Does my new Bonsai need repotting???

[NickAdams]

Hi All.

I’m brand new to Bonsai. I brought my first Bonsai last week. I’m not sure whether it needs repotting or not? You can see from these photos that the roots are showing.
It may be just me over thinking it, but I just want to be sure.

Thanks in advance.

 

[vesper818]

That looks like a fukien tea! Very pretty plant, and beautiful flowers. Pull the moss away from growing up the trunk, and water when top of soil feels dry. It should be outside this time of year in a sunny spot.
Repotting can be done on a cool day in summer, but use bonsai soil, well draining and keep in shade for a few days.
Learn it's watering likes first, and don't keep it soggy or sitting in water. Then repot later on.

 

[rockm]

Hi All.

I’m brand new to Bonsai. I brought my first Bonsai last week. I’m not sure whether it needs repotting or not? You can see from these photos that the roots are showing.
It may be just me over thinking it, but I just want to be sure.

Thanks in advance.

yes, it needed repotting two years ago or more HOWEVER, if this is your first bonsai, repotting a root bound tree may present some challenges for you. Fukien Tea (better used name is Carmona, as Fukien tea is outdated) The species is a favorite of "mallsai" vendors who don't actually care for their trees, they just sell them on. That explains the extremely root bound condition of yours--the raised mound under the trunk is a huge sign the tree hasn't been attended to by anyone in a while. Ideally, the bottom visible portion of the trunk should be at the same level as the edge of the pot or juuust a little higher. The pot this is in is three sizes too small as well.

Carmona don't like to have their roots messed with which complicates repotting them.

Here's a decent article on their care. I don't have one, as I don't have the resources to keep tropicals (which require indoor shelter in the wintertime in my area-tropical and many subtropical orgin species can't stand or mostly can't stand freezing).

Care guide for the Carmona Bonsai tree (Fukien tea) - Bonsai Empire

Carmona Bonsai Care guidelines Placement The Fukien Tea is traditionally an indoor Bonsai, but it can be kept outside in very warm climates. It requires a lot o...

www.bonsaiempire.com

 

[NickAdams]

It’s frustrating as I’ve only just purchased it. I don’t want to attempt a repot and kill it. It’s kept by the window and some flowers have started to come out. One of the leaves has dried up and sone are curling.

I don’t know whether to just leave it for the summer and repot next year, if it survives until then!

 

[Gabler]

It’s frustrating as I’ve only just purchased it. I don’t want to attempt a repot and kill it. It’s kept by the window and some flowers have started to come out. One of the leaves has dried up and sone are curling.

I don’t know whether to just leave it for the summer and repot next year, if it survives until then!

Killing your first tree is normal. Try to find a local club with experienced members who can help, but don't fret if you do kill it.

 

[rockm]

It’s frustrating as I’ve only just purchased it. I don’t want to attempt a repot and kill it. It’s kept by the window and some flowers have started to come out. One of the leaves has dried up and sone are curling.

I don’t know whether to just leave it for the summer and repot next year, if it survives until then!

You don't say where you are, but if it's late spring/early summer, the tree will do much better outdoors in a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. Indoors is a stressful environment and will likely add to the problems you're having.

 

[NickAdams]

You don't say where you are, but if it's late spring/early summer, the tree will do much better outdoors in a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. Indoors is a stressful environment and will likely add to the problems you're having.

I’m in the UK. Would that be ok? What if it rains? It’ll be fine I take it.

 

[FreshAirSunshine]

Yep it’ll be fine outside for now.