Bapatla farmers’ hard work spreads fragrance across state

However, some people think from where these flowers come in a bulk every day. Andhra Pradesh’d Bapatla district is known for bumper production of jasmine and kanakambaram, their cultivation take plae on hundreds of acres land in areas like Bapatla and Chirala mandals. The climate and soil both are perfect for the farming of these flowers. After the plantation, these plants yield flower for around a decade.

Prices remain moderate during summer due to high production—around Rs 40,000 per quintal. But prices accelerate during the monsoon and Sravana month, touch up to Rs 75,000 per quintal.

Venkatalakshmi, a farmers says that flower farming faces several challenges, heavy rains can delay harvesting. Demand remains high during festivals, which often falls when flower supply becomes low, effecting farmers’ profits.

Flower picking work is being done mostly by women- the work look easy but needs several hours of bending and careful work. Another farmer Chandana says that government’s special scheme is expected to expand flower farming which will give an opportunity to exports to other states.