Several varieties of malta, also known as sweet orange, are being cultivated commercially in different areas of Thakurgaon—the primary agricultural area of northern Bangladesh adjoining the Himalayas.
Although malta is known as a mountain fruit, it can also be grown on flatter land.
Confirming the matter to the Dhaka Tribune, one of Thakurgaon’s a successful malta farmers, Munsur Ali said: “A few years ago, I planted only one tree in my house’s courtyard.
“Once I saw I was getting a good yield, I started cultivating the Bari 1 variety of malta commercially on around 2 acres of land. At least 100-120 maltas were harvested from each tree.”
He said malta cultivation is profitable and cheaper than that of other fruits. The fruit can be harvested one to two years after seeds are planted. Additionally, it does not require of the use of pesticides or formalin.
Fruit trader of Bhulla area, Kajol, said the malta of this garden are juicier and sweeter than any imported malta. This brings in more profit because people prefer these malta.
Having tasted both varieties of malta, local consumers say locally-cultivated malta tastes sweeter than those imported, he added.
The cultivation of malta is becoming more popular among farmers of Haripur upazila, and Sadar upazila under the district.
Young people are also inspired to cultivate malta—having witnessed the success of Munsur Ali.
Two such youths, Shahed and his sister Shahana, said they have started growing malta on less than half an acre of land.
They dream of a profitable business. They said they were completely unfamiliar with this fruit before they saw Munsur cultivating it.
A fruit seller from Kalibari, Jahan Ali said: “Consumers are looking for the same malta that I sold from Munsur, however the supply of malta is not on par with demand.”
Thakurgaon Department of Agricultural Extension Deputy Director KM Maududul Islam said: “Malta cultivation is successful in this region because of geographical reasons. It is completely pesticide and formalin free. There is no risk, which is why the fruit so popular among the public.”
He said various plans, including to train and motivate the farmers, have been made to interest them in cultivating malta.
Prominent Environmental Chemistry Professor Abu Bakar Siddique said: “This border district of Bangladesh is adjoined to the Himalayas. There are many orange, malta, and tea gardens along the mountains—we were the ones lagging behind.”
He said the farmers have awoken from their stupor. They are now motivated to work hard for successful: malta, orange, lemon, and tea cultivation.