Hybrid sunflower cultivation gaining popularity

Hybrid sunflower cultivation is gaining increasing popularity in Mirzapurupazila of Tangail district as farmers are turning to the crop for its higher profitability and relatively low production cost.

According to the Upazila Agriculture Office, sunflower cultivation was rarely seen in the area a few years ago, with only a handful of farmers growing the crop using traditional methods. However, following initiatives taken by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Agricultural Extension, local farmers are now adopting modern hybrid sunflower varieties with technical support and training from agriculture officials.

Officials said farmers are being provided with training on improved cultivation methods, while seeds, fertilisers and pesticides are also being supplied to encourage production.

The Agriculture Department said sunflower has been cultivated on about 60 hectares of land in Mirzapurupazila this year. The crop has produced good yields in several areas, including Mirzapur municipality and the unions of Mohra, Jamurki, Fatehpur, Banail, Anaitara, Bhatgram, Warshi, Bhabra, Bahuria, Latifpur, Tarafpur, Ajgana and Banshtail.
Local farmers FazlulHaque, 55, and Masud, 45, said they have benefited from cultivating improved hybrid sunflower varieties following advice from agriculture officials.

Meanwhile, blooming sunflower fields with their bright yellow flowers have also attracted visitors from nearby areas, who come to enjoy the scenic beauty.

Upazila Agriculture Officer MahmudaKhanam said sunflower cultivation is becoming increasingly popular among farmers as it offers better returns with lower investment.

“About 60 hectares of land have been brought under sunflower cultivation in Mirzapur this year, and the Agriculture Department is providing farmers with seeds, fertilisers, pesticides and other necessary assistance,” she added.