Adding a mulberry tree to your backyard is such a game-changer! Not only do they produce delicious, aromatic fruit, but they also make for a stunning addition to your landscape. Just a heads-up: they can be a little sensitive to the cold during their first few years, so picking the right sunny spot is key to getting a great harvest.
Keep it Sunny and Warm
While we love them here, mulberries aren’t actually native to the States—they originally hail from Asia. Because of those roots, they thrive in warm climates (think wine country vibes). If you can find a sheltered spot in your garden, your tree will be happy as a clam.
Ideally, you want to plant your mulberry in full sun, though they can handle a bit of partial shade. A south-facing slope or a spot near a south-facing wall is perfect. Why? Because the wall or the ground acts like a giant heater, soaking up sun all day and radiating that warmth back to the tree at night. Plus, it gives them a nice break from the wind.
Watch Out for “Wet Feet”
The one thing a mulberry tree absolutely hates is “wet feet.” If your soil is super dense or heavy clay that holds onto water, you’re going to have a problem. Standing water is a death sentence for these trees. When you’re planting your mulberry tree, make sure the soil drains well. If your dirt is a bit stubborn, try mixing in some sand to loosen it up or install a drainage layer at the bottom of the hole.
You’ll also want to avoid drafty, wind-whipped areas. Icy winter winds can be brutal, often killing off the tips of the new branches. If you don’t have a protected spot, you might need to wrap smaller trees or shrubs in burlap or garden fleece during the coldest months to prevent frost damage.
The Perfect Natural Shade Tree
If you give a mulberry tree what it needs, it grows like a weed—sometimes up to 20 inches a year! Before you know it, you’ll have a majestic tree reaching 40 to 50 feet tall. Definitely keep that growth spurt in mind when you’re picking a location.
Because they grow so fast, they make incredible natural umbrellas. They’re perfect for shading a kids’ play area—not only do they provide cool relief from the sun, but the kids can snack on the ripe berries right off the branch. It’s a win-win!
