Plant Framboisier Mûrier Loch Tay - Alvéoles mini-mottes

Bairiverse, your expert supplier of small fruit plants, offers a complete range of professional mulberry trees adapted to the needs of market gardeners, with organic and conventional varieties selected for their productivity, resistance and taste quality, available from €0.66 excluding VAT.

How to choose the right mulberry plants for profitable and professional fruit production

To successfully purchase professional mulberry plants , several essential criteria must be taken into account:

The variety

Choose mulberry trees that are suited to your region and production goals . For example, the ' Black Satin ' variety offers high productivity and is cold hardy down to -15°C, while ' Triple Crown ' produces enormous fruits up to 8 grams.

Precocity

Select a mix of early, seasonal, and late varieties to spread out your production. ' Darrow ' is early (July-August), ' Loch Ness ' is seasonal (August-October), and ' Smoothstem ' is late (September-October).

Productivity

Opt for high-yielding varieties like 'Loch Ness' or 'Triple Crown' , known for their high productivity.

Disease resistance

Choose hardy, resistant varieties like 'Dirksen' , which can withstand temperatures down to -23°C and is disease-resistant.

Taste quality

Choose according to your market opportunities . 'Loch Ness' offers low-acid, aromatic fruits, ideal for direct sales.

Benefits of buying professional plants

• Guaranteed quality : Specialized suppliers like Bairiverse offer certified, disease-free and genetically compliant plants.
• Optimized yield : Professional plants are selected for their high productivity, allowing yields to be significantly increased compared to amateur plants.
• Technical support : Professional suppliers generally offer personalized support, with advice on crop management and technical itinerary.
• Increased profitability : By investing in quality plants, you optimize your production and reduce the risk of losses, thus improving the profitability of your operation.

By choosing your mulberry varieties wisely and opting for professional plants , you lay the foundations for successful and profitable fruit production.

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What type of mulberry plant should you choose for successful professional cultivation?

To choose the type of mulberry plant best suited to your farm , it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option:

Plants in alveoli

• Advantages : Economical in potting soil, promotes good rooting of seedlings. Ideal for sowing above ground and easy to handle.
• Disadvantages : Requires rapid transplanting once roots have developed.

Mini-clods

• Advantages : Easy transplanting or repotting, rapid regrowth with less stress for the plant. Eco-friendly because it is plastic-free.
• Disadvantages : Requires specific soil and a specific technique for creating the clumps. Sensitive to drying out.

Bare roots

• Advantages : Less expensive, easy to transport in large quantities.
• Disadvantages : Planting limited to the vegetative rest period, high risk of drying out, more delicate recovery.

Buckets

• Advantages : Good root protection, planting possible almost all year round.
• Disadvantages : More expensive, requires more potting soil and storage space.

Pots

• Advantages : More developed plants, faster fruiting.
• Disadvantages : High price, more difficult transport and handling, risk of roots becoming knotted.

For professional mulberry production , seedlings in cells or mini-balls are often preferred because they offer a good compromise between cost , ease of handling and rooting quality . Cells with a diameter of 30 mm and a depth of 46 mm are particularly suitable for the majority of seedlings.

It is important to choose containers that allow good root development and facilitate transplanting. Check that the cells or pots have a sufficiently large hole under the cell to facilitate demolding.

Whichever option you choose , make sure to maintain consistent soil moisture , especially important for mini-plugs that are susceptible to drying out. Mulching can help keep the soil cool after planting.

By taking these factors into account and your specific growing conditions (climate, soil, scale of production), you will be able to select the type of plant best suited to your mulberry growing project.

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Which mulberry varieties should you choose for widespread and efficient production?

The most common mulberry varieties in France fall into two main categories: traditional varieties and specific varieties adapted to different production periods .

Traditional varieties

• Black Mulberry (Morus nigra) : Produces sweet and tangy black fruits, highly prized for their complex flavor. Its fruits ripen in early summer and are particularly suited to Mediterranean climates.
• White mulberry (Morus alba) : Originally cultivated for its leaves, which are used to raise silkworms, it produces white, pink, purple, or black fruits depending on the variety. Its fruits are generally sweeter and less acidic than those of the black mulberry.
• Plane mulberry (Morus platanifolia) : Valued for its ornamental appearance, it also produces edible fruit.

