Mulberries, or 'Shehtoot' as they are known in India, are incredibly nutrient-dense and easy to grow. Although most people believe that mulberries exclusively grow on trees, some types can also grow on plants and bear fruit successfully. We discuss how to cultivate it at home here.
There are several types of mulberries, such as red, black, and white mulberries. Additionally, it is advisable to purchase dwarf mulberry seeds if you have a tiny home garden because they may be cultivated in a small area and will germinate in pots.
Make sure the pot or container you choose is at least 18 inches deep so the roots may extend widely if you want to plant it on your balcony. Additionally, dig a hole that is roughly 6 inches deep if you plan to plant the seeds directly into the garden soil.
It is preferable to provide the plant with rich, organic soil so that it can thrive in limited areas. Additionally, Mulberry thrives on slightly acidic soil, so combine garden soil, well-rotted manure, organic compost, and cocopeat.
Beginning with a sapling is the ideal option for novices because it is easier to grow and maintain than starting from seed. Place the root ball in a hole dug in the ground that is just a little bit larger than it is, then fill it in with more dirt.
However, if you want to go all out and plant seeds, fill a container with dirt. After gently excavating the dirt for three to four inches, scatter the seeds all throughout. Next, sprinkle it with water, cover it with more soil, and mist it once more.
It's ideal to keep it covered to preserve moisture and spray it just a little bit during the first few days if it's being planted in a balcony planter. However, if the sapling has been kept upright in the ground, give it plenty of water, being careful not to soggy it.
In roughly 30 days, the seed will begin to germinate, and in two to three months, the sapling will begin to produce new leaves. Additionally, it's crucial to prune it frequently so that you may ensure the plant has adequate nutrients for the fruit by removing any extra leaves.
Now, this differs according on the variety and cultivation method. The mulberry plant can produce tiny fruits in as little as a year when produced from cuttings and saplings. However, when using seeds, it may take three to six years for the shrub to begin producing fruit.