Water and Nutrient Management in mulberry: A Review

Abstract

Mulberry (Morus spp.) is the sole food source for the silkworm Bombyx mori L., and the productivity and quality of mulberry leaves directly influence the cocoon yield and silk production. Efficient management of water and nutrients is therefore essential for sustaining mulberry productivity under changing climatic conditions and increasing resource constraints. This review summarizes the factors influencing water use efficiency (WUE) and nutrient use efficiency (NUE) in mulberry cultivation, including crop genotype, soil characteristics, climate, irrigation practices and nutrient management strategies. Recent advances in irrigation methods such as drip and subsurface drip irrigation, sensor-based irrigation and hydrogel application have significantly improved water productivity and reduced irrigation requirements. Similarly, integrated nutrient management practices including balanced fertilization, fertigation, micronutrient supplementation and biofertilizers have enhanced leaf yield, leaf quality and nutrient uptake efficiency. Studies also highlight the role of improved genotypes, organic inputs and precision agriculture technologies in optimizing resource use efficiency. Overall, efficient water and nutrient management practices play a crucial role in improving mulberry growth, leaf productivity and cocoon yield while ensuring sustainable sericulture production system.