Plant Profile

MulberryMorus

Mulberries are fascinating fruit trees with a long history. Their sweet fruits are a valuable addition to any garden.

BerriesTree fruitMulberry family
Calendar
Mulberry (Morus): plant portrait - Berries, Mulberry family, Harvest June - September
Mulberry: plant portrait. harvest: June - September.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Pruning
Indoor sowingPlanting outdoorsHarvestPruning

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bedContainerBalcony

Good neighbors

ComfreyWild Garlic

Avoid

Walnut

Indoor & direct sowing

Mulberry: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

Sowing under glass at 20°C; cold stratification often necessary for Morus nigra.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing outdoors uncommon; propagation from saplings preferred.

Seed depth0.5 - 1 cm
Germination temp18 - 22 °C
Germination time14 - 42 days
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorYes
Cold germinatorYes
Stratification neededYes
Pre-soaking recommendedYes

Planting & site

Mulberry: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Spring planting recommended for young trees in frost-prone areas.

Plant spacing400 - 800 cm
Row spacing500 - 1000 cm
Plants per m²0.01 - 0.04 per m²
Bed widthfrom 200 cm

Temperature & frost

Mulberry: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 10 °C
Optimal temperature18 - 28 °C
Max. heatup to 40 °C
Soil temperature15 - 20 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveYes
Heat tolerancehigh
Cold tolerancehigh

Water & nutrients

Mulberry: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesEstablishment phase, Fruit development
Watering methodWater only at the base
Droughtlow
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needmedium feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

Mulberry: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 30 l; Recommended: from 90 l; Diameter: from 45 cm; Depth: from 50 cm
SupportYes; 150 - 250 cm
Height300 - 1500 cm
Width300 - 1000 cm
Root depth80 - 200 cm
Root spread400 - 1200 cm
Yield5 - 50 kg

Year plan

Mulberry Calendar

Plants

From June to September, fruits ripen sequentially, offering a long harvest period.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Pruning

Recurring tasks

Formative pruning for young trees, removal of dead or diseased wood. Only perform on frost-free days.January - February
Winter pruning should be done before sap rise to avoid heavy bleeding. For Morus nigra, very late winter pruning (just before bud break) or summer...
Main HarvestJune - August
Light corrective and thinning pruning after harvest to limit growth and promote air circulation. Removal of water shoots.July - August
Summer pruning is less stressful for the tree and reduces bleeding. Ideal for size control and shaping.

Relevant now

June

  • No additional single task

Next up

July

  • No additional single task

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

January

Quiet month

February

No additional single task

March

No additional single task

April

No additional single task

May

Quiet month

June

No additional single task

July

No additional single task

August

No additional single task

September

No additional single task

October

No additional single task

November

No additional single task

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Mulberry Flowering & pollination

Flowering period

May to June

Flower type

Inconspicuous catkins

Self-fertility

self-fertile

Pollinator needed

no

Overview

Mulberries are primarily wind-pollinated, but insects can also contribute to pollination. Many varieties are self-fertile.

Notes

Mulberry trees are mostly monoecious (male and female flowers on the same plant). Some species are dioecious.

Pruning & care

Mulberry Pruning & care

Pruning type

Mulberries generally require little pruning. The focus is on training young trees and maintenance pruning for older specimens.

Pruning timing

Winter

Formative pruning for young trees, removal of dead or diseased wood. Only perform on frost-free days. Winter pruning should be done before sap rise to avoid heavy bleeding. For Morus nigra, very late winter pruning (just before bud break) or summer pruning is often better.

Summer

Light corrective and thinning pruning after harvest to limit growth and promote air circulation. Removal of water shoots. Summer pruning is less stressful for the tree and reduces bleeding. Ideal for size control and shaping.

Remove

Dead, diseased, or damaged woodCrossing or rubbing branchesWater shoots and suckers from the base/rootstockInward-growing branchesBranches that are too dense and crowd the canopy

Preserve

Healthy, well-spaced scaffold branchesFruiting wood (especially for Morus nigra, which fruits on older wood)Branches that contribute to the desired canopy shape

Avoid

Heavy pruning in late winter or early spring, as mulberries 'bleed' heavily (lose sap).Excessive removal of old wood on Morus nigra, as this can reduce yield.Pruning in wet weather to minimize the risk of fungal infections.

Tools and hygiene

Clean and disinfect pruning tools before and after use to prevent disease transmission.