Specific varieties

Early

• 'Black Bute' : A variety with small thorns that fruits from mid-June. Its fruits weigh between 12 and 23 g.
• 'Darrow' : Produces blackberries from July to August.

Seasonal

• 'Loch Ness' : A very productive, thornless variety with large, fragrant fruits. Harvesting takes place from August to October.
• 'Triple Crown' : Thornless, produces very large, shiny, sweet, aromatic black fruits from late July to early October.

Late

• 'Smoothstem' (or 'Smouthern') : A late-producing, thornless variety that can bear fruit until October.

Remontantes

• 'Reuben' : Everbearing variety producing large, fragrant, very sweet black fruits from June to November.

Specific varieties without thorns

• 'Jumbo' : Produces very large black fruits. The main harvest is in August-September.
• 'Navajo' : Medium-sized but very tasty fruits, appearing in late July.
• 'Chester Thornless' : Productive and disease-resistant variety.

It is important to note that some varieties, such as 'Triple Crown' , can produce up to 20 kg of fruit per year .

The choice of variety will depend on local climatic conditions, available space and production objectives . For staggered production , it is recommended to combine early, seasonal and late varieties .

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Which mulberry varieties should you choose for widespread and efficient production?

The most common mulberry varieties in France fall into two main categories: traditional varieties and specific varieties adapted to different production periods .

Traditional varieties

• Black Mulberry (Morus nigra) : Produces sweet and tangy black fruits, highly prized for their complex flavor. Its fruits ripen in early summer and are particularly suited to Mediterranean climates.
• White mulberry (Morus alba) : Originally cultivated for its leaves, which are used to raise silkworms, it produces white, pink, purple, or black fruits depending on the variety. Its fruits are generally sweeter and less acidic than those of the black mulberry.
• Plane mulberry (Morus platanifolia) : Valued for its ornamental appearance, it also produces edible fruit.

Specific varieties

Early

• 'Black Bute' : A variety with small thorns that fruits from mid-June. Its fruits weigh between 12 and 23 g.
• 'Darrow' : Produces blackberries from July to August.

Seasonal

• 'Loch Ness' : A very productive, thornless variety with large, fragrant fruits. Harvesting takes place from August to October.
• 'Triple Crown' : Thornless, produces very large, shiny, sweet, aromatic black fruits from late July to early October.

Late

• 'Smoothstem' (or 'Smouthern') : A late-producing, thornless variety that can bear fruit until October.

Remontantes

• 'Reuben' : Everbearing variety producing large, fragrant, very sweet black fruits from June to November.

Specific varieties without thorns

• 'Jumbo' : Produces very large black fruits. The main harvest is in August-September.
• 'Navajo' : Medium-sized but very tasty fruits, appearing in late July.
• 'Chester Thornless' : Productive and disease-resistant variety.

It is important to note that some varieties, such as 'Triple Crown' , can produce up to 20 kg of fruit per year .

The choice of variety will depend on local climatic conditions, available space and production objectives . For staggered production , it is recommended to combine early, seasonal and late varieties .

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The best everbearing mulberry varieties for long and profitable production

Yes, there are everbearing varieties of mulberry trees , although they are less common than non-everbearing varieties. These varieties offer the advantage of producing fruit over a longer period , which can be of particular interest to professional growers .

Here is a selection of the best everbearing varieties recommended for professionals :

Reuben

This is the most well-known and appreciated everbearing variety . It produces large, fragrant, very sweet black fruits from June to November. Reuben is particularly interesting for professionals because it offers:

• Production spread over a long period
• Fruits of superior taste quality
• Good productivity

Prime-Ark Freedom

This thornless American variety is characterized by:

• Early maturity
• Large-sized fruits
• A pleasant flavor with a good balance between acidity and sweetness
• Two-stage production : on floricannes in spring/early summer, then on primocannes in late summer/autumn

Prime-Ark 45

Another everbearing variety from the University of Arkansas breeding program. It offers:

• Good productivity
• Firm fruits suitable for marketing
• Increased resistance to disease

Black Gem

This everbearing variety is appreciated for:

• Its regular production throughout the season
• Its medium to large sized fruits
• Its balanced taste between sweet and tangy

Advantages of everbearing varieties for professional growers

• Spreading of production , allowing a continuous presence on the market
• Reducing climate risks through multiple fruiting periods
• Optimizing the workforce over a longer period

It is important to note that everbearing varieties require more intensive maintenance and appropriate fertilization to maintain their productivity throughout the season. In addition, pruning should be adjusted to promote production on both floricannes and primocanes.

