Mulberry trees are fast-growing, productive fruit trees that can be grown in many climates. While often propagated by cuttings or grafting, it is also possible to grow a mulberry tree from seed at home. Starting mulberries from seed takes patience, but watching your tree grow from seedling to fruiting tree can be incredibly rewarding.
In this article we will walk through the process of growing a mulberry tree from seed covering how to collect and store seeds, germinate them, care for seedlings, and transplant into the garden. Follow these steps and in just a few years you can have your own productive mulberry tree grown all from seed.
Collecting and Storing Mulberry Seeds
The first step is collecting ripe mulberry fruits when in season to harvest the seeds from them. Look for fully ripe, dark colored mulberries that have fallen from the tree. Unripe light-colored fruits may not contain viable seeds.
Once you’ve collected enough ripe mulberries, mash them gently to separate the seeds from the pulp. Rinse the seeds under running water in a sieve to clean off the fruit pulp. Pick out any debris, leaving just the clean mulberry seeds.
Spread the cleaned seeds in a single layer on paper towels or screen. Allow them to dry for 1-2 weeks in a well-ventilated spot out of direct sunlight. When thoroughly dry, store the seeds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a year until ready to plant.
Stratifying Mulberry Seeds
Before planting, mulberry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. This mimics the cold of winter they would experience naturally.
To stratify seeds:
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Place seeds between damp paper towels and put in a sealed plastic bag.
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Store the bagged seeds in the refrigerator for 3-4 months.
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Check periodically and remoisten the paper towels if needed.
The cold period cracks the tough outer seed coat, allowing moisture to penetrate so the seed can germinate when planted.
Planting Stratified Mulberry Seeds
Once properly stratified, the seeds are ready for planting. This is done in late winter or early spring.
Fill small pots or cell packs with seed starting mix. Moisten the soil before planting. Poke holes about 1⁄4 inch deep in the soil. Place 2-3 seeds in each hole and lightly cover them with soil.
Water gently to moisten the soil without washing out the seeds. Put the seeded containers somewhere warm, around 70°F. Keep the soil moist but not soggy as the seeds germinate.
Caring for Mulberry Seedlings
In 1-2 months, the mulberry seeds should begin to sprout. Thin each cell or pot to just one strong seedling. Let the seedlings grow on undisturbed under lights or a sunny window until they have 4-6 true leaves.
Then transplant the young mulberry trees into larger 3-4 inch pots using potting soil. Bury the stem deeper so just the leaves are sticking out. This encourages good root growth. Water thoroughly after transplanting.
As the seedlings grow, move them to progressively larger pots as needed to accommodate the roots. Harden them off slowly over a week or two before transplanting into the garden.
Transplanting Mulberry Seedlings Outside
The young mulberry trees are ready for transplanting into their permanent spot in the garden after the last frost when weather has warmed up, usually in late spring.
Choose a site with full sun or light partial shade and fertile, well-draining soil. Dig a hole the depth of the root ball and 2-3 times as wide.
Carefully remove the tree from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground. Fill in around the tree with soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets.
Water thoroughly after planting and cover the soil with 2-3 inches of organic mulch. Stake the tree if needed to stabilize it. Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer.
Ongoing Mulberry Tree Care
With regular watering and proper care, the young mulberry tree will establish within 1-2 years. Over time, prune for an open shape that allows sunlight penetration and air circulation.
The seed-grown tree will take 5-10 years to begin fruiting. Enjoy watching your mulberry tree grow over the seasons until it matures and provides a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy mulberries. With some patience and proper care, you can grow a productive mulberry tree from seed.
Best Strategy for Growing Mulberry from Seed
FAQ
How long does it take to grow a mulberry tree from seed?
Can you grow a mulberry tree from a mulberry?
Are mulberry trees easy to grow?
How do you grow a mulberry tree?
Mulberries can grow into large trees, up to 10m, which make them great shade trees, but if you don’t have the space, look for dwarf varieties, which can grow up to 5m. Be aware though – the fruit can stain, so grow away from paths and cars. Choose a sunny spot with well drained soil.
Do mulberries grow from seed?
Mulberries also grow readily from seed, so you’ll undoubtedly have more weeding to do in the years to come. When it comes to woodpeckers, here’s what you can do to keep them from becoming a nuisance or a threat to your trees. Ginkgo ( Ginkgo biloba) is a great type of tree to have in your yard — if it’s male.
Do mulberry seeds need to be soaked before planting?
Mulberry Seed. Mulberry Seeds Are Black In Color. They need to be soaked in water before planting them in the soil. The soaking process will increase the chances of germination. However, you should not soak the seeds for too long as it may damage the seeds. Mulberry Tree Growing Time. After planting, mulberry trees need to be watered regularly.
