Although the mulberry tree, which is related to the figs, comes from the subtropics, it is considered hardy. With a special growth habit or extra large fruits, you are sure to find the ideal eye-catcher for your home garden.
Is a mulberry tree hardy?
Mulberry trees can be hardy, especially Morus alba (White Mulberry) and Morus rubra (Red Mulberry). They are frost-resistant down to minus 15 or 20 °C. The Morus nigra (black mulberry) needs protection from cold and frost. Young trees should also be protected from extreme sub-zero temperatures in the first few years.
It is controversial how many species of mulberry tree there actually are, because hybrids are increasingly being cultivated. In addition to some hybrid species, there are mainly three species of mulberry tree found in Germany:
- Morus alba, the white mulberry
- Morus rubra, the red mulberry
- Morus nigra, the black mulberry
While the first two types are hardy, the black mulberry should be protected from frost and cold wind. It thrives best where wine can also be grown. The white mulberry tree and the red mulberry are hardy, depending on the variety, down to minus 15 or 20 °C.
How to protect your mulberry tree in winter
The winter-hardy varieties of the mulberry tree should also be protected in the first two to three years when temperatures are very low. A thick layer of brushwood, straw or leaves should be enough, or a few jute sacks. Remove the winter protection as soon as the temperature rises to around +/- 0 °C again to prevent the formation of mold.
Potted plants overwinter best indoors at temperatures around freezing point. It shouldn't be too warm, otherwise there is a risk that the mulberry tree will be attacked by spider mites. If you don't have a suitable place in the house, then place the bucket in the garage or in your garden shed, or perhaps on the south wall of your house.
A thick polystyrene or wooden plate serves as frost protection from below for potted plants (€32.00 on Amazon). You can wrap the pot itself with bubble wrap, but wrap the plant with garden fleece because it needs air.
Tips & Tricks
Make sure that your mulberry tree gets enough liquid even in winter, otherwise it can dry out. Plant your mulberry tree in a container for the first few years, then you can bring it indoors to overwinter.
