Overview of Morus lactea
Morus lactea, also known as the white mulberry or Himalayan mulberry, is a deciduous plant species belonging to the family Moraceae. The plant is native to parts of Asia, including the Himalayas, and can also be found in some parts of Europe and North America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the white mulberry or Himalayan mulberry. Other common names include shahtoot, shaitoot, and tut.
Appearance and Habitat
Morus lactea is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to a height of 10 meters. The bark of the tree is smooth and greyish-brown in color while the leaves are alternate, simple, and heart-shaped with a serrated margin. The trees produce fruits that are small and white and are similar in appearance to the fruits of other mulberry species. The plant prefers well-drained soils and sunny to partially shaded locations.
Uses
The white mulberry is well known for its use in traditional medicine practices. The leaves and fruits of the plant have been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various conditions. The fruits of the plant can be eaten raw or used in the production of jams, jellies, and other food items. The tree also provides a food source for silkworms, which use the leaves as a primary food source during their larval stage.
Overall, Morus lactea is a versatile plant that has proven to be useful in multiple ways. From its medicinal properties to its usefulness in the production of food items, the plant continues to be valued by many.
Light Requirements
Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. thrives in areas with bright, direct sunlight. It can tolerate some shade but still needs a significant amount of sunlight to grow properly. When grown indoors, it's better to place the plant near the windows to receive as much sunlight as possible.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). However, it can still survive in temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can cause damage to the plant, and temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can cause the leaves to become withered and dry.
Soil Requirements
The Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. plant requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It can grow in both neutral and slightly acidic soils, making it adaptable to different types of soil. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, and it should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Moreover, the plant needs good aeration to ensure proper root growth.
Cultivation of Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr.
Before planting Morus lactea, it is essential to note that it grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires plenty of space to grow.
When planting, ensure that the hole is at least twice the size of the pot and is deep enough to accommodate the entire root system. After planting, water the plant deeply to encourage establishment.
Watering Needs of Morus lactea
Morus lactea requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase. Young plants need more frequent watering than mature ones. It is crucial to ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Watering should be done in the morning or afternoon to avoid wet foliage in the evening, which can encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Morus lactea
Regular fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Morus lactea. Applying a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can go a long way in promoting healthy growth and fruit production. It is advisable to use a 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, applied at a rate of 1 pound per inch of trunk diameter, three times in a year.
Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used, but caution should be taken to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit production.
Pruning of Morus lactea
Pruning is an essential aspect of Morus lactea cultivation, and it should be done annually to promote healthy growth and fruit production. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
When pruning, remove any damaged, diseased, or dead wood. Also, remove any suckers that emerge from the base of the plant to encourage a single trunk. Thin out dense growth to improve sunlight penetration and airflow, which helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
It is also important to shape the plant to the desired form and size. The overall aim of pruning is to create an efficient framework of branches that can support healthy fruit production and promote longevity.
Propagation of Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr.
Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. is commonly known as Himalayan mulberry or white mulberry. It is a deciduous plant that belongs to the family of Moraceae and is native to the Himalayan region. The plant is widely grown for its edible fruits and leaves that are used in traditional medicine. Propagation of this plant can be done in several ways, including:
Seed Propagation
Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. can be propagated through seeds. Seeds are collected from the ripe fruits during the months of July to September. The collected seeds are sown in the nursery during the early spring season. The seeds must be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to increase the success rate of germination. The seedlings can be transplanted to the main field when they attain a height of 15 to 20 cm.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another common method of propagating Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. The cuttings are collected from the mature and healthy branches during the dormant season, which is usually in the winter months. The cuttings with a length of 15 to 20 cm are treated with a rooting hormone and planted in moist soil. The soil is kept moist, and the cuttings develop roots within a few weeks. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted into the main field during the spring season.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a popular method of propagating Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. The technique is used to propagate plants that are difficult to root through other means. The selected branch is wounded, and a ring of bark is removed. The wound is then covered with moist soil, which is then covered with plastic. Roots develop from the wounded area, and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into the main field during the early spring season.
Division Propagation
Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. can also be propagated through division. The mature plants are dug out of the ground during the dormant season and divided into small clumps. Each clump should have a few buds and roots. The divided plants are then transplanted into the main field during the early spring season.
Introduction
Morus lactea (Sim) Mildbr. is a species of tree in the family Moraceae, commonly known as white mulberry, which is native to Asia. The plant has several uses with its fruits and leaves being used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Morus lactea is vulnerable to various diseases and pests, which can cause significant damage to the tree if not properly managed.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Morus lactea is powdery mildew, which is caused by fungal spores. Symptoms of powdery mildew include white powdery growth on the leaves, shoots, and flowers of the tree. To manage this disease, it is important to prune infected branches and provide good air circulation around the tree. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Another disease that affects Morus lactea is leaf spot, which is caused by a fungal infection. Symptoms of leaf spot include yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. Good cultural practices, including regular pruning and removal of infected leaves, can help control the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used to manage leaf spot.
Common pests
Morus lactea is vulnerable to several pests, including the whitefly, spider mite, and scale insects. Whiteflies are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. They also secrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which can attract ants and other insects. Insecticidal soaps and oils can be used to control whiteflies.
Spider mites are also sap-sucking pests that can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. They are difficult to see with the naked eye and tend to thrive in warm, dry conditions. Regular watering and pruning of infected branches can help control spider mites. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control spider mites.
Scale insects are another common pest that affect Morus lactea. They are sap-sucking pests that secrete a waxy coating, making them difficult to see and control. Insecticidal soaps and oils can be used to dislodge and suffocate scale insects, which can help control their spread.
Conclusion
Effective management of diseases and pests is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of Morus lactea. Good cultural practices, including regular pruning and removal of infected branches, can help control the spread of disease and pests. Chemical controls, including fungicides and insecticides, can also be used to manage pests and diseases.
