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The mulberry tree - a winterproof exotic
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 will surely find the ideal eye-catcher for the home garden.
It is debatable how many species of the mulberry tree there are, because there are increasingly cultivated hybrids. In addition to some hybrid species occur in Germany mainly three species of mulberry tree:
While the first two species are hardy, the black mulberry should be protected from frost and cold wind. It grows best where wine can be grown. The white mulberry and the red mulberry are hardy, depending on the variety to minus 15 or 20 ° C.
How to protect your mulberry tree in winter
Even the hardy varieties of the mulberry tree should be protected in the first two to three years at high minus temperatures. A thick layer of twigs, straw or leaves should be enough or a few jute sacks. Remove the winter protection as soon as the temperature rises again to approximately +/- 0 ° C, thus preventing the formation of mold.
Container plants overwinter best in the house at temperatures around the freezing point. It should not be too warm, otherwise there is a risk that the mulberry tree will be affected by spider mites. If you do not have a suitable place in the house, then place the bucket in the garage or in your garden shed, possibly also on the south wall of your house.
Frost protection from below is used in potted plants with a thick polystyrene or wood panel. You can wrap the bucket itself with bubble wrap, but the plant with garden fleece, because it requires 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 bucket in the first few years, then you can bring it into the house for the winter.