KAMALGANJ, MOULVIBAZAR, Mar 3: The air in Kamalganj Upazila of Moulvibazar is filled with the sweet fragrance of mango buds, signalling the arrival of spring and the upcoming mango season. Bees buzz around the blossoms while the call of the cuckoo adds to the atmosphere, as mango trees across villages sprout new buds.
In Kamalganj, Sreemangal, Kulaura, and Rajnagar upazilas, mango trees in homesteads, roadside areas, and near ponds are turning yellow with buds. Branches are gradually being covered, enhancing the beauty of the landscape. Locals say favourable weather has brought early budding this year. With the end of the month of Magh and the start of Falgun, trees are now in full bloom.
Although Moulvibazar does not have large-scale commercial mango cultivation, residents often plant saplings collected from local markets in their courtyards. Farmers note that fog is the biggest enemy of mango buds, often damaging them. However, this year's weather has been supportive, raising hopes of a good yield if proper care is taken.
Rajon Abedin of Baligaon Village in Kamalganj said buds began appearing in early Falgun. "This year the trees have more buds than usual. Rain has damaged some, but if natural disasters do not occur and the weather remains favourable, there is potential for a bumper harvest," he said.
Zayed Alam of Ashidron Union in Sreemangal added that budding came earlier than in previous years. "We have already started primary care of the trees. To protect buds from disease, we are spraying pesticides as advised by the agriculture department," he said.
Kamalganj Upazila Agriculture Officer Jayanta Kumar Roy said, "This year buds have appeared before the heat. Some trees are splitting at the top, while others are budding normally. Kamalganj has no designated mango orchards; whatever exists is private. If anyone wants to cultivate mango commercially, the agriculture office will provide guidance and support."
District Agriculture Extension Deputy Director Md Jalal Uddin said early budding has been observed this year. "If the weather remains favourable, the buds will not be damaged. Farmers are advised to spray pesticides such as emamectin and fungicides like mancozeb to protect the buds. The soil and climate of this district are highly suitable for mango cultivation, though commercial farming has not yet started here," he noted.
Residents say the fragrance of mango buds is enchanting, spreading across villages and captivating hearts. The aroma also heralds the arrival of 'Madhumas', the traditional mango season.
