Patuakhali Correspondent:

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.