Amplification of Local Mulberry Pollen by Import to Southern Ontario

Abstract

White Mulberrry (Morus alba) is invasive throughout Midwest, Central and Eastern USA extending into adjoining areas of Canada. Red Mulberry, a native of the Carolinian forest, is rarely found. Morus alba was introduced from Asia in colonial times to establish a silkworm industry. Mulberry cultivars have also become popular for ornamentals in urban settings. Mulberry is, by far, usually the most prevalent type of pollen in our area, whereas the preponderance of Mulberry trees is far less than pollen levels suggest.