Help! Prunus Mume Buds Not Opening

ddallier

I have a prunus mume (japanese flowering apricot) that is on its second flush of buds. None have opened yet! they just turn from their red color to brownish without opening. I tried a weak fertilizing of 0-10-10 early last week, but the buds appear to be dying again. It is a bit warm here (in the 70s and low 80s in the day), so i moved it to dappled light under a tree. What should I do?

thanks in advance

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TreeBay

It sounds like it's dying. Now to find out why maybe a little more info would be useful. See what you can provide:

This is a very common question. We are happy to help with specific inquiries about your bonsai but we need some information to do it.

2. Where did you get it, and what was its condition at the time you acquired it?

3. When did you notice the problem?

4. How have you been watering it and how frequently?

5. What region are you located geographically and where are you keeping your tree, indoors or out, full sun, part sun, shade?

6. Does the soil have any unpleasant odor?

7. When was the tree last repotted?

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?

9. Is there evidence of pests, like ants or aphids?

10. Can you post a picture of your tree to the forum?

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Tony

The first thing I'd do is check the condition of the roots. As Matt says though, it could be numerous problems or a combination of them.

Tony

ddallier

I have checked the roots and they look fine. I have been watering using the chopstick method to check for dryness. I see no sign of insect infestation. There are no leaves on the tree right now. There are a few buds that are still reddish. What should I do?