Cultivating Murtilla (*Ugni molinae*): Establishment, Agronomic Management, and Agro-industrial Potential

Propagation and Establishment of Ugni molinae: Methods and Soil Requirements

The Murtilla, or Ugni molinae, is emerging as a fruit shrub of considerable interest in Patagonia, distinguished by its aromatic berries and agronomic potential. Native to the temperate forests of Chile and Argentina, this indigenous species not only enriches local biodiversity but also offers opportunities for production diversification in regions with specific climates. Its fruit, a small berry ranging from reddish to purple, is valued for its sweet and slightly tart flavor, as well as its antioxidant and nutritional properties, driving its appreciation in both gastronomy and the functional food industry.

Propagation and initial establishment of Murtilla are critical phases for ensuring cultivation success. Direct seed sowing requires cold stratification for 2 to 3 months to break dormancy, mimicking the winter conditions of its natural habitat. Alternatively, vegetative propagation through semi-hardwood cuttings, taken in summer, shows variable rooting rates but can accelerate plant production. For transplanting, selecting robust seedlings at least 15-20 cm tall is recommended. The ideal soil for Ugni molinae should be acidic (pH 5.0-6.5), well-drained, and rich in organic matter, conditions that replicate its natural Patagonian environment. Incorporating compost or peat improves soil structure and moisture retention, essential factors for optimal root development. Full sun or partial shade exposure favors its growth, although in areas with intense summers, partial shade can prevent water stress. Recommended spacing between plants ranges from 1 to 1.5 meters, allowing for adequate shrub development and facilitating cultural practices.

Nutritional Management and Pruning for Murtilla Fruiting

Proper management of nutrition and pruning is fundamental to maximizing the productivity and health of Murtilla cultivation. Fertilization should focus on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium inputs, adapted to the shrub’s phenological stages. During budding and fruit development, a balanced fertilizer is advisable, while in autumn, phosphorus and potassium can strengthen roots and prepare the plant for winter. Monitoring foliar health and soil analysis allow for dosage adjustments to prevent deficiencies or excesses. Pruning, on the other hand, is primarily done to maintain the shrub’s shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and stimulate the production of new fruiting branches. Formative pruning in the early years helps establish a strong structure, and annual maintenance pruning, preferably after harvest, promotes plant renewal. Regarding irrigation, although Ugni molinae is resistant to drought periods once established, a regular water supply during flowering and fruit development is crucial, especially in drier climates of Argentine Patagonia. Implementing drip irrigation systems optimizes water resource use and minimizes weed proliferation.

Harvesting Murtilla fruits is done manually, usually between late summer and early autumn, depending on latitude and specific climatic conditions of the region, such as in Chubut or Río Negro. The optimal harvest point is identified by the berry’s characteristic color (intense red to dark purple) and a slight softness to the touch. Careful handling is essential to preserve the integrity of the delicate fruits. After harvest, the berries can be consumed fresh or processed into jams, juices, liqueurs, and desserts. Murtilla has captured the interest of the food industry due to its high content of polyphenols and anthocyanins, compounds with recognized antioxidant activity. Recent studies explore its application in functional and nutraceutical products, representing a growing trend in the agro-industrial sector. The search for new varieties with higher yields or disease resistance is an active area of research, with institutions like INTA exploring the potential of native fruits for production diversification in Argentina. Learn more about native Patagonian fruits.

Murtilla Berry Harvest and Processing: Agro-industrial Potential

The cultivation of Ugni molinae aligns with current trends in sustainable agriculture and the valorization of native species. Implementing agroecological practices, such as using organic fertilizers, biological pest control, and crop rotation, helps maintain ecosystem health and reduce environmental impact. Research projects are analyzing Murtilla’s response to different climate change scenarios, seeking to identify more resilient genotypes adapted to extreme conditions. Integrating Murtilla into permaculture or agroforestry systems in the Patagonian region is another development line, where the shrub can coexist with other species, enhancing biodiversity and the resilience of the production system. Valuing this native fruit involves not only its cultivation but also promoting its consumption and developing value chains that benefit local communities. Advances in plant biotechnology, such as in vitro culture, offer tools for mass multiplication of elite plants, ensuring the availability of high-quality genetic material for future cultivation expansion projects. Explore projects on native flora at the Universidad Austral de Chile.

Murtilla cultivation represents a strategic opportunity for producers in Patagonia and other regions with similar climates. Its adaptation to the environment, nutritional properties, and versatility in agro-industry position it as a crop with a promising future. Investment in research and the promotion of sustainable practices are key to unlocking the full potential of this botanical gem, contributing to food security and the conservation of regional biodiversity.