The government has taken the initiative to cultivate summer onions to reduce import dependence. Farmers of Kumarkhali upazila of Kushtia district have achieved success in the early stages of starting onion cultivation in the summer. Agriculture officials are hoping for a bumper yield of summer onions distributed among 1,100 small and marginal farmers of this upazila under the agricultural incentive program. There is a possibility of getting good yields by cultivating summer onions in Bangladesh. Nasik N53 was distributed among farmers under the agricultural incentive program this year and is helpful in meeting the country’s onion demand and creating opportunities for export abroad. Selecting the right variety, fertile and well-drained soil and cultivating in the right way can ensure a bumper yield. Kumarkhali upazila of Kushtia district is famous for onion production. Farmers of this upazila cultivate winter onions.
However, with the help of the Agriculture Department, several onion farmers in the upazila have taken steps to cultivate summer onions.
Last week, during a visit to several exhibition grounds in Kumarkhali Upazila, Upazila Agriculture Officer Md. Raisul Islam talked to farmers about summer onion cultivation. At that time, he expressed satisfaction after seeing the seedbeds. He said that there is great potential for summer onion cultivation in Kumarkhali.
He also said that we want it to spread widely among farmers. Onion is profitable than other crops and its production cost is also much lower. If we can produce summer and winter onions equally.
Then we will not have to import anymore. Upazila Agriculture Officer Md. Raisul Islam also said – The reasons for the yield potential are new varieties, farmers’ interest. Many farmers are getting good yields by cultivating these new varieties, which is also increasing interest among others. Assistance to farmers: The Department of Agricultural Extension is encouraging farmers to cultivate summer onions by providing incentives and proper advice.
It is important to keep the soil fertile, well-drained and retain soil moisture. Seed quality: For good yield, good quality and summer-appropriate varieties of seeds should be used.
Proper cultivation method: Prepare seed beds and make seedlings or sow seeds directly in the field in an appropriate manner.
Fertilizer and care: Soil fertility should be increased by mixing sufficient organic matter in the soil. In addition, regular care and pest control measures should be taken. Despite the adverse weather conditions this year, the seed beds for summer onions are in good condition. Talking to farmers in Kumarkhali Upazila, it was learned that summer onion production was like a dream. Then there are risks. Last year, Kumarkhali had a good yield. The Kumarkhali Agricultural Office has provided incentives. It provides assistance and advice in onion cultivation. That is why onion has a good yield.
There is a possibility of getting up to 25 metric tons of yield per hectare of land during a life of 100 to 110 days. Farmers said that onions from the land can be sold in the market from September to October.