Foliage

• Mulberries are often grown for their deeply lobed or oval, glossy-green leaves. The leaves turn bright yellow in the fall, adding color to an otherwise drab landscape. Mulberry trees are susceptible to leafrollers, bacterial leaf scorch, and root rot or wood rot. Clean up debris in the fall so diseases and pests don't overwinter in the leaves.
  
  

Fruit

• Some home gardeners opt to plant sterile or fruitless mulberry trees. Late summer to early fall is harvest time for fruiting mulberry trees. The fruit ripens to black or red, resembling blackberries in appearance and use. Mulberry fruit have a red pigment that stains sidewalks, cars or patio furniture. Plant fruitful mulberry trees away from hard surfaces and harvest it regularly so it doesn't drop and leave a mess. Birds and wildlife enjoy the fruit.
  
  

Wood and Bark

• The mulberry tree's wood and bark are dull gray or brown, thin and ridged. It is not particularly interesting in the fall and winter. The bark on some varieties may peel off. Some mulberry trees have a weeping form that becomes more apparent after the leaves fall from the tree.
  
  

Fall Care

• Mulberry trees need little maintenance. Reducing water in the early fall encourages the tree into dormancy. Do not fertilize the tree in late summer or fall, which promotes new growth. Wait to prune the tree until the following spring for the same reason.