Photo : BSS

DINAJPUR, Feb 23, 2026 (BSS) - Litchi orchards across Dinajpur, widely known 
as the 'Litchi State', have begun budding, raising hopes for a bumper 
production this season.

During a visit on Monday to orchards in several upazilas, including Sadar, 
trees were seen blooming in a pleasant environment. Unlike last year, when 
excessive new leaf growth resulted in fewer buds, growers say this season is 
showing a healthier balance with abundant budding.

Raihan Farid, an agronomist involved in litchi research at the Dinajpur 
Horticulture Department, told BSS 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. "There is little 
doubt about good production this time."

According to farmers, Dinajpur's juicy varieties-- the 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 determine the figure.

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," 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 scale of production. "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.