Unhappy Bonsai?

Conexion

Hello there!

Alright, so I have always wanted a Bonsai and so the other day I decided to go and buy a bonsai from a local grower. I ended up buying a Japanese Juniper. He told me some of the basics (Water when needed, test with a toothpick or something to see if the soil sticks, repot it in a year or so, Keep in indirect sunlight) But I still have a few questions, and am also wondering if it is showing signs of, well, death.

1) He said it is about 4-5 years old. Is this true? (And is it for sure a Japanese Juniper?)



2) He said that they like outdoor weather, so if you want to keep it inside, keeping it by an open window would work best. True?


3) He never really talked too much about the winter time. I've heard that they need to be outside during that time... but where should it go? I have dogs so the back yard isn't an option... and I don't want somebody to steal it out front.


4) Is my tree showing signs of death? The leaves aren't brittle at all, but toward the inside on some of the branches, they are turning yellow, and I don't think that is a good sign. I'm hoping I'm catching this early enough to make sure it doesn't turn into anything big. Here is a picture:




If there is anything else I should know that is important about Japanese Junipers in particular, please let me know! This has been very enjoyable and relaxing so far and I want to make the most out of this one so maybe I can raise more in the future.


Thanks a bunch!
Conexion


p.s. Now that I think about it... this may not belong here %100... but I am worried about if it is dying or showing signs of dying. So if this isn't the right place, could a mod please move it? Thanks!

edit: I put maple, I ment Juniper!

edit 2: I paid $20 for this... is that a fair price?

Advertisement

Mcspeed

1) Age is , could be 4-5 yeaars old.

2 & 3) No No No and NO, this goes outside or dies, now too not just for the winter.

4) Looks like a combo of not enough sunlight, and maybe over watering, you soil doesn't look what we would recommend for this. The yellowing could just be the branch and needles getting older as well.

Cruise through the beginner section and look for threads on junipers ( could be Chinese, or Procumbens nana) soils, watering , you can go thru the articles section too, lots of good reading about bonsai.

Watering in a small pot for a tree that does not like to have consistantly wet roots, needs to be done on a as needed basis, especially when the soil holds moisture rather than a free draining soil typically used for bonsai.

Lots to learn about these little guys, or you end up like most of us and kill your firt tree.

Fill out the section about your area, on the user cp so we have info on your area helps us give you better info, also check around to see if there is a club in your area, locals are your best source of info you can get, also once you get addicted, you will find a local club invaluable.

Another thing if they told you to soak the whole pot when you water - skip that advise and water as any other plant, just only as needed, wet roots will kill a juniper and it will be month or so before you realize it.

__________________
If at first you don't succeed -- skydiving is not for you.


Always remember that you're unique -- just like everyone else

Enjoy this day.
Bill

ElGringo

Welcome to bonsai! Yup, soil looks a little wet, it looks like ordinary potting compost which can retain water a little too much for bonsai. $20, thats about £10 or 15 Euros, it doesn't appear to be very old or styled to any degree though, however I have seen worse for more money. Did it come with the frog? Nice touch! :p

Best of luck with it, and may you collect many more in the future.

__________________
Richard


If I was a lady, would I be 'LaGringa'?

Conexion

I added that and the rocks Thanks!

Added the section about my area And I know not to submerge the whole plant in water I'll see if there are any local clubs!

Thank you!