at New England Bonsai Gardens about the problems. They cared for it before you and probably know its history.

Your problems, however, don't really sound like problems, but possibly the tree's reaction to being moved. Catlin elms, like all Chinese Elms (catlin is simply a variety of CHinese elm), have bark that exfoliates, that is, the older top layer can sometimes be shed in plates. The upper layer of bark is dead tissue and serves no circulatory function.

The dropping leaves can be from a number of things, overwatering, underwatering, the plant readjusting to lower light conditions, etc.