Question on Mulberry Trees for Central OR - Ask Extension
Hi There,
I live a few miles outside of Redmond, OR. Interested in Mulberry trees that are suited to this area. My understanding is that some th...
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Question on Mulberry Trees for Central OR #863603
Asked April 07, 2024, 11:35 AM EDT
Hi There,
I live a few miles outside of Redmond, OR. Interested in Mulberry trees that are suited to this area. My understanding is that some the early Oregon homesteaders/pioneers planted Mulberry trees (including the John Day country), some of which are still alive today. Granted, Kimberly where the famous fruit orchards are located is 1000' lower in elevation than Redmond...
--Really would like a dwarf/semi-dwarf variety....(The bigger they get the more water they require! Also, trimming and training become more of a pain as the tree gets bigger over time. Less quality time spent up on ladders is better for me).
--Preferably fruit-bearing (although I know how spotty actual fruit production can be out here!)
I do see the Home Depot website lists a dwarf ever-bearing mulberry tree (Morus nigra), but IDK if it would survive here.
If there is a dwarf/semi-dwarf variety of white mulberry tree (Morus alba) that could survive here, that would be high on my list. That particular variety of mulberry seems to be best-suited as a food source for silkworms. Some people consider them a garden pest, but if I can promote big, gorgeous moths flying around out at my place, that would be really cool.
I do see one variety listed on the OSU Xeriscape list (Weeping Mulberry). Is it possible to trim that one to look more a "classic" tree rather than a big green Teletubby? It apparently doesn't bear fruit but checks the boxes for not being too big and not requiring too much water. IDK if the silk moths native to central OR would feed on that variety, or not. Will continue to research it.
Thank you!
Deschutes CountyOregon
Expert Response
Hi Jon, Thank you for your question about Mulberry Trees for Central Oregon.
Amy Jo Detweiler, a member of the OSU Extension horticulture staff, has stated: “Mulberry bushes are not common here in Central Oregon, so I do not have any recommendations for cultivars. We do have a weeping fruitless one in the demonstration garden in Redmond, it has done pretty well but has suffered some dieback in more recent years. This plant is considered invasive in some states so has lost some popularity. Here is some additional information on this plant: Morus alba | Landscape Plants | Oregon State University
If you need additional information, I recommend you call the Deschutes County OSU Extension office in Redmond at<personal data hidden> and ask to speak with Amy Jo Detweiler (oregonstate.edu). Amy Jo welcomes your home garden questions and is a great resource. She may have additional ideas for you.