To achieve the best results, professionals are recommended to combine everbearing varieties with early and late non-everbearing varieties . This approach allows for optimizing production throughout the season and catering to different market segments.

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Optimal Mulberry Planting Schedule for Successful Recovery and Good Yield

The optimal time to plant mulberry trees is primarily from fall to early spring, with some variations depending on the region and plant type. Here's a detailed schedule to maximize the recovery and yield of your mulberry trees:

Fall planting (recommended)

• From the end of October to the beginning of December
• Benefits : Allows roots to establish well before winter, promoting better recovery in spring

Late winter/early spring planting

• From February to April
• Particularly suitable for regions with harsh winters

For plants in pots

• Possible periods : from September to November or from February to May
• Advantage : Offers more flexibility than bare-root plants

Specific calendar according to the varieties

• Black Satin, Dirksen, Loch Ness mulberry : planting from September to November or from February to May
• Thornfree Mulberry, Triple Crown : same period as above

Important points to consider

• Avoid planting during periods of frost or heat waves
• In mild climates, fall planting is ideal because the soil is still warm and humidity is higher
• For areas with harsh winters, plant in late winter/early spring to avoid frost damage to young plants.

Adjust the planting date according to the type of plant

• Bare-root plants : plant preferably in April, when frost is no longer a risk
• Potted plants : more flexibility, planting possible in autumn or spring

To maximize yield , plant early enough to allow for good establishment before the first production season. Most varieties begin producing significantly 2 years after planting .

By following this schedule and adapting the planting period to your local climate and the type of plant chosen , you will optimize the chances of recovery and the future yield of your mulberry trees. Remember that soil preparation , post-planting watering and mulching are also essential to ensure good recovery of the plants.

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Ideal conditions for planting mulberry trees in professional cultivation

Mulberry trees require specific conditions for optimal growth and abundant production in professional cultivation:

Exposure

Mulberry trees prefer a sunny to slightly shaded location . A full sun location promotes abundant flowering and fruiting, especially for species like Morus nigra and Morus rubra . It is recommended to choose a location where the plants will receive 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day .

Climate

Mulberry trees are generally hardy and adapt to various climates. Most varieties can withstand temperatures down to -25°C , with some, such as 'Black Satin', being cold-hardy down to -15°C . In temperate climates, mulberry trees thrive particularly well.

Ground

Well-drained , humus-rich , slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH between 5.5 and 6.5) is ideal for mulberry trees. The soil should be deep, loose, and cool enough to promote good root development. Adding sand can improve drainage in heavy soils.

Planting distances

For professional cultivation, planting distances vary depending on the variety's growth habit :

• Semi-erect varieties : space 3 to 4 meters between plants
• Upright varieties : a distance of 1.5 meters is sufficient
• Minimum distance between each plant: 1 meter
• For a fruit hedge or row crop : allow 2 to 3 meters between the rows to facilitate maintenance and harvesting

Protection

Choose a location sheltered from strong winds to protect plants and promote pollination. In windy areas, installing windbreaks can be beneficial.

Soil preparation

Before planting, loosen the soil thoroughly and enrich it with compost or well-rotted manure . This preparation will promote good rooting and vigorous growth of the plants.

By respecting these ideal planting conditions , professional producers can optimize the growth and productivity of their mulberry trees, thus ensuring abundant and quality fruit production .

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What soil should you choose for growing mulberry trees for professional production?

