Bonsai-Seed:
White Mulberry

When propagating bonsai, the great advantage lies in the ability to influence the shape and form of the tree from the very beginning. While it takes longer to grow a tree from seed, this method allows you to put your personal touch on both the size and design early on. By using shallow bonsai pots, the plant develops a more compact growth than wild saplings found in nature.

Introduction
The White Mulberry is an ancient cultivated plant introduced to Europe in the 16th century. This deciduous tree features slightly heart-shaped leaves and is historically famous for its sweet fruits. In Greece, the tree is regarded as a symbol of wisdom. As a bonsai, it is highly valued for its dense branching and vigorous growth, making it easy to shape from an early stage.

Propagation
Propagation from seeds can be done indoors year-round. Scatter the small seeds onto moist seed-starting soil and cover them very thinly. A low-nutrient, stony soil mixed with 1/4 sand is ideal. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 5 weeks.

Location and Light
The hardy mulberry tree thrives best in a sunny, wind-protected location with fertile, well-drained soil. It grows rapidly during its initial years.

Watering and Nutrients
During the growing season, the plant should be watered regularly, ensuring that waterlogging is avoided. Flowering occurs in May and June. From May to September, apply a suitable liquid fertiliser every four weeks.

Growing Medium and Repotting
Morus alba is quite undemanding. An optimal mix consists of 60% compost soil and 40% coarse sand. Young plants should be repotted once a year. From the fourth year onwards, repotting every three years into a new bonsai pot is sufficient.

Pruning
Begin pruning at the start of the growing season. It is ideal to prune new shoots back to 2 pairs of leaves to promote a dense and compact canopy.

Winter Storage
As bonsai are grown in shallow pots, the roots are more vulnerable to cold. A bright and frost-free location is recommended for overwintering to protect the root system during extreme cold spells.

Important Growing Tips
Use professional seed-starting soil or coconut coir for sowing, as these media provide good aeration and have low nutrient content. Keep the medium evenly moist during germination – not wet. Cover the tray with clear film or glass and ventilate every three days to prevent mould. Limit direct sunlight for the first six weeks after germination. After 5–8 weeks, the seedling can be carefully transplanted. Take care not to damage the delicate new roots.