Sick Gardenia

[ladybugpeace]

Hi, all

Well My husband got me this tree, and I love it. Unfortunalty I don't have a green thumb...I got it in Oct, and I was doing really well with it. Then we moved from TX to NY. She made the trip great, but now she seems a little sick. I've been soaking the tree for about 20 min once a week (as per the insturctions when I recieved her). But lately her leaves are tunring yellow and falling off. Is this normal? I'm worried that the temp difference is getting to her. Have no idea where it is best to put her, cause if i get her too close to the window it is really cold. Also, the dirt on the top is starting to get a fine layer of white fuzz, should I repot her? And if so what type of soil do I use? Sorry that was a lot of questions, but any help is greatly appreciated! Thnks

[Rachel]

Hey Ladybug,

Welcome to the Bonsaitrees Forum. This is probably the best place to come in order to save your tree. We are a bunch of regular people, and we will give you the best advice we know to take care of your tree.

First things first.
A lot of your problems could be caused by the change of climate. It could be that your tree just needs to adjust to it's new surroundings. Bonsai's tend to be a little sensitive to changes in their environment. Also It could be that you are overwatering. In the colder climate the tree may not be useing as much water as is evidenced by the yellowing leaves. Cut back on your watering only water your tree when it needs it. Watering your tree by submersing the roots is not generally recommended. I hear you now " that is what I was told to do" That is the advise generally given, by stores and other places when you buy a Bonsai, but it is not neccesarily the best. It is better to water your tree from the top with a spray. ( I put mine right in the kitchen sink and use the dish sprayer.) Test your soil before you water, by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If the soil feels dry water, if the soil is damp leave it as it is. Another method is to put a stick (a chopstick from your local chinese restaurant is perfect for this or you can make one .) into the soil and let is sit there for about ten minutes, when you take it out If it is dry water your plant, if it is damp then wait. Check your tree daily with either one or both of these methods.

Also How is the light situation. Is your tree getting enough light. If your tree was getting more light in Texas then it is in NY, then it may not be getting enough in NY. I advise you to set up some sort of supplimental lighting system. Using Florescent bulbs , or a full spectrum bulb ( you can get one in any aquarium, or garden shop) of about 40 watts set up a lamp about 4-6 inches above your tree. Keep this lamp on for a minimum of 14 - 16 hrs a day. An electric timer may hepl if you tend to forget to turn it on .

According to my book the optimal winter temp for Gardenia is between 54 and 59 degrees F. but temperatures to 68 are well tolerated. Keep your tree away from heating vents and radiators as they will dry out the leaves.

Good Luck ,

Rachel<br><br>Post edited by: Rachel, at: 2009/02/12 19:37

[ladybugpeace]

ty so much for your help...but what about the white fuzz on the soil?

[Rachel]

A picture would help to determine more about the whte fuzz, Which could be caused by any number of things from mold to insect pests. If you can post a picture I/m sure someone will be able to advise you. But in the meantime does it look anything like this. ( See Attachment)

Post edited by: Rachel, at: 2009/02/15 22:13<br><br>Post edited by: Rachel, at: 2009/02/15 22:17

[Rachel]

Does the fuzz look anything like this?

[strelnikov1]

The white fuzz is mold, I would quit with soaking once a week and just water as per needed.

[mikey012076]

Yes the mold will go away by it's self when you start watering it the way it needs to be watered, you will be looking to water your tree about every 3 to 5 days, test the soil before watering..

Mike....:O)