Page 14 2025 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2025 Mulberries Mulberry trees are a common sight in Illinois gardens. These trees produce sweet, juicy berries that can be eaten fresh or used in pies, jams, and wines. Keep in mind that under ripen berries can cause stomach aches, the sap can be considered toxic, and this tree can grow quite large which can live hundreds of years. Birds and other pests also love this tree as well, so make sure to plant in an area away from the house or sidewalks due to the bird population and because the berries will fall to the ground creating a mess. Soil: Mulberries prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Make sure to plant them far away from foundations and are drought tolerant. Planting/Harvesting Time: Mulberry trees should be planted in the spring. The tree will produce flowers in the early spring with both male and female blooms. These resemble blackberries and will ripen in stages. The berries will drop from the tree as they mature. Maintenance: They are low-maintenance and can grow quite large, providing shade and fruit for many years. Pruning, mulching, and controlling any unwanted pests and diseases are needed for the tree’s overall success. Serviceberries Serviceberries, also known as Juneberries, are native to Illinois and produce small, sweet berries in early summer. Soil/Growth: This showstopping shrub has a beautiful small white flower in May that attracts bees and other pollinators. The berries Continued --
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