Mulberry Trees
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South Downs National Park
Meet John
110 years' expertise free with every tree
John’s family have been growing trees in the South Downs National Park for over a century, and it shows. Dug up and sent straight to your garden at between 18-36 months old, their quality rootstocks, expert pruning and natural pest control mean that these traditionally field-grown trees are the hardiest you can get.
Mulberry FAQs
What types of mulberry trees can I grow in the UK?
All mulberry trees do well in the UK, with most common types grown here being Morus nigra (black mulberry), Morus alba (white mulberry), and Morus rubra (red mulberry).
When is the best time to plant mulberry trees in the UK?
Bare root mulberry trees need to be planted during the dormant season, from November to March. Pot grown trees can be planted at any time of year (although during the dormant season is best) provided the ground isn’t waterlogged or frozen. It’s best to avoid planting mulberries during hot, dry spells.
Where should I plant my mulberry tree?
Mulberry trees are fine in most soil types, although they prefer slightly acidic soil. Plant your tree in a sunny, sheltered spot with well drained soil. Mulberries are large trees and are not usually grown in pots.
How much space do mulberry trees need?
Mulberry trees can grow up to 10m if left unpruned, so it's important to give them plenty of space to spread out. Plant young trees at least 2-3m apart.
How often should I water my mulberry tree?
Mulberry trees prefer to be in consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season. Water them deeply when they’re newly planted, then once or twice a week in dry weather once they’re established.
Do mulberry trees require pruning?
Mulberry trees thrive on regular pruning, which helps to keep them healthy and productive. Prune your tree in late winter or early spring while it’s dormant, removing any dead or diseased branches and thinning out crowded or crossing stems.
How long does it take for mulberry trees to bear fruit?
Mulberry trees will usually start to fruit 3-5 years after planting, although it can sometimes take longer. Once established though, just try and stop them - they can produce fruit for decades!
How do I harvest mulberries?
Mulberries are ready to pick when they’re fully ripe and easily come away from the stem. You can pick them by hand or spread a tarp under the tree and shake the branches gently to make the ripe fruit fall.
Can I grow mulberry trees in containers?
Most mulberry trees do best in the ground, but you can plant dwarf varieties in large containers. They’ll need regular watering and feeding to keep their roots happy, and you should keep an eye on the pruning to make sure they don’t get too big for their space.
