Mulberry Tree Leaves Turning Yellow (5 Reasons explained)

Mulberries are the best kind of tree for the backyard. But it contains fruit as well. But whether it’s planted for fruit or shade, leaves getting yellowing is a valid concern. 

The plant can even lose a large number of leaves. This problem can even lead to some serious consequences. Hence, it must be checked in time. 

So, why are the mulberry leaves turning yellow? 

Vast-rooted mulberry tree leaves can turn yellow due to inadequate watering. They need a large amount of water to survive. Also, fungal leaf scar and cotton root rot can cause yellowing too. Lastly, nematodes attacking the plant and lack of necessary nutrients can cause the leaves yellowing too. 

This is the primary outline of the issue. For a better understanding of this grave problem, you need more information. Hence, stick with us till the end.   

Why Are Mulberry Tree Leaves Turning Yellow?

Mulberry is an extremely popular landscape tree. It can provide your garden space with shade and a blissful view. Its beauty mostly depends on its leaves. 

Its leaves have quite a variety of size and shape that gives it a distinct outlook. So, the change of color and falling off ruins it massively. 

Moreover, it can be a sign of serious diseases or pest attacks. Hence, the treatment is much needed. 

Therefore, we added these 5 reasons behind this problem. Check them one by one to solve this issue. Otherwise, it can turn into a serious problem. Here goes the list-

Reason 1 of 5: Underwatering

Mulberry grows rapidly and has a massive root system. Hence, they need a lot of water. At the same time, the need for water increases with every passing year. Moreover, this plant is prone to drought. 

Hence, it needs more water during the dry season. Without getting an adequate amount of water, the leaves start to turn yellow. 

Solution 

As it has huge roots. Therefore deep root watering is the best way to save your plant. Moreover, maintain a watering routine that includes watering it once a week.  

Reason 2 of 5: Leaf Spot Disease

This is one of the most serious issues which is mainly caused by fungi. It can be identified by the yellowed and malformed leaves. 

You can even find some black spots as well. This disease can be contagious and spread from one tree to another. 

Solution

This problem can be treated with fungicide. Moreover, you need to clean and dispose of the fallen leaves. Use a broom to clean and then pack them in a trash bag. 

These leaves can start a new circle of this fungal disease during the Spring. Hence getting rid of them completely is much needed. 

In case you’re wondering which fungicide will be the best for your mulberry tree. We’ve added this list that has all our best picks. It’ll help you to get rid of this problem easily.

Just choose one from here. These are literally our favorites and will help you as well. 

Reason 3 of 5: Cotton Root Rot

Another fungal disease that can cause the leaves to turn yellow is this. The cotton root rot can be easily detected by leaves wilting. But sadly, this problem can affect your plant too severely before showing the symptoms. 

Solution

As most of the time, the situation gets out of hand when it shows the signs. Hence, solving it at home is kind of impossible. 

Therefore, your only option is to consult an arborist for expert opinion. 

Reason 4 of 5: Pest Attacking 

Mainly nematodes attack the roots of mulberries and damage them. They start feeding on the roots which makes it tough for the plant to take in nutrients. 

This damage can affect the tree causing symptoms like yellowing, wilting, and loss of vigor. 

Solution

This problem is a bit hard to control. Solarization can be a good solution. This is the process of using the sun’s power to control pests and bacteria. 

Apart from this, you can also try proper sanitation practices like changing contaminated soil.

Reason 5 of 5: Lack of Nutrients  

Lack of nutrition can cause the mulberry tree leaves to turn yellow. The veins turn yellow due to iron chlorosis. If the entire leaf turns yellow, that’s due to a lack of potassium or nitrogen. 

Solution

You must provide your plants the necessary nutrition. Consult an expert to know which nutrient is to be provided in which way. And then do what’s suggested accordingly. 

These are the most probable reasons for your mulberry tree leaves to turn yellow. No matter what’s the reason behind it, we hope your plant will recover soon. It should just bounce back to a healthy state with proper care.   

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why is my mulberry tree losing leaves?

Answer: Mulberry has this tendency of losing their leaves in a few episodes. They do it as a regular occurrence. At least once a year they allow the leaves to get separate from the twigs. It mostly happens during the frost as a form of cleaning. 

Question: How long does a mulberry tree live?

Answer: Mostly, mulberry trees live around 25 to 50 years on average. But improper maintenance, inadequate watering, and diseases can shorten the span. But some varieties of mulberry have a higher lifespan. White mulberry trees can live up to 100 years. Red mulberries can live around 75 years. 

Question: Are mulberries toxic to humans?

Answer: Parts of mulberry that contain latex are toxic for humans. But the ripe fruit is consumable. But as a matter of fact, unripe fruit is also quite bad for humans. It can upset your stomach and stimulate hallucinations.

Final Note 

It’s time for parting ways. Hope this post helps you to know why your mulberry tree leaves turning yellow. 

So, solve your problem according to the given list of reasons. Hope your garden fills up with beautiful-looking mulberry trees with healthy leaves.

Wishing you good luck on this. Happy gardening!