Photo : BSS

PATUAKHALI, Feb 18, 2026 (BSS) - The sweet scent of mango buds is drifting 
across the southern coastal district of Patuakhali as spring arrives, raising 
hopes of a bumper harvest this season. 

Agriculture officials are optimistic that mango production will surpass the 
official target, thanks to favorable weather and improved farming practices.

Mango orchards in different upazilas-- including Sadar, Baufal, Dashmina, 
Galachipa, Kalapara, Dumki and Mirzaganj-- are now laden with buds. The light 
morning mist combined with the fragrance of blossoms has created a renewed 
sense of optimism among growers across the district.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), last year 
mangoes were cultivated on 680 hectares of land in the district, producing 
17,000 metric tons with an average yield of 25 metric tons per hectare. 

This year, cultivation has expanded to 705 hectares, with a production target 
set at 17,625 metric tons. However, officials believe output could exceed 
expectations if favorable conditions continue.

Agriculture officials attribute the promising outlook to a milder winter and 
relatively stable weather, which supported healthy budding. Farmers have also 
followed DAE guidance on balanced fertilizer application, regular orchard 
care, and effective pest and disease control measures, which are expected to 
improve yields further.

Abdul Karim, a farmer from Madanpura union in Baufal upazila, said mango 
cultivation has been profitable for him in recent years. "This year, there 
are more buds on the trees than before. If the weather remains good, I expect 
higher production," he said.

Nurul Islam, another farmer from Kanakdia union in the same upazila, said 
that he once cultivated only paddy but has diversified into mango farming due 
to better returns. "With regular advice from the agriculture office, the 
trees are doing very well," he added.

Various mango varieties are being cultivated in the district this year, 
including Amrapali, Himsagar, Langra and Gopalbhog. Among them, Amrapali is 
gaining popularity among farmers due to its higher yield and strong market 
demand.

Experts say the coastal soil and climate of the region are increasingly 
providing suitable for mango cultivation. Encouraged by favorable market 
prices, farmers are expanding mango farming alongside traditional crops such 
as paddy.

The DAE has undertaken several initiatives to boost production, including 
distributing improved seedlings, strengthening disease management, and 
promoting modern agricultural technologies. Regular training and technical 
support are also being provided to farmers to encourage orchard expansion and 
enhance productivity.

Local residents say the expansion of mango cultivation is not only increasing 
farmers' incomes but also generating employment opportunities in orchard 
maintenance, harvesting and marketing.

Najma Ahsan, head teacher of Dakshin Bilbilas Government Primary School in 
Bauphal, said the abundance of mango buds around the school reflects the 
promising season ahead. "Every tree is full of buds this year. The sweet 
fragrance in the morning brings joy and hope for a good harvest and better 
income for farmers," she added.

Dr. Mohammad Amanul Islam, Deputy Director of the Patuakhali Agricultural 
Extension Department, expressed confidence in exceeding the production 
target. "Last year, 17,000 metric tons of mangoes were produced on 680 
hectares of land. 

This year, cultivation has increased to 705 hectares with an estimated 
production of 17,625 metric tons. Given the favorable weather, we expect to 
surpass the target," he added.

He further said that ongoing training and technical assistance are motivating 
farmers to establish new orchards while improving yields in existing ones.

With mango buds blanketing rural landscapes, Patuakhali is poised for a 
record harvest this season if weather conditions remain supportive.