I bought a beautiful looking Bonsai today-now I afraid of killing it. It looks just like a miniature tree.

A tag stuck in the soil says it is a "Dwarf Myrtle" There is also a long official name, but I don't want to repeat it here.

Is it an indoor or outdoor variety? All instructions for care start with that, and I haven't the foggiest idea.

Warren.

The Myrtle is an indoor plant as you originally assumed. They are sub-tropicals so they require warmth throughout the year but with slightly reduced temperatures in winter so the tree can enter its semi-dormant rest period. In fact, in summer it cannot be too hot for Myrtles. They adore heat and relatively high humidity but are not so happy if exposed to direct sun through glass. Just don't let them dry out!

If kept indoors all year round, place near a sunny window but where it will be shaded from afternoon sun. Outdoors in summer, the tree can be exposed to full sun but the pot should be shaded to prevent it causing the roots to overheat.

In winter, maintain temperatures at about 41-46 degrees F and keep away from cold draughts.

Repot every two to three years in spring, but take care not to cut too far into the old roots. If you want to reduce the heavier roots, do so over a number of years. Use a standard soil mix.

You can prune your Myrtle at any time of the year but it is best done whilst the tree is resting. Pruning while the tree is growing will encourage the production of masses of unwanted roots.

Water carefully during the growing period, keeping the soil moist but never allowing it to be saturated. Myrtles dislike having their roots wet for too long. In winter keep watering to a minimum - just enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Mist with fresh water daily.

Water with collected rainwater as often as possible as Myrtles are prolific lime-haters and will deteriorate if supplied 'hard' tap water (containing lime) all the time.

Feed with half-strength, balanced feed while the tree is in active growth. Do not feed in winter.

Regards,

Dan