As the Bangla month of Falgun begins, litchi trees are blooming. However, growers in Ishwardi upazila, Pabna, report a decrease in bud formation, with more trees producing new leaves. This trend suggests a potential decline in litchi production.
Approximately 70-80% of litchi trees have generated new leaves rather than buds, a phenomenon not previously observed on this scale. Agriculture officials have not pinpointed the cause but speculate climate change may play a role.
In Pabna, litchi orchards span about 4,000 hectares, with Ishwardi upazila accounting for 3,100 hectares. Shajahan Ali Badsha, a prominent grower, noted that out of 600 trees, only 120-150 have budded, a stark contrast to past years where 50-60% bore fruit. He anticipates only 20-25% productivity this year. Historically, growers in Ishwardi have generated approximately $182 million from litchi sales each season, but this year's production shortfall could impact business.
Litchi traders express concern over the reduced bloom. Md Mirajul Islam, a trader, invested around $45,500 in 200 trees, a higher cost than in previous years, fearing substantial losses if production declines. Md Rakibul Islam, another farmer and trader, shares similar apprehensions.
Mita Sarkar, the upazila agriculture officer, stated, "We are not certain why so many trees are growing new leaves while few are budding this time. It could be due to the impact of climate change. We are monitoring the situation. We will calculate the trees with buds to project litchi production after the blooming time ends."
Source: The Daily Star