Arielefex

Hello,
I've had this Fukian Tea tree for about 2yrs. about 2months ago the leaves started turning brown and falling off. Now the tree seams all dried out. I usually water this tree every 13 days. I spritz it almost everyday. It has been on the same spot in our apartment since I got it, and was doing fine until now.
Is there anyway i can save this tree?
I've attached a photo of what it looks like now.

Attached Images

IMG_3199.jpg (39.5 KB, 17 views)

treebeard55

Judging from the picture, and I don't like to say this, but it looks dead.

Have you done a scratch test? Scratch thru the bark, using something sharp -- even a thumbnail will work -- down to wood. If the tree is still alive at the point where you scratch, you will see a green layer under the bark, the cambium. If you see no green, the cambium is dead there, and at all points above the scratch. (By "above," I mean in the direction away from the roots.)

On your tree, I would scratch just above the base. That way you'd know at once if the whole tree is dead. And, again judging by the picture, there's no way to save it.

But there is something important that you can do: sit down and figure out why it died. That way, you can avoid having the same thing happen in the future, and the death of this tree won't be a total loss.

One thing I can tell you right now: watering on a schedule (every so-many days) is never a good idea with a bonsai. A tree's watering needs vary according to time of year, ambient humidity, amount of light it's getting, and a number of other variables. You need to learn to water when the tree needs it. And learning to discern when the tree needs it is one of the important skills in bonsai.

Don't give up! When you're ready, go find another tree. You'll be able to give it better care as a result of what you learn from this one.

And welcome to the forum!

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Treebeard 55
Steve Moore
http://hoosierbonsai.blogspot.com

The most important bonsai tool is your brain.

Phil

That is certainly one crux of the matter as to what may possibly have been an issue. Also, it was never mentioned as to what type of lighting it was given which is another very important factor. Don't give up, and perhaps, as far as a Fukien tea plant is concerned, THIS might possibly shed some light as to its requirements.

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Please, always keep in mind that the typewritten word does not always convey what you wish to say, and to always treat others as you would have them treat you. Think twice-submit once.
I started out with nothing....and still have most of it.
"Its hell out there, give them hell back." ~ Prowler/Victor Gray 12/31/1943 - 11/24/2008

Arielefex

Thanks for the words of wisdom. I had the tree for nearly 2 years and it had been doing well on the schedule, and with the light it always received ( It's in a north facing window) I guess i took it for granted! I am disappointed that the tree is likely dead, but I hope to get another bonsai and try again!