Mulberry trees are relatively undemanding fruit trees in terms of soil, but certain conditions promote their optimal growth and productivity . Here are the characteristics of the ideal soil for growing mulberry trees:

Favorable soil types

Mulberry trees adapt to a wide variety of soils, but they prefer deep, humus-rich, well-drained soils . They tolerate light, dry, rocky , and even calcareous soils. However, medium-heavy soils are particularly popular.

Recommended pH

The optimal pH for mulberry trees is between 5.5 and 6.5 , which is slightly acidic to neutral . This range promotes better absorption of nutrients essential for growth and fruiting.

Drainage

Good drainage is crucial for mulberry trees. They do not tolerate compacted soils or standing moisture . To improve drainage in heavy soils, adding sand can be beneficial. Well-drained soil prevents root rot problems and promotes healthy root development.

Necessary amendments

To optimize the growth of mulberry trees, several amendments can be made to the soil:

• Organic matter : Adding compost or well-rotted manure improves soil structure , increases its water-holding capacity and provides essential nutrients .
• Balanced Fertilizer : Use a fertilizer specially formulated for fruit trees, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Mulching : Applying mulch (straw, hay, BRF) around the base of the mulberry trees helps to retain soil moisture , regulate temperature and gradually enrich the soil with organic matter.
• Lime : If the soil is too acidic (pH below 5.5), lime may be necessary to adjust the pH .
• Sand : In clay soils, adding sand improves water and air circulation , thus promoting root growth.

Soil preparation before planting

Before planting mulberry trees, it is recommended to:

• Subsoil or loosen the soil to a depth of 60 cm to facilitate rooting.
• Use a horizontal axis cultivator to refine the soil surface.
• Practice "pralining" the roots by soaking them in a mixture of water, dung and soil to encourage recovery.

By following these soil recommendations, mulberry growers can create optimal conditions for their trees' growth and productivity. It's important to note that mulberry trees are able to adapt to less than ideal conditions , making them a relatively easy crop for market gardeners to manage.

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How to successfully launch a mulberry plot into professional production

To successfully start a mulberry plot , follow these essential steps:

Ground preparation

• Perform a soil test to determine the pH and nutrients present.
• Remove all perennial weeds such as couch grass and Canada thistle.
• Work the soil deeply (60 cm) to encourage good rooting.
• Incorporate organic matter : 12 to 15 L/m² of well-rotted manure or compost.
• Adjust the pH if necessary to reach 5.5 to 6.5.

Choice of varieties

• Select an assortment of early, seasonal, and late varieties to spread out production.
• Choose varieties that are suited to your climate and resistant to disease.
• Choose productive varieties like 'Loch Ness' or 'Triple Crown'.
• Include thornless varieties for easier harvesting, such as 'Thornfree' or 'Chester Thornless'.

Practical organization of plantations

• Plant preferably in autumn (October-November) or early spring (February-April).
• Respect the planting distances :
  • 3 to 4 m between plants for semi-erect varieties
  • 1.5 m for erect varieties
  • 2 to 3 m between rows to facilitate maintenance and harvesting
• Install a solid trellis system : taut wire or sturdy metal mesh.
• Place the first wire about 50 cm from the ground , then space the following ones 30 to 40 cm apart.

Planting

• Dig holes 40 cm square and deep.
• Apply a praline to the roots to encourage recovery.
• Position the plants , ensuring that the graft point is at ground level.
• Fill with a mixture of soil and compost , press down lightly and water thoroughly.

Post-planting care

• Apply mulch to retain moisture and limit weeds.
• Install an irrigation system , ideally drip irrigation.
• Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 10-20-20) at a rate of 40 to 50 g/m of row.

By following these steps, you will lay the foundation for a productive and profitable mulberry plot . Remember to adapt these recommendations to your specific local conditions and the particular requirements of the chosen varieties .

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Beneficial associations to optimize the cultivation of mulberry trees in professional market gardening

The right combination of mulberry varieties with each other and with companion plants can greatly improve the productivity and health of your crop. Here are the most beneficial combinations:

Combination of mulberry varieties

• Combine early varieties like 'Black Bute' with late varieties like 'Smoothstem' to spread production over a longer period.
• Plant self-fertile varieties like 'Triple Crown' near less fertile varieties to improve cross-pollination .

