Bonsaify | How to Diagnose a Problem with a Japanese Red Pine Bonsai Tree

Follow along this diagnostic, problem-solving exercise as Eric uncovers a health issue with a friend's bonsai! This Japanese red pine has been growing in a warm part of the San Francisco Bay area. Six months after decandling, the tree now has yellowing and browning needles.

00:01:20 Eric shares some background about how to diagnose a potential problem with a bonsai tree.

00:02:14 It can be difficult to determine what caused a tree's health issues.

00:03:21 An up-close look at an affected needled using a 20x loupe. If you want a loupe like Eric uses, check this link: https://amzn.to/3yZhy5y.

00:04:04 Eric pulls the tree out of its pot to look at the roots. They look pretty good with encouraging mycorrhizal activity. This means the roots are putting out a good amount of root izoate.

00:05:33 Another up-close look, this time at a pair of needles with some discoloration. After a bit of research, Eric assesses that it does look like a fungal pathogen, a needle blight of some sort.

00:06:06 Eric recommends spraying the tree with copper spray to keep the fungus from spreading to other trees in the bonsai garden. He recommends using Bonide Copper Spray, which is available here: https://amzn.to/3qpHiUR.

Share your stories of diagnosis in the comments below! Please share this video with your bonsai friends; like it and as always, subscribe to our channel!