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How to prune a mulberry tree? Advice and best practices

There is certainly no better pleasure than lounging under the plane trees on sunny summer days. So that the mulberry tree can provide a pleasant shady spot, it is advisable to prune it. Follow the guide on how to do it.

When to prune?

Finding its origins in the warm and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, in particular Western Asia, the Far East and North America, the mulberry tree thrives above all in the southern sun of France. It is appreciated for its ornamental character and offers a shady spot in summer thanks to its thick leaves. Its height can reach 15 meters high. The tree also prefers to grow in warm, sunny places protected from the wind. Normally, it is not necessary to prune it, especially if you want to preserve its magnificent natural appearance. However, so that it is not too invasive or if you want a shaded area in a specific place, the operation is still possible. It will also prevent the leaves from falling excessively and staining the ground. This pruning is done during vegetative dormancy, when the sap no longer flows. The ideal time is therefore in the fall, before the leaves fall, or in winter, when the leaves have all fallen.

Techniques for pruning a mulberry tree?

After equipping yourself with pruning shears and a saw, start the pruning operation. This can be carried out in two ways:by letting the mulberry follow its natural shape or by pruning it into an arbor.

For the first method, all you have to do is eliminate the drooping branches in order to be able to move under the tree. If there is dead or diseased wood, cut it. Ditto for the branches which tend to intertwine.

With the second method, you will give an arbor shape to the mulberry tree. It will be necessary to prune each year, between January and March, when the leaves begin to fall and take on a yellow color. Take a good look at the habit of the tree first. Then, tackle sticking up branches and dead branches. Do not touch the horizontal branches, however, as they will be needed to provide the desired shade. On the carpenters, if you notice the appearance of small branches, you will also have to get rid of them. Eliminate only the most fragile and keep those that seem vigorous. Another thing:it is necessary to shorten the branches at least once a year. A bevel cut will be recommended here.

Regularly, be sure to pick up the branches and leaves that fall, because as explained above, they rot and leave ugly stains.

In the event that you lack methods or you simply do not have time to prune your mulberry tree, do not hesitate to call on the services of a professional. This will prevent a bad cut that will make the tree unsightly or prevent it from growing properly. Severe pruning prevents fruiting. Asking a specialist will avoid the development of diseases due to the use of non-disinfected materials. Take the opportunity to listen to the advice of the pruner on the right maintenance gestures for your mulberry tree.