The Mulberry tree or bush (Morus spp) is a versatile and hardy tree that can be grown in a food forest in central Florida. It is known for its delicious and nutritious fruit that can be eaten fresh or used for making jams, jellies, and wine. There are several varieties of mulberry trees, including both native and non-native varieties. The black mulberry, red mulberry, and white mulberry are generally how the varieties are broken up. Black mulberry trees produce the sweetest fruit and are most commonly grown in Europe. Red mulberry trees are native to North America and produce fruit with a rich flavor. White mulberry trees are native to China and produce a fruit that is less sweet than black or red mulberries.Florida native varieties include the red mulberry (Morus rubra) which are well-suited to the growing conditions in central Florida. The dwarf everbearing is a type of red mulberry that remains a smaller shrub type growing pattern.
When planting mulberry trees in your food forest, it’s important to choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun. Mulberry trees can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but they prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the tree’s root ball and plant it at the same depth it was previously growing. Space the trees about at least 15 feet and up to 20-30 feet apart, depending on the variety, to allow for proper growth and fruit production.
Mulberry trees are relatively low-maintenance and do not require frequent watering or fertilization once they are established. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the moisture level of the soil during the first year after planting, as young trees need consistent moisture to establish their root systems. An established mulberry tree can tolerate dry spells, but a young tree needs regular watering.
Mulberry trees can fruit the first year although it may only be a handful, but the following year, especially if pruned correctly, it will produce in larger volume. Some nurseries sell trees that will likely result in significant fruit the first year. This is also in my top three fruit trees to put into a food forest or edible landscape early. The fruit is ready to harvest when it turns dark purple or black, usually around late spring to early summer, depending on the variety and the weather conditions. The fruit can be picked by hand or with a fruit picker.
In addition to its delicious fruit, the mulberry tree also provides other benefits for a food forest. The tree’s leaves are also edible, and are sometimes used in super nutritious teas or as a leafy green in salads. The tree also provides shade and habitat for wildlife.
Mulberry trees are a great addition to a food forest in central Florida. They are hardy and easy to care for, and produce a delicious and nutritious fruit. I have abused a number of them quite a bit and they still come back to life. I even removed one from a pile that was set to be burned, trimmed the roots, potted it up, then sold it for $200 after bringing it back to life. Florida native varieties such as the red mulberry and the white mulberry are well-suited to the growing conditions in central Florida. These trees are low-maintenance and can produce fruit relatively quickly after planting.