Origin of Morus tatarica L.
Morus tatarica L. is commonly known as the Tatarian mulberry. The plant is native to China and has been cultivated in various regions around the world.
Common Names
The Tatarian mulberry has several common names depending on the region where it is cultivated. Some of the common names include Chinese mulberry, Russian mulberry, white mulberry, and silkworm mulberry.
Uses
One of the most common uses of the Tatarian mulberry is in the production of silk. The leaves of the plant serve as the primary food source for silkworms. Apart from silk production, the Tatarian mulberry is also used for medicinal purposes. The plant’s bark, roots, and leaves have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, coughs, and sore throats.
General Appearance
The Tatarian mulberry is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. The plant has a single trunk and a broad, spreading canopy. The leaves are alternate, simple, and lobed, with a glossy green upper surface and a lighter green lower surface. The flowers are small, either male or female, and are borne in separate inflorescences on the same tree. The fruits of the Tatarian mulberry are reddish-purple or black, with a sweet taste.
Growth Conditions for Morus tatarica L.
Morus tatarica L., commonly known as Tatarian mulberry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to central and eastern Asia and can grow up to 10 m in height. To ensure optimal growth, the following growth conditions are ideal:
Light Requirements
Tatarian mulberry requires full sunlight to grow and develop properly. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Lack of sunlight can result in stunted growth and lower yields.
Temperature Requirements
Tatarian mulberry can adapt to various temperature ranges, but it thrives in temperate to subtropical climates. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C. However, the tree can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°C and as high as 40°C. During the winter season, the tree goes dormant and sheds its leaves.
Soil Requirements
Tatarian mulberry can grow in various soil types but prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, with a range between 6.0-8.0. The tree can also tolerate moderate drought conditions but requires adequate moisture for the first few years of growth. Overwatering can result in root rot.
It is also essential to provide sufficient space for the tree to grow as it can spread and become invasive. Proper pruning can keep the tree in check and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation methods
Morus tatarica L. is commonly known as Tatarian Mulberry and is grown mainly for its tasty fruits and also for its leaves for animal feed. It can be cultivated in areas with full sun exposure to partial shade. The plant thrives in well-drained soil, and its seeds can be sown directly into the ground during the spring season.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering to establish a strong root system, especially during the first two years of growth. The frequency and amount of water depend on the soil type and the weather conditions, but the plant generally prefers slightly moist soil. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil drains well.
Fertilization
Morus tatarica L. benefits from regular fertilization to enhance growth and fruit production. Nitrogen-based fertilizers are ideal during the early growth stages to foster the development of healthy foliage. During the fruiting stage, phosphorus-rich fertilizers are recommended to encourage fruit production. However, apply fertilizers in moderation to prevent over-fertilization, which can lead to stunted growth.
Pruning
Pruning helps to shape the plant, enhance the yield, and improve air circulation. However, prune the plant during the winter season when it is dormant. Cutting back weaker branches and those that crisscross will encourage the growth of stronger branches. Additionally, removing excess branches will allow more sunlight into the plant, thus stimulating better fruit development.
Propagation of Morus tatarica L.
Morus tatarica L., commonly known as Tatarian mulberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the family Moraceae. It is native to central Asia and widely distributed in China, India, and Pakistan. Morus tatarica L. is appreciated for its ornamental value and edible fruits. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easy way to propagate Morus tatarica L. The seeds are usually sown in the spring or fall in well-drained soil that has been amended with compost or other organic matter. The seedlings will emerge within three to four weeks after sowing and can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed two to three true leaves. The potted seedlings can be grown in a nursery or a greenhouse until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Morus tatarica L. can also be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the plant's soft, new growth in late spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings are taken from mature branches in late fall or winter. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and dipped in rooting hormone powder before they are inserted into a container filled with a rooting medium, such as perlite or vermiculite. The container should be covered with plastic to create a greenhouse-like environment that will encourage rooting. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Layering Propagation
Layering is a propagation method that involves bending a flexible branch of a mature plant to the ground and burying a section of it, while keeping the tip above the soil. The section of the branch that is buried will form roots and can be cut from the plant to be grown as a separate plant. Morus tatarica L. can be propagated by simple layering or air layering. Simple layering involves burying a flexible branch in the soil, while air layering involves making a cut on a mature branch and wrapping it with a rooting medium, such as sphagnum moss. The rooted layer can be cut from the plant and grown until it is large enough to be planted in its permanent location.
In conclusion, Morus tatarica L. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering. These propagation methods are simple and can be done by beginners with little experience. Proper care and attention should be given to the propagated plants to ensure their success and optimal growth.
Disease Management
Morus tatarica L. is prone to various diseases which can affect its growth and yield. The common diseases that affect this plant are as follows:
- Anthracnose: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves and stems, which eventually turn black. The infected areas may crack and split, making the plant vulnerable to other diseases. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts of the plant and spray with a fungicide.
- Crown gall: This disease appears as tumors on the roots and lower stem of the plant. The tumors can grow larger and eventually girdle the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant and destroy it. Ensure that the soil is not contaminated.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew causes white or grayish spots on the leaves and stems. The infected areas may turn yellow and die. To manage this disease, prune the affected parts of the plant and spray with a fungicide.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi that attack the roots, causing decay and eventual death of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage, and avoid over-watering and over-fertilizing. Use a fungicide to treat the soil.
Pest Management
Morus tatarica L. is also vulnerable to various pests which can damage the plant. The following are common pests that affect this plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to turn yellow and curl. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap, or use insecticides.
- Mites: Mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and dry up. To manage this pest, use insecticides or predatory mites.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking sap and causing the leaves to turn yellow and wither. To manage this pest, prune the affected parts of the plant and spray with insecticides.
- Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are tiny insects that use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the plant's sap. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow and curl. To manage this pest, remove the affected parts of the plant and use insecticides.
Proper monitoring of the plant, removing infected parts and promptly managing pest and disease infestations are key to ensuring the optimum growth and yield of Morus tatarica L.
