Description of Morus japonica Audib.
Morus japonica Audib. is a small deciduous tree that is commonly referred to as the Japanese mulberry tree. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is native to East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China.
Common Names
The tree is known by various common names such as Japanese mulberry, Chinese mulberry, Himalayan mulberry, and Silkworm mulberry.
General Appearance
Morus japonica Audib. typically grows to a height of about 10 to 15 feet with a spread of 8 to 10 feet. The tree has a dense oval-shaped crown with a smooth grayish-brown bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate, with serrated margins and a glossy dark green color. The tree produces small greenish-white flowers in early summer, which are followed by edible red to black berries in late summer.
Uses
The tree is grown mainly for its fruits, which are juicy, sweet, and rich in antioxidants. The berries can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and pies. The leaves, twigs, and bark of the tree are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, fever, and sore throat. The tree is also often planted as an ornamental tree for its attractive foliage and fruit, and as a shade tree for gardens, parks, and streetscapes.
Growth Conditions for Morus japonica Audib.
Morus japonica Audib., commonly known as Japanese mulberry, prefers sunlight or partial shade for optimal growth. The plant needs at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in extremely hot climates, the plant requires some shade during the hottest times of the day. The ideal location for planting should be a spot with good exposure to sunlight in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon.
The best growth temperature for Morus japonica Audib. is between 20 to 30°C. The plant is adaptable to varying temperature conditions, but prolonged exposure to temperature extremes below 5°C or above 40°C can adversely affect its growth rate and productivity.
Morus japonica Audib. requires well-drained soils rich in organic matter. The plant grows best in loamy soils with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should have good water retention capabilities, but at the same time ensure effective drainage to prevent waterlogging. The recommended soil depth for planting Morus japonica is at least 1.5 meters since the plant develops deep roots that allow it to access moisture and nutrients effectively.
Regular application of organic manure and appropriate fertilizers such as nitrogen and potassium improves the plant's overall growth. However, excessive use of fertilizers can result in poor mulberry quality and contribute to environmental pollution.
Cultivation of Morus japonica Audib.
Morus japonica Audib., commonly known as Japanese mulberry, is a deciduous tree that grows well in warm and humid climates. It requires a well-drained soil and ample sunlight for healthy growth. The tree has a moderate growth rate, reaching a height of 20-30 feet when fully mature.
Watering Needs of Morus japonica Audib.
Japanese mulberry requires moderate watering during the growing season, particularly during periods of extended dryness. Water the tree once or twice a week, depending on the soil conditions. Avoid overwatering the tree, as this can lead to root rot and negatively impact growth.
Fertilization of Morus japonica Audib.
Fertilize the Japanese mulberry tree once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be spread evenly around the base of the tree, and the soil should be watered immediately after application to help distribute the nutrients.
Pruning of Morus japonica Audib.
Prune the Japanese mulberry tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any damaged or dead branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. Additionally, thin out the center of the tree to promote good air circulation and sunlight penetration. Regular pruning will help maintain the tree's shape and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Morus japonica Audib.
Morus japonica Audib., commonly known as Japanese Mulberry or Shangluo, is a deciduous plant native to eastern Asia. This plant is commonly propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the primary method of propagating Morus japonica Audib. This method involves planting mature seeds harvested from ripe fruits in well-drained and fertile soil. The seeds should be soaked in water for several hours to improve the germination rate. Planted seeds should be kept in a warm and humid environment, and the soil should be kept moist. It usually takes around 2-4 weeks for the seeds to germinate, and it may take several years for the plant to reach maturity.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another popular method of propagating Morus japonica Audib. This method involves taking cuttings from established plants and planting them in well-drained and slightly acidic soil. It is advisable to use semi-hardwood cuttings collected towards the end of the growing season. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting, following which they should be kept in a humid environment with indirect sunlight. It typically takes 4-6 weeks for the cuttings to form new roots and start growing, and the plant should reach maturity within a couple of years.
Division
Division is a quick and easy method of propagating Morus japonica Audib. This method requires dividing the plant's roots into sections, with each section having at least one bud. The individual sections should be planted in well-drained soil and kept in a warm and humid environment with indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, new growth should emerge, and the plant should reach maturity within a year or two.
Disease Management for Morus japonica Audib.
Morus japonica Audib. is generally healthy and not susceptible to many diseases. However, some common diseases that may affect the plant are:
- Leaf spot: This is caused by fungi and can be identified by the appearance of circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Powdery mildew: This is also caused by fungi and can be identified by white powdery patches on the leaves. To manage this, remove and destroy infected leaves and use fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management for Morus japonica Audib.
Like many plants, Morus japonica Audib. can be affected by several pests. Some common pests that may affect the plant are:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These are small, flat insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck sap. To manage this, use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies and can feed on the leaves of the plant. To manage this, pick them off by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
