Suitable Varieties of Mulberry: Mulberry (Morus spp.) is a commonly cultivated plant in India, primarily for sericulture (silk production). There are several varieties of mulberry suitable for cultivation in different regions of India, considering factors such as climate, soil conditions, and local requirements.
Suitable Varieties of Mulberry
There are a number of mulberry varieties suitable for cultivation in India. The best variety to choose will depend on a number of factors, including the climate, region, and purpose of cultivation. Here are some popular varieties of mulberry that are commonly grown in India. ‘Suitable Varieties of Mulberry’
S-36 (Morus alba):
S-36 is a widely cultivated variety of mulberry in India. It is known for its high yield and adaptability to different agro-climatic conditions. S-36 is preferred for sericulture due to its leaf quality, which is suitable for silkworm rearing. ‘Suitable Varieties of Mulberry’
- The leaves are heart shaped, thick and light green with glowing nature.
- The leaves have high moisture and more nutrient content.
- About 15,000 to 18,000 Kg of mulberry leaf per year from one acre.
V-1 (Morus alba):
V-1 is another popular mulberry variety in India, particularly in the southern regions. It is highly productive and has good leaf quality for sericulture purposes. V-1 is tolerant to various climatic conditions and is resistant to diseases. ‘Suitable Varieties of Mulberry’
- This variety was released during 1997 and very popular in the field.
- The leaves are oval, broad in shape, thick, succulent and dark green
- About 20,000 to 24,000 Kg of mulberry leaf yield can be obtained in a year.
S-1635 (Morus indica):
S-1635 is a mulberry variety that is well-suited for rainfed conditions. It is resistant to drought and has good leaf yield. S-1635 is suitable for areas with limited irrigation facilities or erratic rainfall patterns. ‘Suitable Varieties of Mulberry’
M-5 (Morus alba):
M-5 is a mulberry variety preferred for its high leaf yield. It is suitable for silkworm rearing and sericulture activities. M-5 has good adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions, making it a popular choice in different regions of India.
K2 (Morus alba):
K2 is a mulberry variety cultivated in the hilly regions of India, such as the Himalayan foothills. It is known for its cold tolerance and is suitable for areas with cooler climates. K2 has good leaf quality and is preferred for sericulture purposes in these regions.
These are just a few examples of mulberry varieties cultivated in India. It is important to note that the suitability of a particular variety may vary depending on the specific region, climate, and intended use (e.g., sericulture, horticulture). It is advisable to consult local agriculture experts, sericulture departments, or mulberry nurseries in your area to determine the most suitable mulberry varieties for cultivation based on your specific location and requirements. ‘Suitable Varieties of Mulberry’
Mulberry, Morus sp, is the most prominent and importantly nutritious food for silkworms that sheds their leaves once a year and they tend to live a long life as a bush, middle bush, and tree depending on the climatic condition for the production of quality leaves that helps in silk rearing.
In India, Importatn varieties which are commonly used such as V1 and S-36 varieties are the high yielding mulberry which is highly suitable for silkworm rearing. These two varieties produce high nutritive leaf, which is essential for good growth of silkworm larvae. ‘Suitable Varieties of Mulberry’
How to choose right Mulberry Variety for Cultivation
There are a number of mulberry varieties that are cultivated in India. The best way to choose the right variety for your needs is to consult with a local agricultural expert.
Tips for choosing the right mulberry variety for cultivation in India:
- Consider the climate: Choose a variety that is well-suited to the climate in your area.
- Consider the region: Some varieties are better suited for certain regions than others.
- Consider the purpose of cultivation: If you are cultivating mulberry for silk production, you will need to choose a variety that produces high-quality leaves. If you are cultivating mulberry for animal feed, you may want to choose a variety that is high in protein and fiber.
Once you have chosen a variety, you can start cultivating mulberry by planting cuttings or seeds. Mulberry is a relatively easy crop to grow, and it can be grown in a variety of soil types. However, it is important to provide mulberry plants with plenty of water and sunlight. Mulberry is a valuable crop that can be used for a variety of purposes. By choosing the right variety and cultivating it properly, you can ensure a successful harvest.