Growing Mulberries in Your Backyard
Introduction to Mulberries
Mulberries are delicious, versatile fruits that can be a fantastic addition to your backyard garden. Not only do they provide a bountiful harvest, but they also add a touch of beauty to your landscape. In this article, we'll explore the different varieties of mulberries, how to grow them in your backyard, and our experiences and advice in grafting these delightful trees.
Mulberries We Grow
Mulberry Varieties We Want
First source- https://dingdongsgarden.com/pages/rooting-mulberry-success-rates
second - https://fruitsandgardening.blogspot.com/search?q=mulberry
4 Seasons
Taiwanese Origin
The Four Seasons mulberry is a one-of-a-kind variety that is able to produce a bountiful harvest of delicious fruits from May all the way through October in a climate of 8a. It is believed to be an evergreen cultivar, and could potentially yield fruit year-round in tropical conditions. While the initial fruits of the season may not be as sweet as those harvested later on, they boast a unique sweetness paired with a complexity of flavor, especially when ripening in hot weather. Additionally, they possess a pleasant acidity that adds to their overall taste profile. The fruits are large and dark in color, and the tree itself is small in size, growing in a bush-like manner with low branching and slender branches. The leaves of this variety are also notably small in size.
Planning Mulberries in Your Backyard
To successfully grow mulberries in your backyard, it's essential to choose the right location, prepare the soil, and follow the proper planting process.
Choosing the Right Location
Mulberry trees need full sun to produce the best fruit, so choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Ensure the area has well-draining soil, as mulberries don't do well in waterlogged conditions.
Preparing the Soil
Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it and adding compost or aged manure to improve fertility. This will give your mulberry tree the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
Planting Process
Once you've selected a suitable location and prepared the soil, it's time to plant your mulberry tree. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, place the tree in the hole, and backfill with soil. Water the tree thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Caring for Your Mulberry Trees
Proper care is crucial for the health and productivity of your mulberry trees. This includes watering, pruning, and pest control.
Watering
Mulberry trees are relatively drought-tolerant but still require consistent watering, especially during the first few years. Water your tree deeply once a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. As your tree becomes more established, you can reduce the frequency of watering.
Pruning
Pruning your mulberry tree will encourage healthy growth, increase fruit production, and maintain its size. Prune in late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, as well as any that are growing vertically or towards the center of the tree. This will help open up the tree's canopy, allowing sunlight and air circulation.
Pest Control
Mulberry trees can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, scale insects, and whiteflies. Monitor your tree for signs of infestation and treat accordingly with insecticidal soap or other appropriate methods. Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, by planting companion plants that attract them.