I recently adopted a semi-cascade suffering pine bonsai (from a work mate who has gone overseas). The leaves had started going yellow by the time I got it - which I understand to be usually from one of three causes: root bound, bad soil or over-watering. My mate said he'd neglected it somewhat in the last few weeks so I assumed it was not over watered.
I'm hoping to get some help and advice ... story as follows:
I've had a picea bonsai for a few years but never had to re-pot it, always take it in each year. Feeling confident as I've seen it done a few times, and with the help of the internet, thought I'd try repotting this semi-cascade to kick start its recovery.
I started by trimming all the obviously yellow branches. Then removed it from its pot and "racked" away the sandy soil. Then trimmed about a third of the roots, mainly the smaller really thin ones.
Using soil I've had since last year, I re-potted the newly pruned tree (branched and roots). Not sure if this soil has gone "off" ... it was quite dry and I wonder if it has lost its nutreints?
I watered it well after repotting, and have given it a few drinks during the week, as we've had some un-seasonally hot days.
One week on and I'm not sure I've done it any favours.
So I'm wondering if I should get new soil, or leave it? Also, should I prune more yellowing branches? Stop watering it for a while?
Any help be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Daniel
