Got a second tree, looking to make sure it’s doing alright.

[HighAltitudeBunny]

After picking up my first tree, a Chinese elm, I found a listing online for a natal plum carissa and couldn’t help but pick it up. Here’s some pictures!

As far as I can tell it doesn’t seem too unhappy, although that will remain to be seen as it adjusts to the new climate. However (and you might already be able to see it in those pictures) there appears to be a white substance on some of the leaves. Here’s a better picture:

The tree was packed with packing peanuts and I’m wondering if that might be the cause. Either way, I’d still like to see if anyone knows anything about what this could be and if I should worry.

Additionally, if anyone has worked with this particular species and has any tips, I’d love to hear them! I’m very excited for the growing season next year.

 

[Deep Sea Diver]

Congratulations on your new acquisition to your collection.

This will be a challenge as Natal Plums are a zone 9-11 tree. But this can be managed if one is on their game. The Chinese Elm is going to be much less of a challenge as they are pretty tough trees.

Natal Plums are prone to powdery mildew, but those look like water spots to me. In any event, please do not water the leaves and keep decent ventilation. Also watch for white spots expanding under the leaves and also on top.

Cheers
DSD sends

 

[HighAltitudeBunny]

Congratulations on your new acquisition to your collection.

This will be a challenge as Natal Plums are a zone 9-11 tree. But this can be managed if one is on their game. The Chinese Elm is going to be much less of a challenge as they are pretty tough trees.

Natal Plums are prone to powdery mildew, but those look like water spots to me. In any event, please do not water the leaves and keep decent ventilation. Also watch for white spots expanding under the leaves and also on top.

Cheers
DSD sends

Thank you very much for your insight, I’ll be sure to keep a window open whenever I can. I’ll keep an eye on the leaves too like you said. I’m curious though, what can I do to be on top of my game with this tree? I’ll admit, I forgot to check what zones this species thrives in so I want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to keep it happy and healthy.

 

[Deep Sea Diver]

Nice question!

Start with the plant likes good sun, warmer environment per the zones listed above and ensure proper watering.

A little muffin fan might help avoid open windows…

Perhaps something like this or a bit larger….

Loading…

a.co

Best
DSD sends

 

[Michael P]

The white spots are almost certainly hard water residue and harmless to the tree. For some reason the species seems prone to this. My natal plum almost always shows these and I haven't discovered an easy way to prevent or remove them. Spraying the tree with a weak solution of dish washing detergent then cleaning the individual leaves with a cloth or paper towel helps but is really tedious.

My first bonsai is a natal plum, acquired in 1975. It is still with me! The fact that it survived my decades of ignorance and several near-death events proves how easy they are to grow.

 

[HighAltitudeBunny]

The white spots are almost certainly hard water residue and harmless to the tree. For some reason the species seems prone to this. My natal plum almost always shows these and I haven't discovered an easy way to prevent or remove them. Spraying the tree with a weak solution of dish washing detergent then cleaning the individual leaves with a cloth or paper towel helps but is really tedious.

My first bonsai is a natal plum, acquired in 1975. It is still with me! The fact that it survived my decades of ignorance and several near-death events proves how easy they are to grow.View attachment 622195

Wow! That’s incredible! It looks absolutely amazing and I’m so glad it’s been with you for so long. I’ll give cleaning the leaves a shot, maybe some gentle work with a cotton swab would do the trick? Thanks again!

 

[HighAltitudeBunny]

Nice question!

Start with the plant likes good sun, warmer environment per the zones listed above and ensure proper watering.

A little muffin fan might help avoid open windows…

Perhaps something like this or a bit larger….

Loading…

a.co

Best
DSD sends

Ooh! Makes sense, I’ll see if I can budget a fan in. I’ll also keep it in for the winter till I can put up a small greenhouse for my trees to go in. I wouldn’t want it getting too cold.

 

[HighAltitudeBunny]

Also, just for my sake, I’m wondering what times of year are the best for certain tasks when it comes to a broadleaf evergreen like this. I know with the Elm I have, there’s good rules of thumb for when to prune, when to repot, when to wire, but I’m not sure if any of those change when applied to a tree that keeps it’s leaves year round. Any input is appreciated!

 

[Deep Sea Diver]

This article on Natal Plum ought to get you on the right track.

Care guide for the Natal Plum Bonsai (Carissa macrocarpa or Dwarf plum) - Bonsai Empire

Natal Plum Bonsai Care guidelines Placement The Natal Plum bonsai requires full sunlight to thrive. It should be placed in a location where it receives at least...

www.bonsaiempire.com

Cheers
DSD sends