Associations with companion plants

• Plant marigolds and basil near blackberry bushes to repel aphids and other insect pests.
• Combine blackberry bushes with raspberries and strawberries to create a diverse and attractive berry area for pollinators.
• Incorporate aromatic plants such as lavender, rosemary or mint to repel certain pests and attract beneficial insects .

Associations beneficial to pollination

• Create flower strips near blackberry bushes with honey plants such as phacelia, buckwheat or borage to attract pollinators .
• Plant flowering shrubs such as elderberry or dogwood to provide habitat for wild pollinators .

Protection against diseases and pests

• Combine mulberries with garlic or onion to repel certain insect pests .
• Plant marigold between rows of mulberry trees for its repellent effect on nematodes .
• Incorporate plants from the Alliaceae family (garlic, chives) for their natural fungicidal action .

By adopting these associations, you will create a diverse ecosystem around your mulberry trees, thus promoting better pollination , natural protection against pests and an overall improvement in the health of your crop .

This approach is part of an agroecological approach , making it possible to reduce the use of phytosanitary products while optimizing production .

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Optimal maintenance of mulberry trees: practices for healthy and sustainable production

Mulberry tree maintenance is essential to ensure abundant and quality production . Here are the main aspects to consider:

Watering

• Mulberry trees need regular watering , especially during the flowering and fruiting period.
• The soil should remain moist but not soggy .
• During dry periods, water thoroughly once a week to encourage deep rooting.
• For plants grown in containers, monitor soil moisture carefully , as it dries out more quickly.
• Water directly at the base of the plant , preferably early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation.

Fertilization

• Mulberry trees are not very demanding when it comes to fertilization.
• In spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer , such as an NPK 10-10-10, at a rate of one pound per inch of trunk diameter .
• For well-established plants, annual fertilization in spring with a special fruit and berry fertilizer is usually sufficient.
• In autumn, incorporate 5 to 10 litres of compost per shrub to enrich the soil.

Preventive treatments

• To prevent diseases , ensure good ventilation of the plants by pruning them regularly .
• Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and reduce weed competition.
• Promote biodiversity by planting companion plants such as garlic or chives , which have natural fungicidal properties .

Curative treatments

• In case of fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, a sulfur-based treatment can be effective.
• To fight against aphids , use black soap or introduce ladybugs , natural predators.
• Against the blackberry worm (Byturus tomentosus) , tansy manure can be used as a preventative and curative.

Size

• Perform annual pruning in winter , from December to February, during the dormant period.
• Remove dead, diseased or damaged branches to encourage the growth of new, healthy shoots.
• For everbearing varieties , adjust pruning to encourage production on floricannes and primocanes .

By following these maintenance recommendations, you will optimize the health and productivity of your mulberry trees. Remember to adapt these practices according to local climatic conditions and the specific needs of your varieties.

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Mulberry pruning techniques: controlling production and vigor in professional cultivation

Pruning and training mulberry trees are essential to optimize their growth and production . Here are the specific techniques recommended for professional growers:

Training size

For young mulberry trees , formative pruning aims to establish a solid and balanced structure . From the first year of planting, select 3 to 5 main branches well distributed around the trunk. Remove branches that grow inward or that cross to promote good aeration of the structure. This initial pruning helps guide growth towards a harmonious and productive shape.

Maintenance size

Perform maintenance pruning annually , preferably in winter when the tree is dormant. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to stimulate the growth of healthy new shoots. For non-remontant varieties , cut back the previous year's fruiting stems to ground level , retaining only vigorous new shoots that will produce the following year.

Fruiting size

To stimulate fruit production , practice specific fruiting pruning. On everbearing varieties like 'Reuben', cut back the stems that produced fruit in the fall to about 30 cm from the ground in early spring. This technique encourages abundant production on new shoots .

Thinning

Thinning is crucial to maintain good ventilation and optimal light exposure. Remove about a third of the new shoots in spring , keeping the strongest and best positioned ones. This practice results in larger, better-quality fruit .

