Mate grows in the subtropical region of South America. Mainly Argentina, Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. Mate is part of the Aquifoliaceae family. Only two or three variants within this family are used for mate.
Germinating Mate
Growing mate from seeds can take up to a year to germinate. Seeds need a cold stratification process before planting. Keep seeds and seedlings in a greenhouse. Look for rooting in about 12 months.
Mate leaves can be reused by topping up the brew with hot water. The flavor actually intensifies with each infusion. Leaves are dried before being stored. Mate contains caffeine, theobromine and theophylline along with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It is stimulating but not psychedelic.
The name mate means “gourd herb”. The gourd is topped off with hot water, just below boiling. The mate bags are then stored in controlled environments to properly age and develop a richer blend. This maturation process can take from 9 months to 2 years.
In the final production stage, the mate is ground again to smaller pieces from dust to a couple of millimeters.
Cultivation
Growing mate requires patience. Seeds need to be put through a cooling process before planting and can take 6 months to a year to germinate. So finding a plant cutting might be easier to get started.
Mate has been cultivated in Brazil since the 19th century. It has a long history in the country.
Knowing all stages of mate production allows you to choose mate consciously, whether organic or traditional barbacuá. Planting, processing, aging, grinding and packaging transform the mate into a delicious drink.
Yerba mate is a species of the holly genus with the botanical name Ilex paraguariensis A. It is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily in Paraguay, as well as in Argentina, Uruguay, southern and central-western Brazil, the Chaco region of Bolivia and southern Chile. Mate was first cultivated and used by the indigenous Guaraní people and in some Tupí communities in southern Brazil, prior to European colonization. The mate tree has a variety of uses and their leaves are naturally caffeinated and picked and dried for consumption.
Growing Mate
Mate trees can grow over eight meters tall. Their height depends on sunlight. Mate trees usually grow in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay. You can try growing it outdoors if your area has high temperature and humidity. Otherwise, grow it indoors above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
To store mate seeds, dry and seal them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Sow them in sterile soil. Water when the top inch becomes dry. Germinate at 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide bright, indirect light. Transplant outside after the last frost. Prune any dead or diseased branches.
Mate Cultivation
The mate plant grows along the Paraná River. It prefers mild climates. Due to growing conditions, its leaves become aromatic. The tea is a national drink in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay due to its tangy aroma. The plant takes time from cultivation to processing.
In Brazil, mate boosts energy, aids digestion, relieves nerve pain and depression, reduces fatigue, and supports weight loss. It was likely used by indigenous cultures. Traditionally, its leaves were chewed or steeped in hot water to make tea drunk from a gourd and straw.