How to Root a Mulberry Bush From Cuttings
Mulberries (Morus spp.) are deciduous trees, but the black mulberry is one of the smallest varieties that, if not trained, will grow more like a bush than a tree. Mulberries produce edible fruits that vary in sweetness among the different varieties. They are propagated in several ways, including from cuttings. Take a softwood cutting during the summer from new growth. This is the most favorable time to take a cutting from a mulberry, according to Washington State University. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Choose a mulberry that appears to be in good health and does not have a disease, insect or nutritional problem.
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Cut off the tip of the healthy mulberry branch, about 4 to 8 inches long.
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3
Strip the leaves on the bottom 2 inches of the cutting and insert it in a rooting hormone available at garden centers.
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Make a hole in a potting medium. New perlite works well for softwood cuttings. Then, insert the cutting into the hole and pack the medium lightly around the cutting. Water the mulberry cutting so the medium is slightly moist.
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Cover the cutting. If you do not have a clear cover, insert a stake or pencil next to either side of the cutting. Then, cover the cutting loosely with a clear plastic bag. You can also cut the bottom off a soda bottle and place it over the cutting, pushing it lightly into the soil. Keep the lid off for ventilation.
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Place the mulberry cutting in a shady area with only indirect light. Maintain slightly moist soil conditions. In about six to eight weeks, gently tug on it to see if it has rooted. Any resistance means your mulberry cutting is successfully forming roots.
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