Trellising

Training is essential for climbing varieties . Install a system of horizontal wires spaced 30 to 40 cm apart , starting 50 cm from the ground. Tie new shoots to the wires as they grow to make management and harvesting easier .

Size in green

During the growing season, practice light green pruning to remove weak or misplaced shoots . This technique helps focus the plant's energy on the fruits and main shoots.

By applying these specific pruning techniques , mulberry growers can significantly improve the growth and production of their plants. Proper pruning not only promotes better fruiting , but also increased disease resistance and longer plant life .

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Mulberry tree diseases: identification, prevention and effective treatments in professional cultivation

Mulberry trees are generally hardy plants , but they can be affected by certain diseases. Here are the main common mulberry tree diseases , their quick identification and appropriate solutions:

Anthracnose

Symptoms : Brown spots on leaves, deformation and early leaf fall, weakened growth.

• Organic : Application of nettle manure as a preventative measure, collection and destruction of dead leaves.
• Conventional : Copper-based fungicide treatment (Bordeaux mixture) in spring and autumn.

Colored canker

Symptoms : Purplish necrosis under the bark, rapid progression, fatal in 3 to 5 years.

• Biological : Regular monitoring, pruning of affected parts with disinfection of tools.
• Conventional : Mandatory felling of infected trees to prevent spread.

Powdery mildew

Symptoms : White felting on the leaves, characteristic powdery appearance.

• Biological : Spraying of baking soda diluted in water, application of horsetail manure.
• Conventional : Sulfur-based fungicide treatment.

Verticillium wilt

Symptoms : Wilting of branches, progressive drying out.

• Organic : Strengthening plant vigor through appropriate fertilization, avoiding water stress.
• Conventional : Pruning of affected parts, application of systemic fungicides in case of severe infection.

Rust

Symptoms : Orange pustules on the underside of the leaves.

• Organic : Spraying with horsetail manure or garlic decoction.
• Conventional : Application of fungicides based on mancozeb or myclobutanil.

General prevention

For effective disease management, it is crucial to adopt a preventative approach :

• Choose varieties that are resistant to diseases common in your area.
• Ensure good ventilation of the plants by regular pruning.
• Avoid excess moisture by adjusting watering and mulching the soil.
• Practice crop rotation for mulberry trees grown in pots.
• Strengthen the natural resistance of plants through balanced fertilization.

If in doubt about the identification of a disease, it is recommended to consult an expert or send a sample to a specialized laboratory to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.

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Mulberry pests: identification, prevention and integrated control in sustainable production

Mulberry trees can be affected by several pests and parasites that threaten their health and productivity. Early identification and an integrated pest management approach are essential to effectively protect crops. Here are the main pests to watch for and recommended prevention and control methods :

Aphids

• Identification : Small green, black or brown insects, often grouped on young shoots and under leaves.
• Prevention : Encourage the presence of natural helpers such as ladybugs and lacewings.
• Control : Spraying with diluted black soap, introducing ladybug larvae, using nettle manure as a preventative measure.

Scale insects

• Identification : Small, immobile insects forming white or brown shields on stems and leaves.
• Prevention : Regular inspection of plants, manual elimination of the first infestations.
• Control : Application of rapeseed or neem oil, use of specific parasites such as Aphytis melinus .

Blackberry worm (Byturus tomentosus)

• Identification : Small white larvae in the fruits, yellowish-brown adults.
• Prevention : Installation of pheromone traps to detect the first adults.
• Control : Use of insect nets, application of Bacillus thuringiensis in case of heavy infestation.

Drosophila suzukii

• Identification : Small fly that lays eggs in ripe fruit, causing it to rot.
• Prevention : Frequent and complete harvesting of fruit, removal of fruit that has fallen to the ground.
• Control : Installation of attractive traps, use of fine mesh nets (< 1 mm).

Spider mites

• Identification : Tiny arachnids that cause leaves to turn brown, visible under a magnifying glass.
• Prevention : Maintain good ambient humidity, regular watering of the foliage.
• Control : Release of predatory mites ( Phytoseiulus persimilis ), spraying of neem oil.