Companion guide

Mulberry Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

ComfreyWild Garlic

Avoid

Walnut

Use & storage

Mulberry Use & storage

Harvest

Fruits ripen sequentially; harvest by shaking onto laid-out tarps.

Storage

Very short-term fresh, well-preserved when processed

Storage life

Only a few days fresh, significantly longer when frozen or processed.

Flavor

Sweet, slightly tart, aromatic; flavor varies from mild (white mulberry) to intense (black mulberry) depending on the variety.

Harvest

Fruits ripen sequentially; harvest by shaking onto laid-out tarps.

Culinary uses

Fresh consumption (directly from the tree, in fruit salads)Desserts (cakes, tarts, ice cream, sorbets)Jams, jellies, and preservesJuices, smoothies, and syrupsDried fruits as snacks or in muesli

Processing

Freezing (whole fruits or puree)Jams and jelliesJuices and syrupsDryingWines and liqueurs

After harvest

Mulberries are very delicate and spoil quickly. They should be refrigerated immediately after harvest and consumed or processed within a few days.

Notes

Mulberries are versatile and a healthy addition to many dishes. They can also be used to make vinegar or wine.

Edibility & safety

Mulberry Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Ripe fruits
Caution parts:Unripe fruits, Leaves (not recommended for human consumption), Milky sap (in unripe fruits and other plant parts)
Raw consumption:Ripe fruits are excellent for raw consumption.

Safety notes

Unripe mulberries contain a milky sap that can be mildly laxative and cause stomach upset. Ripe fruits are harmless.

Animal safety

This plant is not simply safe or unsafe for animals. 14 animal types have restrictions, so quantity, access, and plant part matter.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap (in unripe fruits and other plant parts)

Risk factors

Ingestion of unripe fruits, Ingestion of leaves or other plant parts, Consumption of large quantities

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea (mild laxative effect)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Ripe mulberries are considered non-toxic for dogs and can be offered in moderation as a treat. However, unripe fruits, leaves, and the milky sap can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms are generally mild and not life-threatening.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of large quantities (even ripe fruits)

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect (from unripe fruits)

observe

Ripe mulberries are generally safe for cats and can be given occasionally as a treat. Unripe fruits and other plant parts can cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruit, Consumption of leaves, Consumption of milky sap

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberry fruits are safe for rabbits as an occasional treat. Unripe fruits, leaves, and the milky sap can cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruit, Consumption of leaves

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberries are safe for guinea pigs and can be given in moderation as a treat. Unripe fruits and leaves should be avoided as they can cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruit, Consumption of leaves, Consumption of milky sap

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberries are suitable as an occasional treat for hamsters. Unripe fruits and other plant parts can cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits or leaves

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberries are safe for budgies as an occasional treat. Unripe fruits and leaves can cause stomach upset.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of leaves

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

usually no action needed

Ripe mulberry fruits are generally safe for horses and can be fed as an occasional treat. Unripe fruits and leaves may cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of leaves, Overconsumption of ripe fruits

Symptoms

Stomach upset, Diarrhea

observe

Ripe mulberry fruits are generally safe for chickens and can be offered as treats. Unripe fruits and leaves may cause stomach upset. Overconsumption of ripe fruits can lead to diarrhea.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of leaves

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

usually no action needed

Ripe mulberries are suitable for ducks as an occasional treat. Unripe fruits and leaves may cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of leaves, Overconsumption of ripe fruits

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberry fruits are safe for geese in moderation. Unripe fruits and leaves can cause stomach upset. Quantity should be limited to avoid digestive issues.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of leaves, Overconsumption of ripe fruits

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberries are generally safe for sheep and can be offered as an occasional treat or part of the diet. Unripe fruits and leaves may cause stomach upset. Overconsumption of ripe fruits can lead to digestive issues.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

Ripe fruits, Leaves (in moderation)

Unripe fruits, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruit, Consumption of milky sap

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberry fruits are safe for goats and can be offered as treats or a supplement to the normal diet. Unripe fruits and the milky sap can cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Leaves are palatable in moderation.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruits, Consumption of leaves

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberry fruits are safe for cattle and can be offered as an occasional treat or supplement to the normal feed ration. Unripe fruits and leaves may cause stomach upset.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

Ripe fruits

Unripe fruits, Leaves, Milky sap

Risk factors

Consumption of unripe fruit, Consumption of leaves

Symptoms

Stomach upset, mild laxative effect

observe

Ripe mulberry fruits are suitable for pigs as an occasional treat. Unripe fruits and leaves may cause stomach upset.

