Harvesting paper mulberry shoots using hedge trimmers/pruning shears. One person cuts while one person collects the branches. Every year after the winter solstice, the Paper Mulberry (kōzo) shoots that have reached 2 meters and above are cut at the trunk. It’s accepted that it is best to cut it every year. If they exceed 2 or 3 years in growth, the quality of the final product drops. The branches were historically removed from the cut stalks with a small curved sickle, then bundled together, and if possible placed in a North-facing location that will not get direct sunlight.