About this variety
About white mulberry
Morus alba is the accepted botanical name for white mulberry, a deciduous tree in the Moraceae family. Kew records the species as native to central China and associated primarily with the temperate biome. Despite the common name, fruit colour in this species can vary.
Sowing guide
- Use a fine, clean seed-starting mix in a shallow container with good drainage.
- Sow the small seeds on the surface or cover only very lightly.
- Keep the mix evenly moist and provide bright, indirect light.
- If a batch remains dormant, a period of cool, moist stratification may help; check the tray rather than allowing it to dry completely.
Natural dormancy and seed-lot history affect timing. Do not discard a clean, sound tray too quickly. Label the sowing with its treatment and date.
Seedling care
After emergence, give seedlings good air movement and gradually stronger light. Thin or pot them on when they can be handled without crushing the stem. Water deeply enough to moisten the root zone, then allow excess water to drain.
Seed-grown mulberries do not reproduce every characteristic of a selected parent tree. Treat each seedling as an individual. Plan for a woody deciduous tree and confirm local suitability before planting outside, because Morus alba can naturalise in some regions.
Seed note: Seeds are living material. Germination speed and percentage vary with seed age, temperature, moisture and local growing conditions. Keep a small record of sowing date and treatment so you can adjust the next batch.
