QuestionWe have a fruitless mullberry tree that is 65 to 70 years old. It is beginning decay. Do you have any suggestions on how we might be able to save the tree?
AnswerKathy:
Unfortunately, there is not a magic bullet. The decay is often a slow, yet progressive decline. It will ultimately weaken the tree to the point at which it will fail. Other than watering in times of hot/dry weather conditions and fertilizing according to a recent soil test, that is about it. Watch the tree each spring to see how it leafs out. If it starts to develop a thinned appearance with lots of dead branches, it may be time to consider making firewood from it, especially if it poses a potential danger to your home or someone's property.
Steve