Breath of air in irrigation water restores soil and improves yields
Activated oxygen water treatment trials in North West have shown
positive results in wheat and maize yields. Annelie Coleman reports.
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Kruger National Park confirmed as haven for amphibians
A study by the Water Research Commission (WRC) has confirmed that South Africa’s Kruger National Park (KNP) is a biodiversity haven for the country’s most important amphibians.
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Planting in crop residue, the Argentinian way
Co-operation between South African and Argentinian agricultural organisations has led to a series of multi-year trials in selected South African localities to compare Argentinian direct planting technology and conventional systems with those used in South Africa. Pietman Botha reviews the first year of the trials, which were launched in 2011.
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Competition Commission takes Sasol on again
After previously being fined R250 million for anti-competitive practices in South Africa’s chemical fertiliser market, Sasol is now facing fresh charges of excessive pricing for its polymer products.
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How to grow green peppers
Green peppers like plenty of sunlight and moist, warm soil. If using seed, plant under a shelter about eight weeks before you anticipate the last frost in your area, then transplant.
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Get the rotation right, says leading rooibos producer
Willie Nel, recipient of Rooibos Limited’s Producer of the Year Award, says sustainable rooibos production depends on a rotation cycle that will ensure consistently good quality yields. Denene Erasmus reports.
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Protecting a carrot crop
Weeds have a negative impact on plant growth and reduce crop yields.
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From farm labourer to an awarding tomato producer
Starting as a farm labourer at the age of 10, with no formal education, Ntuseni Nesane became a leading black commercial farmer and an award-winning tomato producer. The University of Venda has recently awarded him an honorary doctorate in agriculture. Peter Mashala visited him on his farm.
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Reshape the future of agriculture now
Water, coal, gas and oil. The future of these finite resources holds the key to the future of agriculture. That’s why farmers should participate in legislative processes to ensure the implementation of long- term solutions today, says Prof Kobus van der Walt, environmental lecturer at North-West University.
Susan Botes reports.
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12 ways to protect the land
STEP 12: Co-operation and collaboration with others.
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