Black Mulberry - 7 ft tall

Black mulberry (Morus nigra) is a species of flowering plant in the mulberry family. It's known for its deliciously sweet and tart berries and is native to western Asia but has been cultivated in Europe and other parts of the world for centuries. 

🌳 The Tree

• Size: Typically grows 30–40 feet (9–12 m) tall.

• Leaves: Broad, heart-shaped, and rough to the touch.

• Lifespan: Can live for hundreds of years if well cared for.

🍇 The Fruit

• Appearance: Dark purple to almost black when ripe, similar in shape to a blackberry.

• Taste: Rich, tangy, and sweet—often considered the best-tasting mulberry species.

• Uses: Great for eating fresh, making jams, jellies, wines, desserts, and syrups

• Growing black mulberries (Morus nigra) can be super rewarding—these trees are pretty low-maintenance once established, and the berries are delicious. Here's a straightforward guide to help you grow black mulberry successfully:

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  🌱 1. Choosing the Right Spot

  • Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours a day).

  • Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil. Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

  • Space: These trees can spread wide (up to 20–30 ft), so give them room.

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  🌳 2. Planting

  • When: Early spring or fall.

  • How:

    • Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.

    • Mix compost into the soil if it's poor or clay-heavy.

    • Plant the tree at the same depth it was in its pot.

    • Water deeply after planting.

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  💧 3. Watering

  • Young trees: Water regularly (once or twice a week), especially during dry spells.

  • Established trees: Drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering.

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  🌿 4. Fertilizing

  • When: Late winter or early spring.

  • What: Balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10), or composted manure.

  • Avoid over-fertilizing; it can cause excessive leafy growth and fewer fruits.

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  ✂️ 5. Pruning

  • When: Late winter (dormant season).

  • Why: To shape the tree, remove dead/damaged branches, and improve air circulation.

  • Minimal pruning needed overall—black mulberries naturally form a spreading canopy.

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  🍇 6. Harvesting

  • Season: Mid to late summer.

  • How: Shake ripe berries off onto a tarp or gently pick them. They're juicy and stain easily!

  • Tip: Mulberries don’t ripen all at once—harvest regularly over several weeks.

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  ⚠️ 7. Pests & Problems

  • Generally pest-resistant.

  • Watch for: Birds (they love the berries—netting helps), spider mites, or fungal leaf spots in humid areas.

  • Mulberries can stain surfaces—plant away from patios or walkways.

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  Bonus Tip:

  Black mulberries are long-lived and grow slowly compared to other types (like white mulberry). They can live for over 100 years and become majestic trees—so it's a great long-term addition to your garden!

🏺 Fun Facts

• Not the same as white mulberry (Morus alba), which is native to China and often used for feeding silkworms.

• Medicinal uses: Traditionally used for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-regulating properties.