A Complete Guide to Growing Mulberries
Mulberries are a rewarding addition to any garden, offering delicious fruit and lush foliage. These hardy plants thrive in well-drained soil with full sun exposure, making them a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Here's everything you need to know to grow and care for mulberries successfully.
Planting and Soil Requirements
Mulberries prefer loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. When planting, ensure ample spacing of 15 to 30 feet between trees to accommodate their spread. For container growing, use successively larger pots during dormancy, allowing the plant to thrive for up to ten years.
To reduce desiccation and frost damage when planting bare-root trees, hydrate the plant thoroughly and prune lateral growth to limit surface area exposure.
Watering and Fertilization
While mulberries are drought-tolerant, insufficient water can cause fruit drop. Consistent moisture is vital, especially during the fruiting season. Fertilize minimally with a balanced amendment in late winter and consider adding a top dressing of well-aged manure in spring for extra nutrients.
Viability and Maintenance
To check tree viability, perform a scratch test on the bark to reveal the green cambium layer beneath. Remove any growth from below the graft to maintain the desired mulberry variety. If the rootstock produces growth, it may still yield fruit, though it won't match the grafted variety.
Receiving and Storing Bare-Root Trees
Upon receiving your bare-root mulberry tree, inspect the roots to ensure they’re moist. If planting isn’t immediate, “heel in” the tree by covering its roots with soil or sand in a sheltered location. Protect the roots from freezing and ensure the tree remains dormant until planting.
Key Tips for Mulberry Success
- Plant in the ground by April 1 for optimal growth.
- Keep young roots hydrated and avoid freezing.
- Prune the main trunk to four feet to promote strong root development.
With proper care, mulberries will produce delicious fruit and become a beautiful feature in your garden.
