Seed collection from mulberry trees is one of the important measures for strengthening the feed base for the mulberry silkworm and plays a significant role in the development of the mulberry cultivation industry.
Under the conditions of Sughd Region, mulberry fruits generally reach full maturity in May and June. Although collecting seeds from individual fruit-bearing trees is relatively simple, the production of high-quality seeds in mother mulberry orchards requires compliance with a number of important measures.
First, fully ripe mulberry fruits are collected manually from the ground beneath the trees and then cleaned of debris and other foreign matter. The fruits are subsequently placed in large containers filled with water and left for 24 hours to soften.
Afterward, the fruits are crushed by hand directly in the water, separating the seeds from the pulp. The resulting mixture is washed 2–3 times with a large amount of water through a fine-mesh sieve.
The seeds are then rinsed with clean water, and the seeds collected on the sieve are spread out on thick paper or cotton fabric. To ensure complete drying, the seeds are periodically stirred for 4–5 days and stored in a place protected from direct sunlight.
According to available data, one mature mulberry tree grown under favorable agrotechnical conditions and with proper care produces an average of 30–60 kg of fruit. Approximately 2–3% of this fruit mass can be obtained as seeds.
