Morus nigra

Germination

Sow indoors at any time. Sow into a cold frame in autumn. Prior to sowing soak seeds for 24-48 hours and drain. Create a mix of 1:1 seed compost and sharp sand or vermiculite which is moist but not wet. Add seeds to the mix and place in a freezer bag, allow a little air gap or tie loosely. Place in the fridge, 4°C for 8-12 weeks. If seeds germinate during this time remove and pot up. Otherwise after 12 weeks remove and sow onto moist compost. Ideal temp. 15-20°C. Do not expose to temps. above 25°C or the seed may enter dormancy again. Keep moist. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on for 2-3 years before planting in the final position. Can be sown into a cold frame in autumn where natural winter cold will offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms.

Growing

Prefers a moist, humus-rich soil in full sun. Offer shelter from cold and drying winds.

Cultivation

Pruning group 1. No routine pruning necessary. Prune if needed in late autumn or early winter to prevent bleeding. After pruning mulch and feed. Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in mid-summer.