Buy Mulberry Plant: Best Varieties & Where To Find Them

Leana Rogers Salamah
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Buy Mulberry Plant: Best Varieties & Where To Find Them

Are you looking to add a mulberry tree to your garden? Mulberry plants offer delicious fruit, attractive foliage, and shade. But with various types and places to buy them, finding the perfect tree can be overwhelming. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about buying mulberry plants, including the best varieties, where to buy them, and essential tips for success.

Why Choose a Mulberry Plant?

Before diving into where to buy mulberry plants, let's explore why they're a great addition to any garden:

  • Delicious Fruit: Mulberries are sweet and juicy, perfect for fresh eating, jams, and pies.
  • Fast Growth: Mulberry trees grow quickly, providing shade and fruit sooner than many other fruit trees.
  • Adaptability: They are adaptable to various soil types and climates.
  • Wildlife Attraction: Mulberries attract birds and other wildlife, adding life to your garden.

Best Mulberry Varieties to Buy

Choosing the right variety is crucial for success. Here are some top choices:

1. Morus Alba ‘White Mulberry’

The white mulberry is known for its fast growth and adaptability. The fruit is typically white or light pink and has a mild flavor. It's an excellent choice if you want a tree that grows quickly and provides ample shade.

2. Morus Rubra ‘Red Mulberry’

Native to North America, the red mulberry produces dark red to almost black fruit with a rich, sweet flavor. It's a favorite for making jams and jellies. Red mulberries are also more resistant to pests and diseases.

3. Morus Nigra ‘Black Mulberry’

The black mulberry is prized for its large, juicy, and intensely flavored fruit. It is less cold-hardy than other varieties but thrives in warmer climates. The black mulberry is an excellent choice if you prioritize flavor.

4. Morus ‘Illinois Everbearing’

This hybrid variety is known for its extended fruiting season, producing berries over several weeks. The fruit is dark purple and has a sweet-tart taste. Illinois Everbearing is a reliable choice for consistent fruit production. Ryder Cup 2025: Early Picks & Predictions

5. Morus ‘Pakistan’

The Pakistan mulberry is known for its exceptionally long fruit, which can grow up to 4 inches. The berries are sweet and juicy, and the tree is relatively compact, making it suitable for smaller gardens.

Where to Buy Mulberry Plants

Now that you know the best varieties, where can you buy mulberry plants? Here are several options:

1. Local Nurseries

Local nurseries are a great place to buy mulberry plants. You can inspect the trees in person, ask questions, and get advice from knowledgeable staff. Nurseries often carry varieties well-suited to your local climate.

2. Online Nurseries

Online nurseries offer a wide selection of mulberry plants, often including rare or hard-to-find varieties. They ship directly to your door, making it convenient to expand your garden. Some popular online nurseries include:

  • Fast Growing Trees: Offers a variety of mulberry trees with detailed descriptions and growing information.
  • Nature Hills Nursery: Provides a wide selection of fruit trees, including several mulberry varieties.
  • Gurney’s Seed & Nursery Co.: Carries a range of mulberry trees, including the popular Illinois Everbearing variety.

3. Big Box Stores

Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's often carry mulberry plants, especially during the spring planting season. While the selection may be limited, they can be a convenient option for common varieties.

4. Fruit Tree Sales and Exchanges

Local fruit tree sales and exchanges are excellent places to find unique varieties and support local growers. These events often feature rare and heirloom trees not available elsewhere.

What to Consider When Buying Mulberry Plants

Before making a purchase, consider these factors:

1. Variety

Choose a variety suited to your climate and preferences. Consider fruit flavor, size, and cold hardiness. NFL Power Rankings: Who's On Top? Your Weekly Guide

2. Tree Size and Age

Mulberry trees are available in various sizes, from small saplings to mature trees. Consider the size of your planting space and how quickly you want fruit.

3. Rootstock

Some mulberry trees are grafted onto specific rootstocks, which can affect their size, disease resistance, and fruit production. Ask the seller about the rootstock used.

4. Tree Health

Inspect the tree for signs of disease or pests. Look for healthy foliage, a strong trunk, and well-developed roots.

5. Price

Mulberry plant prices vary depending on the variety, size, and seller. Compare prices from different sources to find the best deal.

Tips for Planting and Growing Mulberry Trees

Once you've bought your mulberry plant, follow these tips for successful planting and growth:

1. Choose the Right Location

Plant your mulberry tree in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Mulberry trees need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

2. Prepare the Soil

Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Plant Properly

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen any circling roots. Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.

4. Water Regularly

Water your mulberry tree regularly, especially during dry periods. Newly planted trees need more frequent watering.

5. Fertilize

Fertilize your mulberry tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the package instructions for application rates.

6. Prune

Prune your mulberry tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and shape the tree. Pruning also encourages fruit production.

Common Issues and How to Address Them

Mulberry trees are generally hardy, but they can encounter some issues:

1. Pests

Common pests include spider mites, scale, and Japanese beetles. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.

2. Diseases

Mulberry trees can be susceptible to diseases like leaf spot and canker. Ensure good air circulation and prune away affected branches.

3. Messy Fruit

Mulberries can drop fruit, creating a mess on the ground. Plant your tree away from walkways and patios, or choose a non-fruiting variety if this is a concern.

4. Birds

Birds love mulberries, so you may need to protect your fruit with netting if they become a problem.

FAQ

1. Where is the best place to buy a mulberry tree?

The best place to buy a mulberry tree depends on your needs. Local nurseries offer personalized advice and locally adapted varieties. Online nurseries provide a wide selection, while big box stores are convenient for common varieties.

2. How much do mulberry trees cost?

Mulberry tree prices vary from $30 for a small sapling to over $200 for a mature tree. Prices depend on the variety, size, and seller.

3. Are mulberry trees easy to grow?

Yes, mulberry trees are relatively easy to grow. They are adaptable to various conditions and require minimal care once established.

4. How fast do mulberry trees grow?

Mulberry trees grow quickly, often adding several feet of growth per year. Some varieties can reach maturity in just a few years.

5. When is the best time to plant a mulberry tree?

The best time to plant a mulberry tree is in the spring or fall. This gives the tree time to establish its roots before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

6. What are the different types of mulberries?

The main types of mulberries are white mulberry (Morus alba), red mulberry (Morus rubra), and black mulberry (Morus nigra). Each has unique characteristics and fruit flavors.

7. How long does it take for a mulberry tree to produce fruit?

Mulberry trees can start producing fruit in 2-3 years, but some may take longer. Grafted trees often fruit sooner than seedlings.

Conclusion

Buying a mulberry plant is an excellent way to add delicious fruit and shade to your garden. By choosing the right variety, sourcing from a reputable seller, and following proper planting and care guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of these wonderful trees for years to come. Whether you opt for a classic red mulberry or an exotic Pakistan variety, your garden will thank you for the addition. Lions Playoff Chances: Analyzing Their Path To The Postseason

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