A farmer taking care of his malta orchard in Sherpur upazila of Bogura district on Monday — FE Photo BOGURA, Feb 18: Low production cost and handsome return have delighted the malta growers in the district this season.
According to the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) office sources, BARI-1 malta, developed by Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), is a popular variety in the area.
Grassroots growers cultivate the juicy citrus fruit on the vast tract of land across the district and make a good profit every season.
DAE official sources said malta cultivation is gaining popularity among famers in the district as it yields good profit.
Sub-assistant agriculture officer of DAE Faridur Rahman said, "We provide all necessary support so that the malta growers can produce the vitamin-C enriched fruit without any hassle."
Some growers said if proper steps can be followed malta farmers can harvest their fruits within two to three years after sowing the plant.
During a recent visit in different kitchen markets in Sherpur upazila this correspondent found the fruit is selling at Tk 130 to Tk 150 per kg in the retail market and Tk 100 to Tk 110 in the wholesale market.
"I have a malta orchard on 30 decimals of land. Malta cultivation requires less irrigation," said farmer Shahidul Islam of Magurartair village under Sherpur upazila.
DAE officials said the district posses a positive impact on malta cultivation. "We encourage the grassroots farmers to bring more cropland under Malta production", he added.
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