Rajshahi: Farmers in the Rajshahi region are experiencing a boost in profits by cultivating broccoli, a crop that is proving to be more lucrative than traditional winter vegetables, thanks to its rising consumer demand and nutritional benefits.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, broccoli not only enriches the variety in markets and diets but also enhances nutritional intake. The region’s extended cold weather and ideal soil conditions, particularly in the drought-prone Barind tract, make it a favorable area for broccoli cultivation. Over the past few years, more farmers have turned to broccoli cultivation due to its attractive market price and promising yields.
Sub-Assistant Agriculture Officer Atanu Sarker explained that the farming techniques for broccoli are similar to those used for cabbage and cauliflower. The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) are actively supporting the crop by providing modern cultivation technologies.
Broccoli, a non-traditional winter vegetable, is steadily gaining traction in Rajshahi for its commercial potential. It is frequently seen alongside traditional winter vegetables in both wholesale and retail markets, enhancing the local vegetable supply’s diversity. Atanu Sarker pointed out that farmers in areas such as Godagari are achieving success with broccoli, motivating them to expand cultivation. The crop also adds nutritional variety to local diets and holds strong commercial growth potential in the northwest region.
Aminul Islam, a farmer from Pirijpur village under Godagari upazila, mentioned that many farmers are now growing broccoli because it commands a higher market price compared to other vegetables. Hafizur Rahman, another farmer in Harinbiska, is harvesting broccoli from one bigha of land and reported satisfactory yields and market prices. Rahman stated that he has been selling broccoli at Taka 30 per piece since the start of the harvest, finding it more profitable than cauliflower and cabbage.
Elsewhere, Nabibar Rahman from Palpur village cultivates around 600 broccoli plants on one bigha this year and anticipates higher profits. Dr. Shakhawat Hossain, Principal Scientific Officer at BARI, emphasized broccoli’s richness in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, noting the region’s favorable soil and winter climate for its growth. He foresees a bright commercial future for broccoli in northwest Bangladesh, aided by the local cold weather in Rajshahi.
Broccoli’s green leaves, similar to cauliflower, are high in protein and vitamin C and can be consumed directly. Its market price currently surpasses that of cauliflower by three to four times. The vegetable is gaining popularity among urban consumers and is frequently used in Chinese restaurants and grand hotels for soups and other dishes.
Dr. Azizur Rahman, Additional Director of DAE, highlighted that the crop has seen a surge in popularity among both rural and urban farmers and consumers. Various agricultural extension and research organizations have launched initiatives to promote broccoli farming. Dr. Rahman noted that DAE has also cultivated the crop in demonstration plots to encourage farmers to increase production commercially. He remarked that broccoli is easier to grow than cauliflower and cabbage, more tolerant of higher temperatures, and boasts higher nutritional value than other winter vegetables.