Here's a guide on how to grow White Mulberries from seeds:
Materials Needed:
White Mulberry seeds
Well-draining potting mix
Small pots or seed trays
Plastic wrap or a humidity dome
Watering can or spray bottle
Grow lights or a sunny windowsill
Fertilizer (balanced, suitable for fruiting trees)
Outdoor garden space (if transplanting outdoors)
Procedure:
Cold Stratification (Optional):
White Mulberry seeds may benefit from cold stratification to break dormancy. Place the seeds in a damp paper towel, seal them in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks.
Potting Mix:
Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for tree seedlings. Mulberries prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Planting Seeds:
Plant the White Mulberry seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in small pots or seed trays filled with the potting mix. Place one or two seeds per pot.
Covering Seeds:
Cover the pots or trays with plastic wrap or use a humidity dome to create a warm and humid environment for germination. This helps maintain moisture during the initial stages.
Germination:
Place the pots or trays in a warm location or under grow lights. White Mulberry seeds typically germinate within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings emerge, remove the cover.
Providing Light:
Ensure that the seedlings receive plenty of light. If growing indoors, provide them with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily or use grow lights.
Transplanting:
When the White Mulberry seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden. Maintain proper spacing.
Outdoor Planting:
If transplanting outdoors, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Mulberry trees are adaptable to various soil types but prefer slightly acidic conditions.
Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Mulberry trees appreciate regular watering, but they don't tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Fertilization:
Use a balanced fertilizer suitable for fruiting trees. Follow the recommended application rates on the fertilizer package. Fertilize during the growing season.
Mulching:
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the young mulberry tree to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning (Optional):
Prune the young mulberry tree as needed to shape it and encourage a strong, well-branched structure.