Mango farmers in Chapainawabganj district are bracing for potential losses this season, with significantly fewer buds observed on trees, particularly on larger trees amid challenging weather conditions.
This year's reduced bud bloom could mark the season as a mango-off year, a phenomenon where production alternates annually between high and low yields due to natural growth cycles and external factors.
Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) sources indicate that cold weather is to blame for the decreased number of mango buds in the district. However, there is optimism that warmer temperatures could encourage more buds to bloom in the upcoming days.
The region, known for its extensive mango orchards spanning 37,604 hectares, produced 443,625 tonnes of mangoes last year. Mango bud formation typically occurs from early Magh to mid-Falgun, but this year's expected bloom has been hampered by the prevailing cold.
Mango farmer Abdur Rakib from Chapainawabganj municipality noted that diligent tree care can yield better bud production, even in an off year. Yet, the cost of cultivation might outweigh profits due to the reduced number of buds. Rakib also highlighted the risk of natural calamities, which could further impact growers already facing low bud counts.
Mohammad Alam and Babu, fellow mango farmers, echoed concerns over this year's sparse bud formation, attributing their dismay to unfavorable weather conditions. Despite substantial investments in mango plants, irrigation, fertilisers, and labour, growers face uncertainty in recouping their costs due to the lower bud yield.