Maha sarakham: A young man from Maha Sarakham has left his city life in Bangkok to transform his 9-rai (approximately 3.6 acres) rice field into a thriving durian orchard.
According to Thai News Agency, Nuttapat Saennarong, a 45-year-old man, decided to abandon city life and convert his rice field into a business where all the durians are already reserved by customers. At Home Hug Garden in Khawa Subdistrict, Mueang Maha Sarakham District, what was once a rice paddy is now a mixed orchard cultivating various fruits, with Monthong durian being the main attraction. Despite having only nine fruit-bearing trees, the orchard has become a local sensation, quickly selling out due to high demand, allowing customers to pick durians fresh from the trees.
Nuttapat revealed that after working in Bangkok, he wanted to return to his hometown to live with his family. He began preparing the land and learning about durian cultivation independently, both online and by visiting successful orchards. Initially, he planted a few dozen trees, facing challenges as some died while others began producing fruit after about five years. He then decided to invest seriously, expanding the plantation to over 300 trees. This year, the orchard yielded a large harvest, with an overwhelmingly positive response from customers who have pre-ordered all the produce.
Nuttapat explained that growing durian is challenging, especially in Maha Sarakham's sandy soil. However, with proper soil preparation, irrigation systems, and consistent care in preventing diseases and pests, successful cultivation is possible. Home Hug Garden also offers free educational tours on durian cultivation and sells high-quality Mon Thong durian saplings in various sizes at reasonable prices.