Gene marker helps solve horn dilemma in Merino sheep
Australian research has shown the possibility of eliminating the horn gene in Merino sheep.
Pruning for maximum benefit in litchi trees
Research conducted by HortResearch SA’s Dr Steve Oosthuyse shows that timely pruning of litchi trees can produce a rich flush and yield a greater harvest.
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...
Coming soon: hot weather lettuce production
‘Switching off’ a gene that slows germination in high temperatures will allow farmers to grow lettuce all year round.
Making strides in Striga control
A novel approach to controlling a destructive root parasite has produced good results with sorghum in Ethiopia, according to Robyn Joubert.
Breakthrough with red blotch disease in grapes
Scientists have identified a virus found in US vineyards as the culprit, and are certain it will be found worldwide.
African leafy vegetables: easy and sustainable
‘African leafy vegetables’ is a term used to describe indigenous, indigenised and recently introduced plant species collected by African women as a source of food for their families for centuries.
Clean, green image of biofuels questioned
UK researchers find that crop fuels produce more pollution than the plants they replace.
Flaxseed-fed cows have healthier milk – study
Scientists have discovered that supplementing cattle feed with flaxseed results in less saturated fats.
Simple soil test promises to predict yields
An inexpensive new test may soon allow farmers to manage crops better and ascertain crop sizes accurately.
The tiny terror that’s a farmer’s best friend
Research has shown that spiders are the first predators to colonise newly planted lands. Best of all, they are pest control specialists, says Dr Ansie Dippenaar-Schoeman, specialist scientist at the...
‘Bug’ benefits weanling pigs
A bacterium provides energy to pigs during weaning which helps boost their immune systems and reduce infections.
New insecticides from sea anemone toxins?
The venom from Anthopleura may soon be used to develop environmentally friendly pest control and new medicines.
A fireproof house – made of straw
This unique design, using hay bales with fire-retardant cladding, can withstand the heat of the fiercest bushfire.
Fox vs jackal: always in balance
Cape fox and bat-eared fox numbers are strongly influenced by fluctuations in the population of black-backed jackal, according to research conducted near Kimberley by Dr Jan Kamler of Oxford University....
Breeding crop varieties to order
A conventional, non-GM breeding programme by the University of KwaZulu-Natal is developing high-yielding, virus-resistant crop varieties specifically for African small-scale farmers.
Weeding out the problem
Precision camera technology offers automated weed control – and an intelligent means to tell the good guys from the bad. Robyn Joubert reports.
Phytases: unlocking the benefits of phosphorus
Phosphorus is a vital nutrient in livestock production, but what is the best source? Multi-national animal nutrition company DSM provided answers at EuroTier 2012 in Hanover, Germany.
Electricity savings: the power is in your hands
Increasing energy costs have cut into many a farmer’s profitability. With more increases from Eskom on the cards, producers need an action plan to cut usage wherever possible. Koos Bouwer,...
Chemicals: the best weapon against slangbos
Prof Hennie Snyman warns that slangbos (also known as bankrupt bush, bankrotbos or vaalbos) is steadily eroding farm values. So the expense of chemical control is well worth it. Roelof...
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