Recommended integrated approach

For effective protection, adopt an integrated pest management strategy :

• Regular monitoring : Inspect your plants frequently to quickly detect the first signs of infestation.
• Cultivation methods : Promote biodiversity in your plot by planting companion species that attract natural auxiliaries.
• Physical barriers : Use insect netting to protect crops from flying pests.
• Biological control : Introduce natural predators specific to identified pests.
• Natural treatments : Favor plant-based preparations (purines, decoctions) and biocontrol products.
• Chemical treatments : As a last resort, use approved plant protection products, respecting the recommended doses and application periods.

By combining these different approaches and remaining vigilant, mulberry growers can significantly reduce the impact of pests on their crops, while minimizing the use of chemicals . This strategy is part of a sustainable and environmentally friendly production approach .

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Optimal Blackberry Harvest: Techniques and Tips for Maximum Commercial Quality

Harvesting blackberries is a crucial step in ensuring the commercial quality of the fruit . Here are the key points to consider for efficient harvesting while preserving the quality of blackberries:

Harvest period

The blackberry harvest season generally runs from July to September , depending on the variety and region. Early varieties like 'Black Bute' begin producing as early as mid-June, while late varieties like 'Smoothstem' can fruit as late as October.

Signs of maturity

Harvest blackberries when they are completely black and shiny . Ripe fruits easily detach from the plant with a gentle pull. Avoid picking fruits that are still red or partially black, as they will not ripen after harvest .

Harvesting technique

To preserve the quality of the fruit , handle it with care. Pick the blackberries one by one , gently grasping them between your thumb and forefinger. Avoid squeezing or crushing the fruit, which is very fragile.

Time of day

Harvest early in the morning when the fruit is still fresh and firm. This makes handling easier and extends the shelf life of the blackberries.

Harvest frequency

During the production period, harvest every two to three days to obtain fruit at its optimal point of ripeness . Regular harvesting also stimulates the production of new fruit.

Equipment

• Use baskets or shallow containers to prevent the fruit from crushing under its own weight.
• For larger farms, harvest assistance platforms can be used to improve efficiency.

Sorting and storage

• Sort fruit immediately after harvest to remove damaged or overripe fruit.
• Cool blackberries quickly to slow their deterioration, ideally by placing them in the refrigerator.

Large-scale harvesting methods

For large commercial plantations, the shaking harvest method can be used. Spread sheets or tarps under the trees and gently shake the branches to release the ripe fruit.

By following these recommendations, blackberry growers can maximize their harvest while maintaining the commercial quality of the fruit . Careful and timely harvesting is essential to providing fresh and flavorful blackberries to consumers.

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Effective methods of mulberry propagation in professional production

Mulberry propagation can be done using a variety of methods, each with specific advantages and limitations in commercial production. Here is an overview of the most common techniques :

1. Cuttings

Cuttings consist of taking a fragment of stem, leaf or root from a mulberry tree to produce a new plant identical to the mother plant.

Benefits :

• Allows rapid and economical multiplication.
• Simple technique , suitable for woody varieties such as mulberry trees, particularly in autumn for mature stems.
• Ideal for preserving the genetic characteristics of a specific variety.

Boundaries :

• Requires controlled conditions (constant humidity, suitable substrate) to ensure a good recovery rate.
• Less effective for varieties with very soft wood or wood that is difficult to root.

2. Layering

Layering involves burying a flexible branch without detaching it from the mother plant, so that it develops its own roots before being weaned.

Benefits :

• Easy and safe technique , ideal for shrubs with flexible branches such as black mulberry.
• Does not require complex equipment or specific conditions.
• Allows aging plants to be regularly renewed , particularly every 8 years to maintain productivity.

Boundaries :

• Less profitable in terms of quantity of plants produced compared to cuttings or division.
• Optimal period (autumn) limits the flexibility of the multiplication schedule.

3. Division

Division involves separating a stump into several fragments, each with roots and a bud, to create new plants.

Benefits :

• Fast and effective technique for multiplying perennial or rhizomatous strains.
• Allows you to rejuvenate flowerbeds by removing old and less productive parts.

Boundaries :

• Suitable only for mulberry trees with a well-developed or rhizomatous root system.
• May stress the mother plant if divided too frequently or without proper care.

