La white mulberry (Morus alba) is a deciduous tree native to East Asia, ideal for both urban and rural gardens, thanks to its rapid growth, hardiness and its ability to adapt to different types of soils and climates. Universally appreciated for its ornamental value, fruits and leaves, the white mulberry has also become a fundamental species in the sericulture (silkworm breeding) and in the textile industry, in addition to being part of botanical and medicinal traditions.
Characteristics and morphology of the white mulberry
La white mulberry It can reach between 10 and 20 m in height under optimal conditions and live for more than a century. Its leaves are large, alternate and lobed, bright green and deciduous: they provide dense shade in summer and fall off in autumn. The sturdy, highly branched branches bear small flowers clustered in spikes. The fruits, although their name suggests "white mulberry," can vary from white to dark purple and must be harvested carefully due to their fragility. There are varieties no fruits or with few fruits, ideal for urban areas where you want to take advantage of their shade without the inconvenience of stains on the ground.
Main benefits and uses of white mulberry
- Food and health: The blackberries are rich in fiber, vitamins (C and K), antioxidants and minerals, making them healthy for fresh consumption or in preparations such as jams, juices and desserts. Its use in traditional medicine extends to prevent cardiovascular disease, improve digestive, immune, and skin health, and even regulate blood sugar.
- Ecosystem and gardening: The foliage provides shelter and shade, benefiting the garden's microclimate and offering food to numerous species of birds, butterflies, silkworms and moths.
- Sericulture and textile industry: The leaves are essential for raising silkworms. In addition, the bark and roots provide quality fibers and natural pigments for dyeing fabrics.
- Functional properties: The wood is very hard, durable and useful in carpentry or for making utensils and tool handles.
White Mulberry Care
- Location: Requires full sun for optimal fruit production and vigorous growth. It tolerates semi-shade, but growth will be slower.
- Ground: Prefer fertilized, deep, and well-drained soilsIt tolerates poor, dry, and compacted soils, although it suffers in waterlogged or very clayey substrates. The optimal pH ranges from neutral to slightly alkaline.
- Irrigation: During the first years you need regular waterings and deep to develop a strong root system. Once established, it generally tolerates drought, although it's advisable to increase watering in summer or during dry spells.
- Pruning: The white mulberry tree responds well to pruning. formation and fruitionAnnual pruning, in winter or early spring, is essential to clear dead branches, control size, and promote leaf production.
- Fertilization: An annual application of balanced fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 ratio) in late winter is ideal. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-aged manure, improves the soil and promotes tree health.
- Tutoring: It is advisable to place a tutor in the first years to promote vertical growth of the trunk.
planting and propagation
- Planting from seeds: It is viable but slow, since seed plants can vary in flavor and fruit quality.
- Cuttings: The most efficient method is by semi-woody cuttings, which root well in light, moist substrates under a controlled environment.
- Transplant: Purchasing seedlings and transplanting them to their final location after preparing a generous hole with a mixture of compost and soil is a practical and quick option.
- Distance: It is advisable to plant them with a minimum distance of 5 m between adult specimens.
Recommendations for maintenance and problem prevention
- Padded: It helps conserve moisture and contribute organic matter, improving soil structure.
- Frost protection: Essential for young specimens; it is recommended to cover them with thermal blankets in areas with harsh climates.
- Pest Prevention: The mulberry tree is hardy but can be attacked by whiteflies, mealybugs, or aphids, especially on young trees. The use of horticultural oils or natural products are recommended.
- Disease prevention: Watch for the appearance of powdery mildew, anthracnose, or mildew. Maintaining good airflow through pruning and avoiding waterlogging are the best preventative measures.
- Space: It is important to plant mulberry trees away from important structures such as foundations and pipes, as their roots are vigorous and expansive.
Varieties and ornamental uses
- Morus alba: Both fruit and ornamental varieties (such as the fruitless mulberry or 'Pendula').
- morus nigra: Rarer in gardens, known for its dark, large fruits.
- Ulmus rubra: Characterized by its rough leaves and intense red or purple fruits.
- morus australis: Smaller in size, appreciated in gardening.
La white mulberry It is a versatile and resistant tree that can be part of any garden, providing beauty, shade, healthy fruits and ecological valueWith proper care, you'll enjoy its presence for decades, while also contributing to the biodiversity and sustainability of the environment.
