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Discovering the White Mulberry in Our Backyard:

When we moved into our home in Texas, we never expected to find a hidden gem in our backyard. It wasn’t until a sunny afternoon in April that we noticed the white mulberries starting to ripen and fall from a mature tree just a few steps away from our door. The children, Neil and Leon, were the first to spot the small, sweet fruits scattered on the ground. Intrigued, we decided to collect and taste them, discovering their pleasant fig-like sweetness. This serendipitous find has since become a delightful addition to our daily routine and a fantastic learning opportunity for our homeschooling adventure.

The History and Significance of White Mulberry in Texas

The white mulberry tree, scientifically known as Morus alba, has a rich history that spans continents and centuries. Native to China, the white mulberry was initially cultivated for its leaves, which serve as the primary food source for silkworms in the silk production industry. The cultivation of this tree spread to various parts of the world, including India, Korea, and eventually, North America.

In Texas, the white mulberry was introduced during the 19th century as part of an effort to establish a silk industry. Although the silk industry did not take off as planned, the tree found a new home in the Texas landscape. Its adaptability to different soil types and climates allowed it to naturalize and thrive across the state. Today, the white mulberry is a common sight in many Texan backyards and parks, appreciated for its shade, ornamental value, and fruit.

The Life Cycle of the White Mulberry Tree

Understanding the life cycle of the white mulberry tree can provide valuable insights into its growth patterns and maintenance needs. The tree undergoes several stages from seed germination to maturity, each with its own unique characteristics.

1. Germination and Seedling Stage:
   The life of a white mulberry tree begins with a seed. Under favorable conditions of warmth and moisture, the seed germinates and develops into a seedling. This stage is critical as the young plant establishes its root system and begins to grow.
2. Juvenile Stage:
   During this period, the tree experiences rapid growth. Its roots expand deeper into the soil, and its trunk and branches grow taller and stronger. The tree focuses its energy on vegetative growth, producing an abundance of leaves.
3. Mature Stage:
   A white mulberry tree typically reaches maturity within 10 to 15 years. At this stage, the tree begins to produce flowers and fruits. The flowering usually occurs in spring, with small, greenish-yellow flowers that are often inconspicuous.
4. Fruit Production:
   The flowers of the white mulberry develop into small, cluster-like fruits. These fruits mature over several weeks, changing color from green to white, pink, or even dark purple, depending on the variety. The ripe fruits are sweet and juicy, attracting birds and other wildlife.
5. Dormancy:
   In late fall and winter, the white mulberry tree enters a dormant phase. During this time, the tree conserves energy and sheds its leaves. This natural cycle helps the tree survive adverse weather conditions and prepares it for new growth in the spring.

Uses of the White Mulberry Tree

The white mulberry tree is incredibly versatile, offering a range of uses beyond its ornamental value and fruit production. Here are some of the most notable applications:

1. Culinary Uses:

• Fruits: The sweet berries of the white mulberry can be eaten fresh, dried, or made into jams, jellies, and tarts. Their mild, fig-like flavor makes them a delightful addition to various dishes.
• Leaves: In some cultures, mulberry leaves are brewed into tea, known for their potential health benefits, including blood sugar regulation and antioxidant properties.

1. Medicinal Uses:
   Traditional medicine has long utilized different parts of the white mulberry tree. The bark, leaves, and fruit have been used to treat a variety of ailments such as digestive issues, respiratory problems, and inflammation. Modern research is exploring the potential health benefits of mulberry extracts in managing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
2. Agricultural and Environmental Uses:

• Animal Feed: Mulberry leaves are highly nutritious and serve as excellent feed for livestock, particularly silkworms.
• Erosion Control: The extensive root system of the white mulberry helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it a valuable plant for conservation efforts.

1. Wood and Craft Uses:
   The wood of the white mulberry tree is durable and often used in furniture making, crafting musical instruments, and creating various wooden items. Its fine grain and attractive color make it a preferred material for artisans.

How to Plant and Care for a White Mulberry Tree

White mulberries are tough, fast-growing fruit trees that can reward you with decades of shade and sweet berries. Here’s a simple step-by-step to get yours started and thriving:

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Pick a full-sun location with good drainage. Standard mulberries need about 25–30 feet of space, but dwarf types can fit in smaller yards. A soil test kit can help you check pH (they like 5.5–7.5).

Step 2: Prepare the Hole

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Blend in some well-aged compost if your soil is poor. A sturdy garden shovel makes this part easier.

Step 3: Plant the Tree

Set the tree in place so the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill, firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly. If your area is windy, stake with a tree stake kit for the first season only.

Step 4: Mulch Well

Spread 2–3 inches of mulch in a wide circle around the base, but keep it a few inches from the trunk. A mulch ring mat keeps the area neat and weed-free.

Step 5: Water the First Year

Deep-water once or twice a week (about 1 inch of water) until established. A soaker hose makes it simple to deliver consistent moisture. After year two, water mainly during dry spells.

Step 6: Light Feeding

Mulberries aren’t heavy feeders. If growth seems slow, top-dress with compost in spring or use a light organic fruit tree fertilizer.

Step 7: Prune for Shape

Prune in late summer after fruiting to control size and encourage healthy structure. Sharp bypass pruners help you make clean cuts. Remove any crossing or crowded branches.

Step 8: Harvest and Enjoy

Fruit ripens in late spring to early summer. Lay down a tarp and gently shake the branches, or use a long-handled fruit picker to gather ripe berries without a ladder.

Making the Most of Our Backyard Mulberry Tree

Inspired by our discovery, we have embraced the presence of the white mulberry tree in our backyard as an integral part of our homeschooling curriculum. It offers numerous educational opportunities for Neil and Leon, from observing the tree’s life cycle to understanding its ecological importance and exploring its uses.

One of our favorite activities is harvesting the mulberries and experimenting with different recipes in our kitchen. The boys enjoy helping with every step, from picking the ripe fruits to washing and preparing them for our culinary creations. Our latest project is a mulberry tart, a simple yet delicious treat that celebrates the natural sweetness of the fruit.

Recipe for Mulberry Tart:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fresh white mulberries
• 1 pre-made tart crust
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Gently mix in the mulberries, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
5. Pour the mulberry mixture into the tart crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Allow the tart to cool before serving. Enjoy

Our white mulberry tree has transformed our backyard into a haven of discovery and learning. Its presence has enriched our homeschooling experience, providing hands-on lessons in botany, ecology, and culinary arts. As we continue to explore the many facets of this remarkable tree, we are reminded of the importance of connecting with nature and appreciating the hidden treasures that surround us. Whether it’s through a delicious homemade tart or a quiet moment observing the changing seasons, the white mulberry has become a cherished part of our family’s journey.