Photo: Supplied
The Vondeling Group, based in the picturesque Paarl district in the Western Cape, is one such investor.
In 2020, the owners of Vondeling Wines started their almond endeavor. Four years later, the almond trees at Vrymansfontein farm stand tall, ready for their first harvest.
Almonds for export
Vondeling Wines primarily grows wine grapes, but the new almond venture covers 200ha, mostly at Vrymansfontein. Unit manager Magnus Joubert explains: “This year we will harvest our first crop, which will be sold mainly to international markets.”
Joubert sees the export market as the right fit due to the premium nature of Vrymansfontein’s product. While almond farming has expanded in South Africa in recent years, large-scale commercial production is still relatively new. The local market, being price-sensitive, makes exporting the best option for the Vondeling Group.
“I’m excited to see so many young, passionate farmers entering the industry, bringing fresh knowledge and energy to drive growth,” he adds.
Perfect growing conditions
Almonds thrive in dry summers, making the Paarl area ideal, as rainfall is minimal and the soil is well suited to almond trees. However, almonds are water-sensitive, so irrigation must be carefully managed. The trees need about 10 000m2 of water per hectare per season, which is supplemented by rainwater, mountain water, and the Suid-Agter Paarl irrigation.
Joubert believes almond irrigation is more intensive than that used for vineyards, so the farm’s management worked with Agrico’s team to design the right system.
“We’ve worked with Agrico for years, and their local expertise has been invaluable in setting up the system,” he says. “We have heavy clay soil here, so we use double-line drippers with 600mm spacing, which deliver 1,6ℓ per hour.”
Efficient water use through sustainable irrigation
Water efficiency is crucial at Vrymansfontein, given the limited water supply. Their drip irrigation system, designed by Agrico to make the most out of every drop of water, allows for precise water placement, ensuring minimal waste.
Joubert notes: “We use 9 000m2 to 11 000m2 of water per hectare to optimise almond production. The system also delivers nutrients directly to the tree roots, where they’re needed most.”
Joubert explains that the farm uses the Irrigator program for automated, scheduled irrigation, alongside Phytech, which monitors soil moisture and tree water needs through a weather station. This helps the team make informed decisions about water application.
During peak season, the trees are watered twice a day. The first irrigation session, at 10am, meets most of the day’s water needs, with the rest provided in the afternoon.
Partnering with Agrico: experts in irrigation
Joubert values working with Agrico’s team of experts. “The system was new to us, and we had a lot to learn. Agrico’s advice helped us set up the right systems, and their presence on-site during installation gave us confidence,” he says.
“Working with Agrico ensures we get the best products at competitive prices. Their systems are at the forefront of technology, and we have a strong partnership. We’re excited about what the future holds.”
Phone Agrico on 021 950 4111, or visit agrico.co.za.
