AMTALI, BARGUNA, Mar 13: Amtali Upazila in Barguna District is now filled with the sweet scent of mango blossoms, raising hopes of a good harvest among growers. A visit to villages across the upazila shows mango trees in homesteads, orchards, and along pond banks covered in fresh clusters of blossoms.
Both indigenous and improved mango varieties-including Himsagar, Fazli, Langra, Amrapali, and Gobindobhog-have flowered abundantly this season. The pale yellow blossoms and their distinctive fragrance have transformed the rural landscape, creating optimism among farmers who depend on mango cultivation for seasonal income.
Local growers said excessive fog during the flowering stage often causes blossoms to drop prematurely, reducing fruit formation. After fruit setting, insect infestations-especially ants-can damage young mangoes. However, farmers noted that fog has been relatively mild this year compared to previous seasons, improving the chances of higher fruit retention and better yields.
According to Md. Russell, Agriculture Officer of Amtali Upazila, mangoes are cultivated on about 100 hectares of land in the area. He said most trees have already entered the flowering stage earlier than usual due to favourable weather conditions.
Officials from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) are providing guidance to farmers to protect blossoms and young fruits from pests and fungal diseases. They have advised orchard owners to use appropriate fungicides and maintain proper care to ensure healthy fruit development.
Agricultural experts say coastal regions like Amtali benefit from warm temperatures and moderate humidity during the flowering period, which supports good pollination and fruit formation. If favourable weather continues in the coming weeks, farmers expect a strong mango harvest this year, offering both economic benefits and seasonal abundance to the region.
