✂️ 6. Pruning and Maintenance
Mulberries respond well to pruning, which helps them stay compact and productive.
- When: Late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- How: Remove dead, crossing, or weak branches, and shorten the tips to encourage branching.
- Goal: Maintain a rounded shape and allow good air circulation.
👉 Bonus tip: Light pruning after harvest encourages the tree to produce more side shoots — and more fruit next year!
🍇 7. Flowering and Fruiting
Black mulberries typically flower in spring, producing small greenish catkins that turn into berries.
- The fruits start green, then turn red, and finally deep purple-black when ripe.
- Harvest them gently as they stain easily — and enjoy them fresh, in jams, or in desserts!
🐛 8. Common Problems and Solutions
- Yellow leaves: Often due to overwatering — let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
- No fruiting: The tree may be too young or not getting enough sunlight.
- Pests: Watch for aphids and spider mites; treat them with neem oil spray or insecticidal soap.
🪵 9. Repotting
Every 2–3 years, repot your mulberry to refresh the soil and give roots more room to grow.
- Choose a pot one size larger than the previous one.
- Trim 10–15% of the roots before replanting to control the size and stimulate new growth.
🌺 10. Harvest and Enjoy!
A healthy potted black mulberry can produce up to 3–5 kg (6–10 lbs) of fruit per season once mature. The berries are rich in vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants, making them a delicious and healthy homegrown treat.
🌿 Final Tips
✅ Place your pot in full sun.
✅ Keep the soil rich and moist.
✅ Prune regularly to encourage branching.
✅ Protect the plant from frost and strong winds.
With a little care and patience, your potted black mulberry will reward you with generous crops year after year — a true symbol of abundance in your home garden! 🌳🍇
