Why aren't the leaves on my bonsai bursting?

Question

I have a bonsai, all was going fine for a long time. Then suddenly the leaves went brittle (not yellow just brittle) and fell off! I was delighted about 2 months ago to see all new baby shoots appearing. I have misted and soaked religiously but to no avail. The buds are nice and plump but not bursting and the tree is still very much alive. When soaking tonight I noticed a white dewy residue on the soil surace and so brushed it off. Not sure if I should pop her outdoors. She is in the coolest part of my room away from heat and direct sunlight. Any further suggestions would be gratefully received!

PS I think she's a chinese elm

Answer 1

Please stop the soaking, if it is in fact a chinese elm, they don't like to be kept wet. Water it from the top, just like any other plant, when the soil appears to just start drying. The white residue on your soil surface is most likely a fungus or mold caused by overwatering. This, combined with misting, would cause the new leaf buds to rot before opening.

Moving the tree outdoors would be a good idea. Depending on the temperature difference from your house to outdoors, you may need to do this gradually. Also, start with a very shady spot and gradually move it towards partial sun. Elms don't like to be in full sun.

Answer 2

Watering should be done in the morning so the plant can drain and dry. The residue may be mold may from cool & damp but if it brushes off it could be mineral salt rising up during soakings.

Water from the top in the morning and refer to this site for more care info. Look specifically for Chinese elm. There are different treatments for indoor and outdoor habitats.

http://www.american-bonsai.com