Litchi trees across Dinajpur district, widely known as the ‘litchi state’, have started blossoming fully, with growers expecting a bumper production of the juicy fruit this year.
During a visit yesterday to orchards in several upazilas, including Sadar, litchi trees were seen blooming amid favorable weather conditions. Though excessive new leaves resulted in fewer buds last year, growers say, litchi trees are in full bloom with abundant budding this season.
Raihan Farid, an agronomist involved with research at the Dinajpur Horticulture Department, said that a bumper yield is expected this season. He said agricultural experts have been providing farmers with necessary guidance and supportive information in preparation for higher production.
“Almost all trees have started budding,” he said, adding that litchi trees typically begin budding from the first week of February. “We are full of hope for a good production this time.”
According to farmers in Dinajpur, juicy litchi varieties—popular Badana, Bombay, Madraji, China-3, Haria and Jackfruit litchi—are supplied to markets across the country. Among them, Bombay remains the most widely cultivated variety due to its high demand and profitability.
Data from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) showed that litchi was cultivated on 5,870 hectares of land in the district last year. Although this season’s cultivation target has not yet been finalized, officials said work is underway to fix the target.
Deputy Director (Crops) of DAE, agriculturist Mostafizur Rahman, said Dinajpur’s litchis are popular nationwide for their sweetness and flavor. “Weather conditions have been favorable this year. There has been no rainfall and the winter was mild to moderate, which does not negatively affect litchi buds,” he said.
Rakibul Hasan, a beekeeper and honey producer explained that excessive rainfall last year reduced carbon levels at the tips of branches, resulting in more vegetative growth and fewer buds. “This year, new leaf growth is minimal and buds have appeared at the right time. Production of Bombay, Jackfruit and Madraji varieties is likely to increase this year,” he said.
He added that buds are now visible in nearly all gardens and that most trees are expected to be fully budded within the next week.
Shafiqur Rahman, a litchi farmer from Banhara village under Birol upazila, said the buds look healthier than in previous years. “Agricultural officials are advising us regularly, which is helping ensure better care of the orchards,” he said.
Farmers said that the busiest period begins once flowering starts and continues until harvest, lasting three to four months. Irrigation is required 15 days before and after flowering, along with regular watering and fertilization to prevent bud drop. Garden owners have already begun irrigation in preparation.
Litchi cultivation is prominent in Sadar, Birol, Bochaganj, Kaharol, Chirirbandar, Birganj, Khansama and Ghoraghat upazilas of the district.
Deputy Director Krishibid Md Afzal Hossain said it is still too early to determine the exact production of litchi. “Buds have just started appearing. While we cannot yet estimate total output, the number of buds seen so far indicates the possibility of a good yield,” he added.
Officials from the Agriculture Department said they will continue providing overall support and technical advice to ensure farmers achieve the expected bumper litchi harvest this season.
