Shahjahanpur in Bogura has gained nationwide recognition for producing high-quality vegetable seedlings, with more than 200 nurseries flourishing across five villages. These nurseries cultivate seedlings of cauliflower, cabbage, chili, tomato, and other winter vegetables, supplying nearly 40 districts across the country. Each season, seedling transactions in the area are valued at around Tk 150 million, and growers believe that with improved facilities the industry could expand further.
Villages such as Shahnagar, Baropathar, and Kamarpra have become known as “seedling villages.” Around 90 hectares of farmland in these areas are dedicated to nursery cultivation, producing millions of healthy seedlings in demand nationwide. One grower noted that the popularity of the seedlings stems from their affordability and high quality, adding that orders often come from nearly all 64 districts.
Although the seedling trading season begins in the Bangladeshi month of Asharh, heavy rainfall this year has slowed early sales. Nursery owners, however, remain hopeful that demand will rise once rainfall decreases. “This year we could not plant as early due to the rains. Sales are slow, but we expect it to recover once the weather improves,” said one nursery owner.
To maintain quality, nursery owners have formed associations that oversee seed testing and supply to ensure strong, disease-free seedlings. “Through our organization, we ensure that only the best seeds are distributed to nurseries. Our responsibility is to provide healthy, robust seedlings to farmers,” said Amzad Hossain, president of the Shahnanagar Vegetable Nursery Owners’ Association.
Local agricultural officials have confirmed regular monitoring of the nurseries, offering technical support, training, and advice on disease prevention and nutrition management. “We are actively monitoring these nurseries and providing technical assistance, including disease control and nutrition guidance,” said Shahjahanpur Upazila Agriculture Officer Amina Khatun.
The Department of Agriculture anticipates that nursery owners will earn between Tk 120 million and Tk 150 million from seedling sales this season.
