The Mulberry tree adds beautiful character to any allotment or garden with its slow-growing, branches that twist and turn and spread with gnarly shapes and heart-shaped leaves. The juicy, sweet fruits form during late summer but can take several years to start producing.
Mulberries can be planted as dormant bareroot trees from autumn to early spring; it is ideal to plant early autumn when the soil is still warm or in early spring when the soil is starting to warm up. Container grown trees can be planted any time.
Although Mulberries can grow very tall; due to their slow growth rate, they can be ideal for container growing and can also be pruned and trained. Only prune them during winter, when the tree is dormant.
Mulberry trees like a sunny and sheltered position in well-drained, moist soil. Allow plenty of space surrounding the Mulberry for its expansion. Dig in some well-rotted manure or compost. Add mulch to retain moisture and supress the weeds. Your Mulberry tree may require some support with a stake. Take care when planting, as the roots can be brittle.
Water regularly until it becomes established and regularly water container grown trees as compost dries out quickly. Water the trees when they are fruiting. The Mulberries may require some netting to stop the birds from eating them.
From late summer; August - September, the fruits will form. Mulberries look like large blackberries; turning from red to a glossy black. The fruit can be picked individually. Be mindful that they can stain your hands and clothing.
Mulberries are deliciously sweet when they have turned black and soft. They can be enjoyed fresh or cooked in desserts and jams. They can be frozen for cooking or dried.