Litchi cultivation is expanding across Meherpur district as farmers respond to strong demand, favourable prices and supportive weather, raising expectations of a bumper harvest within weeks. The fruit, prized for its taste and market value, has increasingly become a profitable crop, with orchards across the district nearing the end of maintenance ahead of the early-season harvest.
The Department of Agricultural Extension said around 715 hectares were under litchi cultivation last year, producing about 6,110 metric tonnes worth more than Tk50 crore. This year, the cultivated area has risen to nearly 800 hectares. Officials said good weather has supported fruit development, increasing the likelihood of higher output and improved market returns if conditions remain stable.
Green clusters now hang thickly across orchards, where farmers are completing irrigation, weeding and pest control. Growers said the crop condition remains strong so far, although they remain cautious about potential weather shocks and price volatility that could affect earnings.
Several varieties are grown in the district, including China-3, Bedana, Bombay, Madrazi, Kathali and Aathi. Among them, China-3 and Bombay varieties command the highest demand due to their size, juiciness and flavour. Meherpur’s litchis are widely supplied to other districts, making the fruit a key contributor to the local economy.
Farmers said the crop has become an increasingly viable source of income. Sadar upazila orchard owner Saidur Rahman said, “Seeing the high profit potential, I have planted new saplings on one bigha of land this year. I am also taking regular care of my two bighas of existing orchards. If the weather remains favourable, I expect a bumper yield.”
Another orchard owner, Suman Hossain, said regular care is essential to maintaining quality. “We are ensuring regular maintenance to maintain quality and prevent pest attacks. Timely application of pesticides and proper management lead to better yields,” he said.
Farmer Abdul Quddus said he has cultivated litchi on two and a half bighas this season. “Last year, I sold the orchard to traders at the flowering stage. This year, I am taking extra care and hope to sell litchis worth several lakh taka,” he said.
Despite optimism, growers pointed to recurring challenges, particularly from bats and birds that damage fruit after it begins to mature. To limit risks, many farmers choose to sell orchards early through advance agreements.
Farmer Zahidul Islam said pest management is ongoing, but wildlife damage remains a concern. “We are regularly applying pesticides to control insects. But when the fruits grow bigger, attacks from bats and birds increase. That is why we sometimes sell the orchards early,” he said.
Traders have already begun securing supply through pre-season purchases. Local trader Babul Hossain said he had bought several orchards and plans to acquire more during the harvest period. “The orchards have produced good yields this year. I have already purchased several orchards. More will be bought throughout the season. Meherpur litchis always have high demand,” he said.
Buyers from outside the district have also arrived to secure early deals. Mokhlesur Rahman, a trader from Faridpur, said he came ahead of the season due to strong consumer preference for Meherpur litchis. “Meherpur litchis are highly sought after due to their sweetness and taste. That is why I came early to buy orchards. I hope for good business this year. If prices remain stable, both traders and farmers will benefit,” he said.
Agriculture officials expect both production and value to rise this season. Deputy Director Sanjib Mridha said, “Compared to last year, more fruits have developed on the trees. We expect litchis worth Tk50 to Tk55 crore to be sold this season. Farmers are being provided with regular advice and training to ensure quality production.”
He added that export opportunities could further improve returns. “If the Department of Agricultural Marketing can create export markets for litchis, farmers will benefit even more. Export opportunities would also have a positive impact on the national economy,” he said.
With expanded cultivation, steady demand and supportive weather, farmers and traders alike are looking towards a strong season in Meherpur’s litchi sector.
