Freeze Damage on Mulberry Trees
Mulberry trees originated in China before being brought to the United Stated during Colonial times. These landscape trees respond differently to freeze damage depending on their species. For example, white mulberry trees are more tolerant to freezing temperatures than red mulberry trees, according to California Rare Fruit Growers. Understanding more about the different tolerance levels for mulberry trees helps gardeners provide protection for the trees during freezes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Tolerance Levels
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White mulberry trees are the most tolerant species of cold temperatures. Some trees are able to survive temperatures around -25 degrees Fahrenheit. This is not an across-the-board rule and some white mulberry trees may be harmed when temperatures dip to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Red mulberry trees are tolerant of sub-zero temperatures, according to California Rare Fruit Growers. Black mulberry trees have the least resistance to cold temperatures; black mulberries are unable to survive temperatures lower than 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Freeze Damage Test
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Damage from freezes or frosts occur overnight. While numerous symptoms may look like disease, gardeners tell the difference from damage from cold temperatures by testing leaves. Place fresh mulberry leaves in the freezer for a couple of hours, as suggested by the University of Illinois. Compare the leaves with the foliage on the mulberry tree to see if there are corresponding symptoms. Generally, freeze damage causes leaves to look water-soaked shriveled, disfigured, black and discolored.
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Other Symptoms
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Damage from freezing temperatures may kill branches and twigs. To judge if a mulberry's branch is dead, scrape the wood with a knife. Black or brown underneath the scrape indicates a dead branch. If there is greenish white under the scrape, the mulberry branch is alive. Gardeners must prune off dead branches to reduce the risk of the branch falling or contracting a disease. Damaged mulberry trees are at a higher risk for health problems during the growing year. By monitoring the tree, gardeners can troubleshoot any early heath problems.
Treatment
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Watering damaged mulberry trees treats winter damage. Mulberry trees damaged from freeze suffer from dehydration. By slowly applying water around the dripline, gardeners are able to hydrate the tree. Remove any grass or weeds growing underneath the mulberry tree and mulch the area. Spread a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture and insulate roots. Avoid fertilizing mulberry trees in the late fall or winter to prevent freeze damage to new growth.
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