Mulberry Trees without leaves

Question

Hello – I planted 3 mulberry trees last autumn in Greece. They were about 5-6 foot tall in their containers and had leaves when they arrived. The gardener pruned them quite a bit before the winter (which was wet but not too cold this year). Around February, the trees developed little buds but they then dried out. Nothing further happened. When cutting into the bark, the trees are alive in the sense that they are green under the bark. I am at wits end. Should I replace them but the same thing might happen with other trees. They were planted in different locations across the land, had good soil and were watered. The existing soil is quite poor in nutrients. Would they need to be heavily fertilised? Any help is appreciated! Many thanks!

Answer 1

There is not much need for extra fertilization, but it can help on occasion. Does it get below freezing in your area? They require cold to grow properly. If they do not get a full rest period, then this can happen.

Alternatively, you mention that it was wet. This is usually not a problem, but on occasion this can bring about a soil infection. This can usually be cured with dolomitic lime and wettable sulfur.

Can you include a photo? This can help me to better see what is going on here.