Mulberries are found from temperate to subtropical regions of the Northern hemisphere to the tropics of the Southern hemisphere and they can grow in a wide range of climatic, topographical and soil conditions. Mulberry trees are extensively grown (e.g. in China, India) for their leaves as foods for silkworms. However, in some countries, particularly in Turkey they are grown for only fruit production. Mulberry fruits are valued for its high nutritive and medicinal value. More recently quite extensive research on mulberries covering development of new varieties, production technologies, crop protection measures and post harvest etc is being carried out in many parts of the world. Most of these findings remain at regional level and in order to bring limelight to these findings at global level, a common platform is required.

In this context, International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) in collaboration with Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey is organizing First International Symposium on Mulberry at Erzurum, Turkey during 14-17 June, 2012.

The organizers of this symposium cordially invite everyone involved in mulberry research, extension, education, trade and commerce to be present at this meeting to share their experiences and build up the fraternity and network for advancement of this important fruit. The symposium will consist of three days of technical proceedings with a one-day post symposium tour. A strong scientific program will be presented with invited speakers/ several high-quality oral presentations to address the latest progress made in research on mulberry. In addition, a comprehensive poster session will allow delegates to present their own research results.

The Symposium will be held in Erzurum (Turkey) from June 14-17, 2012. The Province of Erzurum is one of the important mulberry producing area in Turkey.

The main topics to be discussed are:

-Biology and physiology

-Orchard design and management

-Fruit technology: quality, post-harvest and processing

-Fruit and human health benefits

-Cultivars, rootstocks, propagation and breeding

-Socio-economic aspects and marketing

-Plant protection: pests and diseases

-Sericulturae

The Symposium will have a scientific programme consisting of plenary lectures, oral communications and posters. In addition, there will be a post symposium tour, specialized field excursions. In this tour participants will have the opportunity to visit the mulberry orchards in Coruh valley.