Male Mulberry Decline in Arizona: Drought, Age, and Bark Loss

A 30–36 inch trunk male mulberry in southern Arizona (3500 ft elevation) shows vertical trunk cracks, bark peeling, and some dieback. One nearby mulberry already fell with rot at the base.

Primary Suspect: Drought Stress

Mulberries have shallow roots and suffer severely during prolonged drought. The last 1–2 dry years likely initiated decline. Cracking bark without bleeding suggests drought, not borers.

Other Factors

• Age: Fruitless mulberries live 25–40 years; fruiting types may reach 100–150 years. This tree could be nearing its lifespan.
• Poor drainage: Water pooling after rain indicates compaction. Aerate with a pitchfork and dig drainage trenches.
• Bacterial disease: Possible but less likely; consult local extension if symptoms worsen.

Management

1. Deep, slow watering every 2–3 weeks now; weekly in summer.
2. Remove very loose bark; if bark loss encircles the trunk (girdling), the tree will die.
3. Check under loose bark for insects; spray with Spinosad if found.
4. Aerate compacted soil around the root zone.

If decline continues, enjoy the tree until it becomes a hazard, then replace.