Introduction:
Morus australis, commonly known as Australian mulberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the family Moraceae. The plant is native to Australia and the neighboring islands, including Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. It is one of the three species of mulberry found in Australia, the other two being Morus alba and Morus nigra.
General Appearance:
Australian mulberry grows up to 10 meters tall, with a spread of about 5 meters. The tree has a dense and spreading canopy, and its leaves are large, serrated, and heart-shaped, measuring about 25 centimeters long and 20 centimeters wide. The leaves are green, but as they mature, they turn yellow or reddish-purple before dropping off in winter. The tree produces small greenish-white flowers that are inconspicuous and not showy. The fruit of the tree is a small, sweet, and edible berry that looks like a blackberry and is about 1 centimeter in size.
Common Names:
Australian mulberry is known by several common names, including Shahtoot, Tuti, Tutiya, and Shettate. In many parts of Australia, the plant is also referred to as the Bush Mulberry or Red Mulberry.
Uses:
The fruit of the Australian mulberry is edible and has a sweet taste, which is why the plant is often cultivated in home gardens and small orchards. Its leaves are also used to feed silkworms, which is why the plant is sometimes referred to as the Silkworm Mulberry. The tree's bark has been used historically for medicinal purposes, including the treatment of dysentery and diarrhea.
Light Conditions
Morus australis typically prefers full sun to partial shade, making it a good candidate for outdoor cultivation. However, excessive exposure to direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yield. It is recommended to provide shading during midday hours to prevent this from happening. In indoor settings, artificial lighting can be used to supplement natural light to promote optimum growth.
Temperature Requirements
Morus australis grows well in temperate climates with an average temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F). However, it can tolerate a wide temperature range and can survive temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) and as high as 40°C (104°F). During winter, the plant can become dormant and shed its leaves, but it will begin growing again when warmer temperatures return.
Soil Conditions
The soil should be well-draining and rich in nutrients to support healthy growth. The pH level should be between 5.5 and 7.5. Morus australis can adapt to a range of soil types, but prefers loamy or sandy soil that is slightly acidic. The addition of organic matter and compost can improve the soil's moisture retention and nutrient content, ensuring the plant receives the required nourishment. Avoid waterlogging the soil as this can lead to root rot which can severely damage the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Morus australis, also known as Australian mulberry, Chinese mulberry, or Shangri-La mulberry, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 12 meters tall. It prefers a warm climate with full sun exposure, well-drained soil, and pH between 6.0 to 7.0. You can propagate the plant through seeds, cuttings, or grafting, but it requires some patience and expertise. The best time to plant or transplant your Morus australis tree is in early spring when the soil is moist and warm. If you live in a cold region, grow the tree in a greenhouse or indoors in a well-lit room.
Watering Needs
Like most plants, Morus australis needs regular watering to establish its root system and grow healthily. Water the tree deeply once a week during the first growing season, and then reduce the frequency to every two weeks. However, do not overwater the tree, as it may cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Check the soil moisture level regularly by sticking your finger into the soil. If it feels dry beyond two inches, water the tree. During the dormant season, which is winter, reduce the watering frequency, and keep the soil slightly moist.
Fertilization
Morus australis loves fertile soil rich in organic matter, such as compost, manure, or leaf mold. Therefore, you can add these ingredients to the soil before planting the tree or as a top dressing once or twice a year. In addition, you can use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, or a slow-release fertilizer that lasts for six months or longer. Apply the fertilizer according to the label instructions, and avoid over-fertilizing the tree, as it may stimulate excessive leaf growth and reduce fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning Morus australis is essential to maintain its shape, remove damaged or diseased branches, and promote fruiting. You can prune the tree in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make the cut and avoid tearing or crushing the bark. Remove any dead, dry, or weak branches first, then cut back the top branches by one-third to one-fourth of their length. This will encourage the lateral branches to grow more vigorously and produce more fruits. Also, thin out the crowded branches and remove any suckers or water sprouts that grow from the base or the trunk of the tree.
Propagation of Morus australis
Morus australis, also known as the Chinese mulberry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. The plant is native to China and is commonly grown in Asia for its edible fruit. Morus australis can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Morus australis can be propagated by seeds, which are extracted from ripe fruit. The seeds need to be washed and dried before sowing. Pre-soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours can soften the seed coat and enhance germination rates. The seeds are then sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot should be kept in a warm and humid place with plenty of light. The seeds can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by Cuttings
Morus australis can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the plant's dormant season in late winter or early spring. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free branches that are 6 to 8 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix, and the pot is covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. After 4 to 6 weeks, the cutting should have developed roots and can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Morus australis can also be propagated by layering. Layering involves bending a flexible branch towards the ground and covering it with soil. The branch should be wounded and treated with rooting hormone before layering. The soil should be kept moist, and roots should start to develop within a few weeks. After 6 to 8 weeks, the new plant can be cut from the mother plant and planted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Overall, Morus australis can be propagated through various means, and each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Propagation by seeds is straightforward but can take longer, while propagation by cuttings and layering can produce clones of the parent plant faster.
Disease Management for Morus australis
Morus australis, commonly known as the Australian mulberry, is a hardy plant, yet it can still be affected by various diseases. It's crucial to manage these diseases to ensure the plant remains healthy and productive.
One of the most common diseases affecting Morus australis is powdery mildew. This disease manifests as a white powdery coating on the leaves and is caused by a fungus. To manage powdery mildew, ensure the plant has enough space for air circulation, avoid overhead watering and use fungicides if necessary.
Another significant disease in Morus australis is leaf spot disease, caused by a fungus. This disease manifests in brownish- purple spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot disease, prune affected branches and leaves, remove plant debris, and keep the area around the plant clean.
Pest Management for Morus australis
Aside from diseases, pests can also affect Morus australis. Here are some of the most common pests that can affect the plant:
One of the major pests that can affect Morus australis is the whitefly. Whiteflies are small, white insects that suck sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing and distortion. To manage whiteflies, you can wash them off using a strong jet of water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs to the plant.
Another common pest that can affect Morus australis is the Japanese beetle. These beetles feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind skeletonized leaves with only the veins remaining. To manage Japanese beetles, handpick them from the plant or use insecticides.
It's essential to monitor Morus australis regularly for signs of diseases and pests. Early detection and management can prevent significant damage and ensure the plant remains healthy and productive.
