How to grow Mulberry in the UK
Morus nigra
Mulberry (Morus nigra) is a fruit that grows well in UK gardens. Long-lived (300+ years) — plant for your grandchildren. Stains EVERYTHING — keep away from washing line. This guide covers when and how to sow Mulberry, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Fruit
Difficulty
Moderate
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
August, September
When to sow & grow Mulberry
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb Plant | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct | Nov Plant | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Deep, fertile, well-drained soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.0
- Position
- Sun and shelter for good pollination
- Sowing depth
- Plant to the original soil mark; stake bare-root trees
- Spacing
- Large specimen tree — allow 8 m
- Sowing
- Plant a young tree; slow but very long-lived
- Growing
- Water well for the first 3 years; mulch and feed in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Minimal pruning — bleeds heavily, so only trim when fully dormant
- Watch for
- Generally trouble-free
Companion planting for Mulberry
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Mulberry this year
Add Mulberry to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Mulberry FAQs
How much sun does Mulberry need?
Mulberry prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Mulberry ready to harvest?
Mulberry is typically ready to harvest in August, September in the UK.
Is Mulberry easy to grow?
Moderate. Long-lived (300+ years) — plant for your grandchildren. Stains EVERYTHING — keep away from washing line.