Tanor (Rajshahi) Correspondent:

Golden buds are now appearing on the branches of mango trees across Tanor Upazila. Buds have also started appearing on litchi trees. Mango orchards in different areas of the upazila have been seen on site, with trees adorned with a golden hue in the orchards. The fragrant aroma of buds has spread throughout the villages and neighborhoods.

It has been learned from talking to farmers that, compared to last year, almost every mango tree has budded well due to the favorable weather conditions. Buds are appearing on many trees at the same time in many orchards, which is making mango farmers dream of new things. Local farmers said that although many trees had buds last year, it was not possible to retain them. Buds fall off or burn early due to the adverse effects of wind and weather.

As a result, they did not get the expected yield. However, this time, they are giving extra importance to tree care from the beginning. Mango farmers from several villages in the Tanor municipal area said that the trees are being sprayed with vitamins and nutrients regularly, necessary fertilizers are being given to the base of the trees, and additional care is being taken, including tying ribbons to keep the bud base strong and irrigating it with water.

According to the farmers, if the bud base is not strong, there is a risk of the fruit falling later. Therefore, all kinds of preventive measures have been taken in advance this time. They hope that the mango production will increase significantly this season if the weather is favorable.

In this regard, Tanor Upazila Agriculture Officer Saifullah Ahmed said, “So far, the weather has been quite favorable for mango and litchi cultivation. Golden buds are visible on almost all the trees. The amount of buds is also relatively high this year.”

He also said, “There is a slight possibility of the buds burning early. However, there is no major risk at present. There is no need for additional irrigation or rain at the moment. If there is light rain in the middle of the month of Falgun, it will be quite positive for the yield.” The agriculture officer said that currently, mango farmers have become much more aware than before. They take care of the trees using fertilizers, irrigation and nutrients throughout the year. As a result, the health of the trees is good and the risk of buds and fruits falling is reduced.

It has been seen in gardens in different areas of the upazila that buds have appeared simultaneously in many old and new gardens. Buds are also appearing in some places on litchi trees. This is expected to improve not only the mango but also the litchi yield in the upcoming season.

According to the farmers, the biggest fear now is sudden gusty winds or excessive temperatures. However, if the weather is favorable and the buds can be maintained properly, the mango farmers of Tanore will be quite profitable financially in the current season, they are expecting.

All in all, the gardens of Tanore, filled with golden buds, are already indicating that the upcoming mango season could be rich and promising.