Need Help pls

[Miekhst]

Hi all,

Someone got me this as a present and I have no clue what kind it is or how to take care of it, and I'm concerned cuz I think the leaves are starting to wither.

Appreciate any help identifying it.

Thanks

[img]https://i1068.photobucket.com/albums/u450/Miekhst/Bonsai.jpg[/img]

[tomc]

An awful lot of the soil looks to be washed out of root ball. I wonder if the pot isn't too shallow.

[Gnome]

Miekhst,

looks like it might be a Boxwood. Heed Tom's warning, the roots should not be that exposed.

Norm

[WildcatNurseryman]

I agree that it appears to be a boxwood. Detailed veiws of the leaf may help. Bonsi are traditionally grown with less soil than usual in order to artificially dwarf the plant. In consequence the soil dries out more quickly and the plant requires more frequent watering. In addition to the lack of soil, drying winds could be a problem. It appears from the photo that it is very exposed, as second floor balconies tend to catch breezes. Packing soil in the roots and a layer of moss/mulch will help greatly. Don't let it ever completely dry out or it will be more difficult to water as well. Bonsi are like children- they both require a lot of care and time, but can be very rewarding...and heart-breaking.

[TomM]

Hey Wildcat - glad to see (hear?) that the storms in your area have not gotten you! Hunker down.

Miekhst - I agree with all of the above. Your tree needs more bonsai soil around the roots although it appears healthy otherwise. Some thinning, wiring, styling might improve the overall design at some point. Do some reading within our forum library and please stay in touch. We like to know how our visitors are progressing. Also let us know where you live. This tell us the climate/weather information needed for good advice.

IMPORTANT - learn all about proper watering. All trees need it.

[WildcatNurseryman]

Thanks Tom. It was rough in a lot of places, but Lexington just got a "normal" storm. Others were not so lucky. Thanks again.