save a fruit bearing Bonsai

Question

When is too late to save a fruit bearing Bonsai after an attack by spider mites? It was a Christmas gift that arrived through the mail. Tree was crammed in a box, container in plastic wrap. Top leaves were bent, broken and the berries have fallen of by the dozen. Still the tree was full and lots and lots of berries remained. I thought the dieback was due to shipping, but then noticed within days the leaves curling and turning brown and brittle. The berries were fading as well. Then a closer look the next week revealed spots that looked like fly specks. Then I was watering and the rock shifted and there was a white worm under it. I watered with a shot of ammonia. My other plants love it, worms don’t, and the tree began to look better and new growth began, almost too fast. But a couple of days later the growth began to wither. I examined the tree and then found the webs. It was covered from top to bottom. This was mid Jan. I cleaned the remaining leaves and berries with water, dish soap and a little ammonia, then sprayed with clear water, followed by brushing the entire tree with a dry brush. It seemed to be getting better. Then all the leaves and berries dropped. I cut a branch back a little and the tree is still alive there. That was the day before yesterday. Is there any hope, or should I give up?

Answer 1

You might have success treating the plant with neem oil. Here is more info: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm