Sachchida Nanda Dey, Ashashuni (Satkhira)

In various areas of Ashashuni, moringa trees are covered in white flowers. During a visit to several parts of Ashashuni Upazila, it was observed that the branches of moringa trees were filled with flowers from root to tip.

At this time, the leaves of the moringa trees have started to fall, leaving the branches bare and showcasing clusters of beautiful white flowers, which have captivated many.

According to the Upazila Agriculture Department, moringa trees are found in every nook and cranny of the 11 unions of the Upazila—on household yards, along roadsides, in abandoned fields, and around vacant land.

Almost every household has at least one or two moringa trees, which have grown well without much care. The trees are also yielding good crops. Moringa branches or cuttings are planted every year, though about 30% of the newly planted cuttings do not survive.There are two varieties of moringa in this Upazila: one is the "Halo Seasonal" moringa, and the other is the "Baromashi" (year-round) variety. The flowers of moringa begin to bloom from the end of January, and the year-round variety produces flowers several times throughout the year. However, not every flower bears fruit. A large tree can yield 400 to 500 fruits. In the country, moringa trees are usually planted by cutting branches and replanting them.

According to the Agriculture Office, moringa branches will be planted again after the season ends this year. Moringa cultivation is successful in all types of soil in this Upazila. Moringa is a highly nutritious and medicinal vegetable, often referred to as a superfood.

Besides, the leaves, the roots and bark of the moringa tree also have significant medicinal uses.Due to the high demand and price of moringa, farmers in the Upazila are now planting moringa trees on abandoned lands in a planned manner, thus benefiting economically. With the high prices, many are now interested in commercial moringa farming. An agriculture official from the Upazila mentioned that the moringa tree is resilient to cold, heat, and drought, and it can grow in any part of Bangladesh. This year, the moringa trees have blossomed extensively. The leaves, flowers, bark, and roots of the moringa tree are all beneficial for health.

The Agriculture Office is encouraging farmers to set up planned moringa fields. If there are no major natural disasters, this year's moringa harvest is expected to be a bumper one. Farmer Debbrato Basak stated that the tree is climate-resilient and can grow well even in dry and less fertile soil.The local and international markets demand moringa due to its nutritional value.

By cultivating moringa, farmers in Ashashuni can increase their income and contribute to the local economy. Additionally, with training and support from government and private sectors, moringa cultivation could expand further, providing even greater benefits to the farmers.