Way to go Eric. I'd say you've given it the ole college try. Of course, knowing what you know, you wont be too disappointed if it doesn't make it. See below.
Regards,
Shelly Hurd Central CA - Sunset Zone 8-USDA Zone 9

----- Original Message -----
From:
To:
Sent: Monday, December 22, 2003 4:35 PM
Subject: [IBC] mall-sai rescue


I'm now the proud (?) owner of a mall-sai.

My wife called me. "Sam's has bonsai trees on clearance for $4. Includes
the tree, a pot, and a wooden stand."

For $4, I figured it would be a cheap experiment.
SNIP
I had read the stories about glued on stones, but I never dreamed they were
glued on to this extent! First chore was gettng the stone-covered,
compacted cube out of the pot. Under the root ball, there was a big chunk
of styrofoam. I assume that's to help promote root rot before killing the
tree off from lack of water.
ROFLMAO
SNIP

I cut away most of the tap root and about 2/3rds of the feeder roots, as
instructed by a bonsai book I have. Planted in a gallon pot. I used
"cactus soil" for lack of anything better now...it's a special mix of very
well draining soil. I figured regular potting soil wouldn't drain enough.

Cutting the roots right now may NOT have been a good idea, but then Bonsai Books seldom tell us to use our own common sense before we do what they say.

SNIP
In the meantime, I figured I'd mist it often.
This may or may not be effective. Better to carefully monitor the soil in the pot.
Regards
Shelly Hurd - Central Cal., Sunset 8, USDA 9.


************************************************** ******************************
++++Sponsored, in part, by Jarbas Godoy ++++
************************************************** ******************************
-- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ --
+++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++