Mulberry

Common Name: Mulberry

Large, stunning trees belonging to the same family as fig. Faster growing White (leaves used for silkworm larvae) compared to slower growing black producing the larger, sweeter clusters of fruit.

Both grow in this area and can handle a variety of soils, as long as they are reasonably deep and well drained.  Trees can be pruned similar to an apple – open vase and they require watering until well established. They can also be grown in pots (dwarf form) so they’re easier to protect from birds.

Flowering takes place over many weeks and fruit ripens from early Spring onwards in Sunshine Coast.

Apart from birds eating the fruit a common disease affecting leaves during wet weather is Mulberry Leaf Spot. Bordeaux Spray can be used only after leaf fall up until bud burst. For 10 litres dissolve 100g copper sulphate with hot water in a plastic bucket, then pour into sprayer 3/4 filled with cold water. Now mix 100g hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) with a small amount of water to make a slurry and add to your copper sulphate solution. Stir and add water to make 10 litres. Add 50ml white oil to assist with sticking to leaves. Stir constantly to avoid nozzle blockage.