Question
My bonsai tree is about 8" and grows in an oval ceramic pot 3 or 4" deep. Now the leaves are withering and dying and a couple branches look like they are dying. There's this white fuzzy stuff in some spots and then there are also these little white bugs they look like little white rolly pollies. Should I spray it with a little soapy water?

Answer
Maria,

Your insects are mealy bugs and yes spray them with either soapy water or rubbing alcohol straight from the bottle. The soapy water should be 1 tablespoon liquid soap mixed with 1 quart of water.

Now let's talk about why the leaves are withering and branches are dying. What kind of bonsai tree is it? A ficus or what?  Where do you have it sitting? How much light does it get? How long have you owned it? Where did you get it? Where do you live, city and state? Answer those questions and I will try to help you improve it's health. Good luck.

Darlene