The mulberry tree is a real ornament in the garden. But in order for it to grow vigorously and bear a variety of fruits, a few things have to be considered when planting.
There are many good reasons to grow a mulberry tree. The plant, which belongs to the mulberry family - also known as Moraceae - is known for its mulberries, which can be enjoyed like raisins or made into jam and syrup. On the other hand, the plant, which the Romans also cultivated, appeals to a particularly large number of people because of its decorative appearance. You can now find out how best to plant a mulberry tree, what should not be disregarded under any circumstances and which tools are required for this.
Mulberry Tree Basics
There are more than ten mulberry species in total, all of which have one thing in common: They grow as strong trees up to eight meters high, but can also be used as a hedge and cared for. The wide treetop grows relatively dense and can therefore provide a lot of shade. The mulberry trees are not particularly resistant to frost, but they can still successfully overwinter in the right place in the garden. Mulberry trees grow particularly well in moist soil, which offers many nutrients - but they also easily inhabit somewhat drier substrates.
Choose the best location
If you know about the way of life and the growth of the mulberry trees, their ideal habitat and location is self-evident: All types of mulberry trees need a very sunny, but still well-protected place in the garden. This should be measured quite generously, since the tree crown and root system spread well. Incidentally, this also applies if you want to grow the mulberry tree as a hedge.
Caution: fruit stains
It is important to remember that the fruit of the mulberry tree stains very badly - stains on the fruit are difficult to remove remove. For this reason, it is recommended not to place mulberry trees next to terraces, porches or sidewalks, as well as house walls.
Before you can actually plant, you should make a large hole in the chosen locationdig out enough space for the roots of the tree to unfold. Furthermore, the soil should be loosened in it to make it easier for the tree to settle in. A short water bath of the roots beforehand is recommended so that the roots receive sufficient moisture and thus grow better at the new location. Depending on the size of the tree, a support stake should also be provided, as larger trees may need a sturdy support against severe weather as they grow into their new location.
The right time to plant
Once you have determined a location for the mulberry tree, the only thing missing is the right time - both spring and autumn are good for planting, as the mulberry tree can still take root sufficiently before the first minus temperatures. If you want to be on the safe side or simply don't have enough space, you can also plant the mulberry tree in a bucket if you like - this is possible all year round and has the advantage of being able to bring the tree inside for the winter.
Choose high-quality substrate
Now all that is missing is the right substrate: This should be as loose and permeable as possible, but also pH-neutral and very nutritious to allow the mulberry tree to thrive. Otherwise, all you have to do is follow the following steps:
- The planting hole should be twice the size of the tree roots - holes that have already been dug can be expanded quickly if necessary, the main thing is that the earth has been loosened all around again
- If you want, you can add some sand to the dug hole and then loosen it up again
- For some fertilization at the beginning of the rooting, you can mix compost into the bought potting soil and put it into the hole
- plant the mulberry tree so that it is just as deep in the ground as in its previous container
- Cover the roots and trunk with soil and stabilize them so that the tree has a firm footing
- Tap the earth a little bit
- Insert the support stake (only for larger mulberry trees) and connect it to the tree, for example with wire
- Pour plenty of water to moisturize the tree and its roots
Do's and don'ts when planting mulberry trees
Dos
✔ make sure there is plenty of moisture that can drain off easily
✔ use a pH-neutral or slightly alkaline substrate
✔ use compost to make potting soil even more nutritious
✔ protect the roots moisten briefly before planting
✔ plan enough space
✔ provide a support pole
Don'ts
✘ Use acidic substrate, mulberry trees usually do not respond well to this
✘ Allow large trees to root without support - they often snap over or snap off completely during storms
✘ Roots before planting let it dry out
✘ Risk waterlogging - accumulating moisture in the root system makes the tree more susceptible to diseases and mold so that it can die
Growing Mulberry Tree from Seeds
Of course, you can also plant the mulberry tree by seed to grow the plant. However, not many people do this because the mulberry tree has to grow for up to ten years before it bears fruit and the first harvest can take place. If you still want to plant from seeds, you will definitely need suitable containers for raising the seedlings. Small flower pots or balcony boxes are good. Above all, the vessels should have a water drain to prevent waterlogging. Sowing is possible at any time, the seeds ripen best in indirect sun and above 20 degrees.
The mulberry tree germinates in the dark, so the seeds must be covered with soil until seedlings have formed.
When growing from seeds, it is also important to use a peat-free substrate that is low in nutrients and contains a small amount of sand to allow the seedlings to thrive optimally. Moisture is a must if you want to see the seedlings sprout after about two or three weeks.
By the way, you don't necessarily have to buy seeds for a mulberry tree: If you have fresh mulberries to eat, for example, the seeds can be removed very easily. If you let them dry for several hours on kitchen paper, they will be more durable and can be easily stored until the next sowing. Packed in air-permeable bags made of fabric, they also make a nice gift for hobby gardeners and lovers of the tree species. However, seeds obtained in this way must be dried thoroughly in order not to become mouldy.