Troubleshooting
Ugni problems — and how to fix them
Ugni (Ugni molinae) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Drought stress
Containers and shallow-rooted plants drop leaves and fruit if allowed to dry out; keep evenly moist and mulch to conserve moisture.
Lime-induced chlorosis
Yellowing leaves on alkaline soil because this myrtle dislikes lime; grow in acidic to neutral conditions and use ericaceous feed.
Poor fruiting
Too much shade or cold, dull summers reduce berry set; site in full sun in a sheltered, warm position.
Frost damage to young growth
Hardy to roughly -5°C but tender new shoots can be nipped by late frost; shelter from cold winds and protect young plants.
Prevent ugni problems before they start
Most ugni issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for ugni in general rather than its problems? Read the full ugni care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Ugni problems — FAQ
Why is my ugni drought stress?
Containers and shallow-rooted plants drop leaves and fruit if allowed to dry out; keep evenly moist and mulch to conserve moisture.
Why is my ugni lime-induced chlorosis?
Yellowing leaves on alkaline soil because this myrtle dislikes lime; grow in acidic to neutral conditions and use ericaceous feed.
Why is my ugni poor fruiting?
Too much shade or cold, dull summers reduce berry set; site in full sun in a sheltered, warm position.
Why is my ugni frost damage to young growth?
Hardy to roughly -5°C but tender new shoots can be nipped by late frost; shelter from cold winds and protect young plants.