Dying Bonsai :-(

[odette100]

Hello,

I am a new bonsai owner. I bought a Ixora and a Juniper. Unfortunately, I kind of neglected my "little pets" and they dried out. The Juniper is faring alright but I am afraid that the Ixora is barely alive. I watered them both and added fertilizer. Anyone have advice for me?

Thanks.

Comments

[sputnik]

Remember that scene in the beginning of the first Matrix movie where agent Smith is talking to the cop on the street...

[odette100]

No, I didn't see that movie.

[jutecat]

you should.
just the first one though, the last two arent worth it

[sputnik]

well...chances are good that your bonsai are already dead. You just don't know it yet.

Tip: Never fertilize a plant that is doing badly. Keep up with the watering until it perks up, then fertilize at half strength for a while.

Good luck. I hope I'm wrong.

[nulldevice]

Water 'em and hope for the best. I wouldn't fertilize now, since it's late in the seasons and you don't want the juniper growing new roots or foliage before you stash it for winter (unless you're using a low-nitrogen fertilizer).

Be aware that the juniper may actually be doing a lot worse than it looks. Evergreens stay green and healthy-looking long after damage has been done.

[odette100]

Thanks. How often should I water? Every day?

[nulldevice]

Daily. You shouldn't let the soil dry out.

Where are you storing this tree in the winter?

[odette100]

In my living room. They were never outdoors. I just bought them a few weeks ago.