Farmers in Dhading Prepare to Clear Marigold Fields for New Crops

Dhading. Farmers in Dhunibeshi Municipality-2 of Dhading are currently preparing to clear the marigold flower fields planted in Magh and Chaitra. As the season for paddy and various vegetable cultivation is about to begin, they are preparing to conclude flower cultivation and plant new crops.

According to the farmers, although the demand and price for marigold flowers are high during the Dashain-Tihar season, the price has significantly decreased in the off-season. Farmers say they are forced to sell marigold flowers for Rs 50 per kilo, which used to sell for up to Rs 150 per kilo during festivals.

Local farmer Phoolmaya Tamang, who has been commercially cultivating flowers for two years, said that while traders used to come to the fields and buy flowers and offer good prices during the season, the situation is different now. According to her, flowers now have to be sent directly to Kalimati market in Kathmandu via vehicle.

"The price has also decreased, and now it is time to clear the fields as it is the last season for flower cultivation," she said. She informed that after clearing the flower fields, paddy and seasonal vegetable cultivation will begin.

Local farmer Suntali Tamang and her husband are also busy picking flowers at this time. According to them, although marigold flowers provide good income during the season, farmers become disappointed due to not getting a proper price in the off-season.

With the onset of the monsoon, flower cultivation faces further challenges. Farmers say that production is wasted due to increased problems of diseases and black spots on flowers during the rainy season.

Economic activities in this area have been increasing with the expansion of the road network from Sitapaila in Kathmandu to Dharke in Dhading. With easier road access, it has become easier for farmers to transport vegetables, fruits, and other agricultural produce to the market, which has further supported local agricultural businesses. Photo: Prakashchandra Timilsena/Nepal Photo Library