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

selected parts only

Urgency

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Saving seed

Mulberry Saving seed

Seed saving

yes

Seed viability

1 - 2 years

Notes

Propagation from seeds is possible for mulberries but is less common in home gardens than vegetative propagation (cuttings, grafting) to ensure true-to-type plants.

Practical tips

Mulberry Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Planting in too small a location or too close to paths (fruit stains).Heavy pruning in spring, leading to severe 'bleeding'.

Success pattern

Choosing a sunny, sheltered location with deep soil.Good establishment in the first few years with adequate water and mulch.Minimal but targeted pruning for shaping and health.

High-impact tips

A thick layer of mulch under the tree reduces water needs and promotes soil life.Whitewashing the trunk in autumn protects young trees from frost cracks.

Grower observations

Mulberries are surprisingly adaptable and tolerate extended dry periods well once established.The fruits are a magnet for birds, so netting is essential if you want to harvest them yourself.

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Mulberry (Morus): plant portrait - Berries, Mulberry family, Harvest June - September
Mulberry (Morus): whole plant for plant portrait - Berries, Mulberry family, Harvest June - September

Health

Pests, Diseases

Pests

Bark beetle

Exit holes in the bark, wilting symptoms in weakened trees.

Fall webworm

Webbing nests in branches, defoliation of leaves.

Diseases

Leaf spot disease

Dark, sunken spots on leaves, premature leaf drop.

Bacterial blight

Black spots on shoot tips, dieback of young twigs.

Deficiencies

Iron deficiency (Chlorosis)

Yellow leaves with green veins, especially on very calcareous soils.

Plant health

Bark beetleLeaf spot diseaseBacterial cankerIron deficiencyBird damage

Diagnosis help

Mulberry Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Scale insectsSpider mitesCaterpillars

Disease groups

Powdery mildewRoot rot in waterlogged conditions

Prevention

Apply whitewash in late autumn.Sunny, airy location for fast drying of leaves.Avoid bark injuries.

Diagnosis

In case of wilting, first check soil moisture and root condition (suspicion of waterlogging).

Cultural prevention

Prevention of waterloggingPruning only during dry weather

Monitoring

Weekly pest checks in May/JuneObservation of leaf color

First response

Spray with water jet for aphidsRemove affected plant parts

Diagnostic rules

Leaves turn yellow, veins stay green

Possible causes: Iron deficiency, High pH blockage

  • Test soil pH
  • Check for soil compaction

FAQ

When do mulberries bear fruit?

Mulberries typically start bearing fruit 2-3 years after planting, with full yields on mature trees.

How do I prune a mulberry tree?

Mulberries require minimal pruning. Focus on formative pruning for young trees and light maintenance pruning for older ones, preferably in summer after harvest or in late winter on frost-free days. Avoid heavy pruning in spring due to sap bleeding.

Can mulberries be grown in pots?

Yes, dwarf varieties like 'Mojo Berry' are well-suited for container cultivation, requiring a large pot (min. 30L) and good drainage.

Are mulberry fruits messy?

Yes, ripe mulberries can stain pavements and clothes heavily. It's advisable to plant them away from paths or use tarps during harvest.

Are all parts of the mulberry tree edible?

Only ripe fruits are recommended for human consumption. Unripe fruits and other plant parts contain a milky sap that can be mildly laxative.

Is Mulberry safe for Dog?

Mulberry is classified as selected parts only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Ripe mulberries are considered non-toxic for dogs and can be offered in moderation as a treat. However, unripe fruits, leaves, and the milky sap can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms are generally mild and not life-threatening.

Is Mulberry safe for Cat?

Mulberry is classified as selected parts only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Ripe mulberries are generally safe for cats and can be given occasionally as a treat. Unripe fruits and other plant parts can cause stomach upset.

Is Mulberry safe for Rabbit?

Mulberry is classified as selected parts only for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Ripe mulberry fruits are safe for rabbits as an occasional treat. Unripe fruits, leaves, and the milky sap can cause stomach upset.

Is Mulberry safe for Guinea pig?

Mulberry is classified as selected parts only for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Ripe mulberries are safe for guinea pigs and can be given in moderation as a treat. Unripe fruits and leaves should be avoided as they can cause stomach upset.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-14

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-14

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Maulbeeren

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-14

  4. English Wikipedia: Morus (plant)

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-14

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