PRODUÇÃO DE MIRTILOS NO RIO GRANDE DO SUL: UM MERCADO EM POTENCIAL PARA A AGRICULTURA FAMILIAR

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.44824080710

• Palavras-chave: Fruticultura; Vaccinium sp; Ericaceae; Pequenas Frutas

• Keywords: Orcharding; Vaccinium sp; Ericaceae; Berries

• Abstract: The blueberry (Vaccinium sp.) is characterized as a fruit originating from temperate climates, where the number of hours with ≤7,2°C for its development are naturally achieved. In Brazil, the introduction of cultivars with lower chilling hours requirements, such as those belonging to the Highbush and the Rabbiteye groups, made the blueberry cultivation feasible, particularly in the southern region of the country. Currently, Rio Grande do Sul is the largest producer of blueberries, and from a climatic perspective, the state has potential for expansion into other regions beyond the areas where this kind of cultivation is already traditional. The high profitability per area, combined with its nutraceutical properties, makes the blueberry an attractive alternative for diversifying income sources for small farmers. However, some obstacles limit the expansion of blueberry production, such as the scarcity of qualified technical assistance, the availability of seedlings, and the costs of establishing orchards. Thus, the present paper is characterized as a literature review about blueberry cultivation, its botanic characteristics, edaphoclimatic requirements, adaptation to the climate of Rio Grande do Sul, and the challenges associated with this crop.