DERAI, SUNAMGANJ, Mar 14: Despite prolonged dry weather earlier this year, the mango trees in Derai Upazila of Sunamganj District are already heavy with flower buds, signalling the start of the mango season. Nearly 90 per cent of the mango trees across the upazila are bending under the weight of the buds.
On approximately 53 hectares of privately owned land, mango trees-planted in courtyards, home gardens, and along roads-bear fruit each season, and this year the early blooms have captured the attention of locals and farmers alike.
The Upazila Agriculture Office has confirmed that although rainfall has been minimal, the weather conditions this season are favourable for mango production. Field visits to villages such as Sakitpur, Chandipur, Sujanagar, Uttar Chandpur, Chandpur, and the Derai municipality reveal a consistent pattern of heavy flowering across the region.
The sweet fragrance of mango blossoms fills the air, captivating the senses and heralding the arrival of the honey month. Bees can be seen buzzing around the flowers, adding a soft hum to the atmosphere. With winter's lethargy fading, the onset of spring, the king of seasons, brings the promise of blossoming fruit. Mango trees, both young and mature, are now covered with fresh buds, transforming the landscape into a canvas of yellowish-green. Across Derai, the sight of the flowers covering entire branches is enhancing the beauty of the countryside.
Locals report that the mango trees grow naturally without any significant care, yet produce highly valued local varieties of mangoes. Even without pesticides or chemical treatments, these trees yield fruit with a perfect mix of sweet and sour flavours. While some may be attacked by pests, the taste remains unaffected. According to the Agriculture Office, proper care could ensure an abundant harvest from these trees, though there are no precise statistics on total mango production in the upazila.
Farmers and locals note that favourable weather conditions this year have accelerated flowering, with buds appearing before the official onset of spring. By the end of Magh and the start of Falgun, nearly every tree is covered in buds. Although commercial mango farming is limited in Derai, households collect saplings from local markets and plant them in their courtyards, contributing to the widespread bloom.
Mango buds face a key threat from fog, which can damage the flowers if persistent. Fortunately, the current weather remains favourable, allowing the trees to blossom early. With proper care, locals hope for a bountiful harvest.
Derai Upazila Agriculture Officer Manoranjan Adhikari noted that naturally, about 45 percent of the buds fall off. In case of higher drop rates, a protective spray called 'Mirakulan' may be needed. He added that Derai's soil is ideal for mango cultivation. The upazila has around 53 hectares of family-owned mango gardens, including two hectares planted with high-yield varieties such as Arapali and BARI Mango-4. Currently, Derai is home to an estimated 84,500 mango trees, according to the Upazila Agriculture Office.
The sight of mango trees bending under the weight of buds is not only a visual spectacle but also a reminder of the season ahead and the potential for a rich harvest. Locals are hopeful that continued favourable weather and proper care will ensure a successful mango season this year.
