Hello Bonsai Empire people! I am hoping to get some input from wiser people than I. I just acquired a Brazilian Rain Tree. It's my 2nd "indoor" tree. {I have 12 Deciduous trees} I am in Michigan so I wanted something besides my outdoor trees so in the winter I can keep something inside.

My question is, it needs to be repotted, I see the roots on the top soil, but its late August here. I cant get enough solid info online about repotting. Some say spring but I did read that if its indoor anytime is ok.

The tree is probably 3 years old...ish

Anyone have an opinion or advice on what I can do? Wait it out until spring or is it ok to repot now?

Thanks!!

FIRST POST!!

dusty

Hey dusty.
You can repot your tree abutment if its a tropical. Just don't trim the roots until its next growth spurt. It'll be fine.

Thanks Pinkham!

So maybe just slip pot it? Or can I dig thru and clear out the soil...just dont cut roots yet?

dusty

I wouldn't disturb them too much. I don't know anything about how this tree reacts to stress like re-potting or root pruning. Don't dig anything out. get the loose soil out, but don't cut any roots.

I just put it in a pot I had from an older bonsai. Just added soil to fill the gaps.

It was in a plastic grow pot. When I took it out it is full of roots. Ugly!!! Next spring I will have an afternoon of peeling and cutting and really going to town on this.

I can't seem to add a photo from my iPad but I wil post photos once I get to my main computer.

Thanks again!

Dusty

I can't add pictures through my android either
Maybe this is a tree that will take root pruning well this time of year. I'd research that a little.

Look what I found

Repotting Special Instructions: Repotting must be performed periodically on all bonsai when their roots outgrow the pot. Your tree should be repotted as a general rule every 2 - 3 years. You should examine your trees root system to determine if it has become pot bound. Repotting should be done in mid-summer.

Thanks Pinkham...I did see this and thats why I thought to seek someone with a bit more knowledge....although its technically its past mid summer...by just a few weeks, I thought it may be ok...

Here are some pics....

I have never done extensive root pruning. Last year I did my first on my biggest trident maple. After an hour I was quite sure I killed it.

Hopefully someone with knowledge of this tree or a Texas Ebony can chime in.

Here is a recent pic oy my Trident that is growing like crazy after what I did to it.

Dusty,
That Maple is looking good.
One thing about trees is that if you do what your supposed to do at the right time they will reward you with healthy growth.
All I can say is keep up the good work.