Mulberry farming plays a vital role in agriculture due to its direct connection with sericulture and silk production. Mulberry leaves are the primary food source for silkworms, making this crop the backbone of the silk industry.

India is one of the largest producers of silk in the world, and mulberry cultivation supports the livelihood of thousands of farmers, especially in rural areas. With increasing demand for natural silk and growing awareness of sustainable farming, mulberry farming has emerged as a profitable and long-term agricultural opportunity.

This article explains mulberry farming in detail, including climate and soil requirements, cultivation practices, irrigation, nutrient management, pest control, harvesting, yield, and profitability. It also highlights the importance of farm mechanization, with a specific focus on the Mahindra 575 DI tractor.

Importance of Mulberry Farming

Mulberry farming is not limited to crop production; it is an integrated agricultural system that supports sericulture. States such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, and Jammu & Kashmir are major mulberry-growing regions in India. The steady demand for mulberry leaves ensures continuous income for farmers involved in silkworm rearing.

In addition to silk production, mulberry plants have multiple uses. Mulberry fruits are consumed fresh and used in jams, juices, and herbal products. The leaves, bark, and roots also have medicinal value and are used in traditional medicine. This multi-purpose nature of mulberry makes it an economically valuable crop.

Climate Requirements for Mulberry Cultivation

Mulberry plants grow well in tropical and subtropical climates. The ideal temperature range for mulberry farming is between 24°C and 28°C. However, the plant can tolerate temperatures from 15°C to 38°C under suitable management practices. Adequate sunlight is essential for proper leaf development.

An annual rainfall of 600–1000 mm is considered ideal for mulberry cultivation. In areas with lower rainfall, irrigation becomes necessary to maintain leaf quality and yield. Excessive rainfall or waterlogging should be avoided, as it can lead to root diseases and reduced productivity.

Soil Requirements

Mulberry can be grown in a variety of soils, but well-drained loamy or sandy loam soils rich in organic matter are most suitable. The soil should have good moisture-holding capacity while allowing proper drainage. A soil pH range of 6.2 to 6.8 is considered ideal for healthy plant growth.

Before planting, soil testing is recommended to determine nutrient status and pH levels. This helps farmers apply the right amount of fertilizers and amendments, ensuring better crop establishment and long-term productivity.

Land Preparation

Proper land preparation is essential for successful mulberry farming. The field should be ploughed two to three times to achieve a fine tilth. This improves soil aeration and root penetration. Weeds, stones, and previous crop residues should be removed from the field.

During land preparation, organic manure such as farmyard manure or compost should be incorporated into the soil. This improves soil fertility and enhances microbial activity, which is beneficial for plant growth.

Planting Material and Planting Method

Mulberry is commonly propagated through stem cuttings or saplings. Healthy, disease-free planting material should be selected from certified nurseries. Cuttings are usually 15–20 cm long and contain at least three healthy buds.

Planting can be done using the bush system or tree system. The bush system is widely adopted for sericulture, as it allows easy harvesting and higher leaf yield. Spacing of about 3 x 3 feet is commonly followed. Planting is preferably done during the monsoon season to ensure adequate soil moisture for early establishment.

Irrigation Management

Mulberry is a water-demanding crop, particularly during the early growth and leaf production stages. Regular irrigation is required to maintain consistent leaf yield. In summer, irrigation may be needed every 7–10 days, while in winter, the interval can be extended.

Drip irrigation is highly recommended for mulberry farming. It saves water, reduces weed growth, and improves nutrient absorption. Proper irrigation management directly influences leaf quality, which is crucial for silkworm health and silk production.

Nutrient Management

Continuous harvesting of leaves makes mulberry a nutrient-exhaustive crop. Balanced application of fertilizers is necessary to maintain soil fertility and sustain high productivity. Nitrogen plays a key role in leaf growth, while phosphorus and potassium support root development and plant strength.

Organic inputs such as vermicompost, green manure, and biofertilizers can be used along with chemical fertilizers for integrated nutrient management. This approach improves soil health and ensures sustainable farming over the long term.

Pest and Disease Management

Mulberry plants are susceptible to several pests and diseases that can affect leaf quality and yield. Common pests include leaf roller, thrips, and mealybugs. Diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot are also observed in mulberry cultivation.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices should be followed to control these problems. This includes regular monitoring, proper pruning, use of resistant varieties, and minimal use of chemical pesticides. Chemical sprays should be applied carefully, as pesticide residues on leaves can harm silkworms.

Role of Mahindra 575 DI Tractor in Mulberry Farming

Farm mechanization plays a crucial role in improving efficiency and reducing labor costs in mulberry farming. The Mahindra 575 DI tractor is a popular and reliable choice among Indian farmers due to its powerful performance, fuel efficiency, and durability. With its 45 HP engine, the Mahindra 575 DI is well-suited for land preparation, ploughing, intercultural operations, and transportation of manure and harvested leaves. Its strong hydraulics and stable build make it ideal for operating implements such as cultivators, rotavators, and trailers in mulberry fields. By using the Mahindra 575 DI tractor, farmers can save time, reduce dependency on manual labor, and improve overall farm productivity, making mulberry cultivation more cost-effective.

Pruning and Harvesting

Pruning is an important practice in mulberry farming, as it promotes new shoot growth and improves leaf yield. The first harvest is usually done 60–70 days after planting. Subsequent harvests can be taken at intervals of 45–50 days, depending on climatic conditions and plant growth.

Leaves should be harvested carefully to avoid damaging the plant. Proper pruning and harvesting techniques ensure uniform leaf size and better quality, which directly affects silkworm growth and cocoon production.

Yield and Productivity

With proper management practices, mulberry farming can produce 25–30 tonnes of leaves per hectare per year. Improved varieties and scientific cultivation methods can further increase yield. Consistent irrigation, balanced nutrition, and effective pest management are key factors influencing productivity.

Higher leaf yield and quality lead to better cocoon production and improved income for farmers engaged in sericulture.

Profitability and Market Potential

Mulberry farming offers stable and recurring income, especially when combined with silkworm rearing. Government support in the form of subsidies, training programs, and technical guidance further enhances profitability. The growing demand for silk in domestic and international markets ensures long-term market potential.

Farmers who adopt modern cultivation practices and use reliable machinery can achieve higher returns and sustainable growth.

Conclusion        

Mulberry farming is a highly rewarding agricultural activity that supports the silk industry and rural livelihoods. With proper soil preparation, irrigation, nutrient management, pest control, and scientific farming practices, farmers can achieve consistent and profitable yields. The use of efficient farm machinery such as the Mahindra 575 DI tractor further improves productivity and reduces labor costs. As demand for silk continues to grow, mulberry farming remains a promising and future-ready farming option for Indian farmers.