How to Plant Mulberry Trees

There are over 20 species of mulberry trees available to gardeners. Berries come in red, black, and white varieties, with the red and black being the tastiest. The berries can be sweet or tart depending on the variety, although black berries tend to be sweeter than red. Mulberries are high in vitamins C and K, riboflavin, magnesium, potassium, and iron. Mulberries can be eaten raw, turned into jam and sauces, and are used in baked treats. Mulberries also provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for birds, insects, and wildlife. Not picky about soil, mulberries do require at least 6 hours of sun a day and well-drained soil.

Things You'll Need

• Male and female mulberry trees
• Shovel
• Mulch

Instructions

1. Choose a location with full to part sun and well-drained soil. Plant female mulberries away from sidewalks, driveways, houses, patios, and decks because fallen fruit is messy, and the juice stains.

2. Dig a hole just wide and deep enough for the roots. Space multiple trees 15 feet apart.

3. Place the tree in the hole and firm the soil around the roots. Tamp down the soil to eliminate air pockets.

4. To discourage weeds, mulch around the base of the plant. Keep mulch 2 to 3 inches from the trunk. Apply mulch to a depth of 2 to 3 inches and spread it 2 to 3 feet around the trunk.

5. Water your young tree during its first year, allowing the soil to dry out slightly before watering. After your tree is established, it will not need supplemental water.

Tips & Warnings

• To keep birds away from other fruit and berry crops, plant mulberry trees. For use as a shade tree, plant non-fertile male mulberry trees. Mulberries can be kept small and bushy with proper pruning.

• Mulberry juice stains, and berries are attractive to birds. To keep mess to a minimum, plant mulberry trees in out-of-the-way places.

References

• Mulberry Fruit Facts
• Mulberry Tree Planting

Resources

• Gurney's Seed & Nursery Co.: Hardy Mulberry Tree
• Henry Fields Seed & Nursery Co.: Mulberry