Mango trees in full bloom

Mango orchards across the Rajshahi region are witne

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Abundant blossoms raise hopes for a bumper mango harvest in Rajshahi

Visiting orchards in different areas, this correspondent observed trees laden with abundant blossoms, their branches bending under the weight, while the sweet fragrance could be felt from afar.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), nearly 72 percent of mango trees in Rajshahi district have already produced blossoms.

Across Rajshahi division, comprising Rajshahi, Naogaon, Natore and Chapainawabganj districts, mango orchards cover a total of 92,552 hectares, with around 35 crore mango trees, of which 71 percent have flowered.

Favourable weather conditions have significantly boosted prospects for a high yield, officials said.

“While the blossom is abundant, Falgun has not yet ended and storms could lead to the loss of blossoms,” said Md Mahbub, an orchard owner in Rajshahi’s Puthia upazila.

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“Still, we are hopeful for a good harvest this year,” he added.

Another orchard owner in the same area said, “Usually, mango trees blossom in phases depending on the variety. This year, almost all the trees have bloomed at the same time. Compared to last year, it feels like there are three times more blossoms.”

Dr Md Shafiqul Islam, chief scientific officer of the Rajshahi Fruit Research Centre, said the smooth transition from winter to warmer temperatures had been the key factor.

“There was no fog towards the end of winter, no rainfall, and the temperature increased gradually without sudden fluctuations. The current weather is completely suitable for flowering, and has allowed the trees to bloom in abundance,” he said.

The official noted that last year’s bloom was comparatively lower. He advised farmers to irrigate their orchards properly, and apply fungicides and insecticides at least once after flowering to preserve the blossoms.

According to official data from last season, production reached approximately 4,58,640 tonnes in Chapainawabganj, 4,21,429 tonnes in Naogaon, 2,49,953 tonnes in Rajshahi, and 72,073 tonnes in Natore.

Authorities expect even higher yields this year.

“We are expecting a very good mango yield this year. Also, efforts are underway to ensure that farmers can export mangoes. Agricultural officers in every upazila are working to this end,” said Dr Azizur Rahman, additional director at DAE’s Rajshahi divisional office.