Professional recommendations

For profitable market gardening production , the choice of method will depend on the specific objectives:

• Cuttings are recommended to maximize the number of plants over a short period of time.
• Layering is best suited for small farms seeking gradual and risk-free propagation.
• Division remains an effective option but is more limited to suitable strains.

Make sure to use an enriched substrate (peat and compost) and maintain regular irrigation to optimize the success of the young plants.

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Understanding the botanical species of the mulberry tree to optimize its professional cultivation

A species is a fundamental concept in biology that refers to a group of individuals capable of reproducing among themselves and producing viable and fertile offspring under natural conditions. In the case of mulberries, these are trees or shrubs of the genus Morus , belonging to the Moraceae family.

Botanical classification of mulberry trees

• Kingdom : Plantae (Plant)
• Phylum : Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
• Subphylum : Angiosperms (Flowering plants)
• Class : Dicotyledons (Magnoliopsida)
• Order : Rosales
• Family : Moraceae
• Genre : Morus

The main cultivated mulberry species are:

• Morus alba (white mulberry)
• Morus nigra (black mulberry)
• Morus rubra (red mulberry)

Main biological characteristics

Morphology

Mulberry trees are deciduous trees or shrubs , with bark that is usually gray or light brown. Their leaves are alternate, simple , and often lobed.

Reproduction

Mulberry trees are generally dioecious (separate male and female plants), but some varieties are monoecious . Pollination is mainly anemophilous (by the wind).

Fruit

The fruit of the mulberry tree , called blackberry, is in reality a compound fruit (syncarp) formed by the agglomeration of small drupes.

Adaptation

Mulberry trees are hardy plants , able to adapt to various types of soils and climates , although they prefer well-drained soils and a sunny exposure .

Growth

They are relatively fast growing and can live for several decades with proper care .

Special features

Some species of mulberry, notably Morus alba , were historically cultivated for their leaves , used in silkworm breeding .

As woody plants producing edible fruits , mulberry trees occupy an important place in horticulture and agriculture . Their professional cultivation requires a thorough understanding of their biological characteristics to optimize fruit production and quality.

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Origins and history of the mulberry tree: from silk to modern fruit production

The history of the mulberry tree is closely linked to that of sericulture , the breeding of silkworms. Native to Asia , the mulberry tree has played a crucial role in the economic and cultural development of many civilizations.

Asian origins

The earliest evidence of mulberry cultivation dates back to ancient China , more than 4,000 years ago. The white mulberry (Morus alba) , in particular, was cultivated for its leaves, which were used to feed silkworms . Legend attributes the discovery of silk to Empress Xi Ling-Shi , who observed a cocoon fall into her teacup under a mulberry tree.

Silk Road Broadcasting

Mulberry cultivation gradually spread along the famous Silk Road , reaching the Near East during the Middle Ages. In Europe, the first white mulberry trees are mentioned in Provence in the 13th century , marking the beginning of the silk industry in Western Europe .

Development in France

In France, silk production first developed in Provence and the Cévennes during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In the 16th century, under the leadership of King Francis I , mulberry cultivation spread to the Lyon region. It was at the beginning of the 17th century that sericulture really took off in France.

Expansion policies

The expansion of mulberry cultivation was encouraged by mercantilist policies . Under Henry IV , measures were taken to spread mulberry cultivation in the northern half of France, accompanied by efforts to train rural populations in the cultivation and breeding of silkworms.

"Muriomania" in the 18th century

Between 1740 and 1770 , a veritable mulberry mania took hold in France. Around twenty printed treatises were devoted to mulberry cultivation. It was also during this period that a system of public nurseries was set up to distribute plants free of charge to volunteers.

The mulberry tree today

Although the economic importance of the mulberry tree declined with the , these trees continue to be cultivated for their fruit and ornamental value . Today, the mulberry tree is valued in many parts of the world for:

• Its tasty fruits
• Its role in agroforestry
• Its place in urban ecosystems

This rich history illustrates how the mulberry tree, first cultivated for its leaves, became a valued fruit and ornamental tree , testifying to the evolution of agricultural practices and cultural exchanges over the centuries.