It looks like a romantic decoration from an English park, but in summer it will shower you with sweet fruits. The overhanging mulberry is a tree that has been almost forgotten, yet it can withstand drought and heat without complaint. So if you are looking for an unpretentious beauty for the garden, you have just found it.
At first glance, the overhanging mulberry looks like an ornamental tree that is mainly meant to please the eye. Its branches flow down in soft curves, creating a natural green canopy. But when summer comes, this tree turns into a small fruit miracle. Tens to hundreds of juicy fruits ripen under the inconspicuous crownwhich taste like a mixture of blackberries, only they are even sweeter.
The overhanging mulberry may be inconspicuous, but it is a very useful plant that you will simply fall in love with. Watch the video on how to properly care for her so that she thrives:
A tree that loves sun and drought
they originally come from the warmer regions of Asia and southern Europe, that’s why they love it sunny habitats. The overhanging form is also ideal for smaller gardens, where it can function as a solitaire. It needs permeable soil and hates waterlogging. However, once they take root well, they can also cope with a longer period of drought.
A big advantage is its resistance. Mulberries belong to the least demanding fruit trees at all. It does not require regular spraying and does not suffer from common diseases like other fruit trees. All you have to do is give it enough space and occasionally remove dry or damaged branches.
When planting, think about the future. The tree grows to a height of several meters and its crown spreads wide. It is therefore ideal to plant mulberry trees at least five meters away from other trees, buildings, a terrace or the entrance to the house. Ripe fruits gradually fall off and their dark juice can stain the pavement and clothes.
Sweet harvest full of health
Mulberry fruits ripen gradually, so the harvest takes several weeks. This is done by spreading a tarp under the tree and lightly shaking the branches. Ripe fruits then fall off by themselves. Fresh, they are delicious just in a bowl, but they also go well with cakes, jams, syrups or homemade liqueurs.
In addition to taste, however, they can also please with their nutritional value. They contain vitamin C, group B vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Dark species are also valued for their high proportion of natural substances that support immunity and blood circulation. In addition, dried mulberries are so sweet that they can be used as a natural sweetener.
We distinguish between black, white and red mulberries. Black and white varieties are most often grown here. But don’t let the color of the name fool you. White mulberry can also have pink to pinkish fruits. So, if you want really bright, non-staining fruits, you need to choose a specific variety carefully.
A forgotten treasure for modern gardens
At a time when many gardeners are increasingly looking for hardy and self-sufficient plants, the overhanging mulberry is making a comeback. She is beautiful, generous and surprisingly modest. All it needs is sun, a little space, and it will reward you with an annual flood of sweet fruit. And maybe she will give your garden not only a romantic look, but also a taste of summer that will not be forgotten.
