Unlike most native fruit trees, the mulberry tree does not require any special pruning to bear fruit. Due to the relatively fast growth of approx. 40 cm per year, however, regular pruning of the tree is advisable.

How to properly prune your mulberry tree

The ideal time to prune your mulberry tree is spring, just before fruit forms. To begin, cut out any weak branches and shoots that are crisscrossing or growing too densely. If you have a grafted mulberry tree, then cut out all the wild shoots that grow out of the base, i.e. below the graft. Only then does the shaping begin.

With a topiary, you adapt your mulberry tree to its location and limit its growth. So mulberry trees are also well suited as a container plant. However, regular pruning is required for this. If this work becomes too tedious for you, you can still plant your mulberry tree outdoors years later.

In general, the mulberry grows more like a shrub. You can achieve a tree-like growth form by pruning appropriately in the first few years. Choose a strong shoot as the leading branch. It should be surrounded by several side shoots. Cut off all other shoots. A strong trunk will develop over the years.

Change the growth form

With the shrub-like growth form, the cut is relatively easy. Long shoots are shortened to a protruding eye. Also remove inward growing branches. Be careful not to remove too many branches. This applies above all to the red mulberry, which has a fascinating charisma with its bizarrely twisted branches.

Good reasons for a topiary:

  • Potted plants need regular pruning, otherwise they will “outgrow” their planter
  • Trees in the front yard or near the house should not be too big or too wide
  • a small garden should not be dominated by a single tree

tips and tricks

Mulberry trees are quite robust and tolerate almost any pruning. Since both old and young wood bear fruit, you can't really harm your mulberry tree if you do get the wrong branch. Have courage! The next time it works better.

Category:

Trees