The mulberry tree (Morus) is a fast-growing deciduous tree prized for its sweet, unique berries and attractive canopy. These trees have a long history of cultivation, particularly Morus alba for silkworm production, and remain popular in home gardens. Mulberry trees are resilient, providing a bountiful harvest quickly once established. Their adaptability and ease of growth make them a rewarding choice.
Selecting the Right Mulberry Variety
Selecting the right species for your climate and desired outcome is the first step, as the three main types have distinct characteristics. Morus alba, or White Mulberry, is the most cold-hardy, thriving in USDA Hardiness Zone 4 and warmer climates. Despite its name, the fruit often ripens to pink, purple, or black. The flavor is generally sweet but can be bland compared to other species.
The Red Mulberry (Morus rubra) is native to North America and is very cold-tolerant, offering a sweet fruit with a richer flavor than the white variety. Morus nigra, the Black Mulberry, is native to Western Asia and produces the best-tasting fruit, possessing a balance of sweetness and tartness. However, the Black Mulberry is the least cold-tolerant, performing best in Zone 7 and warmer regions.
Also consider the mature size of the tree, as the White and Red varieties can reach heights of 40 to 60 feet. If garden space is limited, look for compact selections like the ‘Gerardi Dwarf’ or weeping varieties that maintain a manageable size. Many modern cultivars are self-fertile, meaning a single tree will produce fruit. Ensure the variety chosen is female or self-pollinating, as male trees only produce pollen.
Sourcing the Tree: Purchase Options
Local independent nurseries are excellent sources for trees adapted to your regional climate and soil conditions. Staff can offer specialized advice on the best cultivars for your area. The primary drawback to local nurseries is that they may carry a limited selection, focusing mainly on common or well-established varieties.
Large chain garden centers offer convenience and lower prices due to high volume. However, the selection of mulberry varieties is usually generic, and the plants may not be as well-cared for as those at a dedicated nursery. Staff often lack the specific horticultural expertise needed to advise on mulberry cultivation.
Specialized online or mail-order nurseries provide access to the widest selection of rare or newly developed cultivars, including dwarf and weeping forms. This is useful if you are seeking a specific variety, such as the cold-sensitive Morus nigra or a unique hybrid not locally available. While online orders offer diversity, shipping costs can be substantial, and the tree must endure the stress of transit.
Understanding Tree Formats and Purchase Timing
Mulberry trees are typically sold in two formats: bare-root or container-grown, which affects the optimal time for purchase and planting. Bare-root stock consists of dormant trees dug from the ground, with all soil washed away. This format is less expensive and lighter to ship, making it the most common choice for mail-order nurseries.
Bare-root trees must be planted during the dormant season (late winter to early spring) before the buds open. This limited planting window requires quick action upon arrival to ensure the roots do not dry out. Container-grown trees are sold with their root system intact in a pot, making them more expensive due to the cost of soil and shipping weight.
The advantage of container-grown trees is that they can be planted any time of year since the root system is not disturbed. This flexibility is useful for gardeners who miss the bare-root season. The least expensive option is a cutting, which must be rooted by the gardener and carries a higher risk of failure than a pre-established tree.
Initial Care and Site Selection
Successful establishment depends heavily on proper site selection and immediate post-planting care. Mulberry trees require a location that receives full sun for at least six hours daily to ensure vigorous growth and maximum fruit production. While adaptable to many soil types, they thrive in well-draining loam. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
It is important to consider the practical implications of the fruit when selecting a permanent planting location. Fallen, dark-colored berries will heavily stain sidewalks, patios, and driveways, so plan to plant the tree away from these areas. Once the tree is placed in its hole (twice as wide as the root ball), it requires a thorough, deep watering to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
During the first growing season, newly planted trees need consistent moisture to establish their roots. Water the tree deeply every two to three days for the initial two weeks, then transition to a deep weekly watering for the remainder of the first year, particularly during dry spells. Apply a two-to-four-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.