Thank you for the replies, they're appreciated.
It's so interesting to see the opposing info I've received about this plant over the years from various sources. Despite all my reading and trying to learn, it seems that trial and error is teaching me the most, both good and bad.
Will, I've read that repotting and sometimes root pruning is needed and good for the plant when you're trying to keep it in the same pot. I've also read that flushing the soil to wash out any accumulated salts is a good idea, so that's also why I'd take it to the tub a few times a year. I used to pay attention only to the top layers of the soil then heard all about the dowel so I incorporated that. With all the attention I'd given to it I'm so surprised that I let it get dry enough to be a problem. Live and learn.
I have yet to find a saucer deep enough for the size of the pot the tree is in so what I do have catches only a little bit of runoff - makes it hard to water thoroughly. If I can figure that out, maybe by getting a gardening tub to put it in, I should have a solution.
This was a massive learning experience. I will put the plant on the eastern side of the porch so the new leaves, if I'm lucky enough to have any show up, will be more acclimated to the light when it's again moved inside. Thank you for that suggestion.
