Rajshahi: Nursery business is gaining momentum in Rajshahi, fueled by a rising interest among locals in planting saplings of various tree species. This burgeoning interest is particularly evident among farmers, who are keen on acquiring saplings of fruit, timber, and medicinal trees to enhance their financial prospects.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, as part of a nationwide campaign, both urban and rural residents are emphasizing tree plantation efforts to contribute to a more livable planet. In urban areas, the trend of rooftop gardening is expanding, not only promoting a healthier environment but also offering financial benefits.
Nursery owners and workers are currently experiencing a busy period, as the rainy season provides an ideal window for tree planting. This time is crucial for the nursery business, with heightened demand for seasonal vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Many micro-entrepreneurs have set up makeshift shops at strategic locations, displaying seedlings and plants to attract buyers.
Hassan Al Sadi, 35, has developed a commercial garden over eight bighas of land in Polashbari, Paba upazila, drawing flower enthusiasts daily. Inspired by a tulip garden in Gazipur, a Chapainawabganj resident established his ‘dreamers garden’ in 2020, utilizing mango orchard spaces for flower production via intercropping.
Zafar Iqbal, from Proshadpara village, exemplifies successful flower farming in the region, having transformed his life by cultivating flowers on ten katha of land three years ago. Nursery owners are combating excessive rain by using polythene covers and raising platforms to protect seedbeds.
The Rajshahi region, known for its surplus vegetable production, has seen individuals like Belly Begum achieve economic stability through homestead vegetable farming. Begum, from Dighipara village, is capitalizing on the growing demand for vegetables such as red amaranth, spinach, and bottle gourd.
Rafiqul Islam, a worker at Bangla Nursery, highlights the ongoing preparation of early winter vegetable saplings, noting the threat of root rot from heavy rain. The use of polythene is a preventive measure. Umme Salma, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), advises farmers to apply anti-fungal treatments to protect seedlings.
Tazrul Islam, owner of Liza Nursery, reports that small flower seedlings are priced between Taka 8-10, with larger ones selling for Taka 25-35. His nursery employs 7-8 daily laborers, with peak activity in winter.
The region is witnessing a surge of entrepreneurial spirit among young people and grassroots communities, with over 1,500 volunteers promoting water-efficient crop cultivation in drought-affected areas of Rajshahi, Naogaon, and Chapainawabganj.
Dr. Azizur Rahman, Additional Director of DAE, emphasizes the project’s role in ensuring food security by cultivating previously unused lands. A total of 35 demonstration gardens have been established across the unions, fostering the cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and spices.