Mulching method boosts tomato yields in Moulvibazar

Abdul Mannan, a progressive young farmer from Shukur Ullar village under Kamalganj upazila in Moulvibazar district, has become a symbol of agricultural innovation and success by cultivating early-season tomatoes using the mulching method, a modern farming technique that’s now gaining popularity across the region.

This year, Mannan planted tomatoes on 12.5 bighas of land, investing over Tk 13 lakh so far, with another 10–12 lakh expected by the end of the season. Thanks to strong yields and favorable market prices of 100–120 taka per kg, he anticipates selling his produce for Tk 50–60 lakh, expecting a profit of around Tk 30–35 lakh after covering all costs.

His achievement is not a one-time success. Last year, he cultivated tomatoes on 10 bighas, earning Tk 25–26 lakh in profit, and his consistent results have drawn attention far and wide. Inspired by his journey, 5–6 other farmers in the area have already started tomato cultivation on 30–35 bighas, also seeing promising outcomes.

The mulching method, which involves covering crop beds with special polythene sheets, offers several advantages: it suppresses weed growth, retains soil moisture, reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides, and protects the plants from waterlogging during irrigation. Most importantly, it leads to higher yields, healthier crops, and lower production costs.

“The cost has come down significantly, and at the same time, early-season cultivation allows for better market prices,” said Abdul Mannan. “There’s no weed growth, minimal use of fertilizer, and the land stays fertile. This method has changed the way we farm.”

Currently, Mannan employs 12–15 workers in his field, paying Tk 450 per day to men and Tk 300 to women, contributing to local employment as well.

Kamalganj Upazila Agriculture Officer Jayanta Kumar Roy confirmed that 60 hectares of land in the upazila are now under tomato cultivation using the mulching method.“The technique enhances disease resistance and keeps roots intact even in high humidity. This has made summer tomato cultivation more viable and profitable,” he said, adding that the Agriculture Department continues to provide technical support and guidance to farmers.

With Mannan’s success story spreading, more farmers from surrounding areas are visiting his farm to learn about the method — marking the beginning of a quiet agricultural transformation in Kamalganj.