The Krone Premos 5000: like no other

The first public demonstration of the revolutionary mobile pelleter was held recently at a field day in Hungary. The machine eliminates the entire baling process.

Managing weather risk

Insuring against weather volatility is the norm in countries such as the US, but is not common practice in South Africa. Hans Smit of BVG, a risk management company, says...

Ferguson TE20 turns 70

The TE20 gave the world the Ferguson System, a major advance in production efficiency. Joe Spencer recalls the history of this legendary tractor.

Microbial-enhanced cotton seeds can increase profitability

A US company, Indigo Agriculture, has developed microbial-enhanced cotton seed that can thrive in hot conditions and boost production without genetic modification. Koot Louw, secretary of Cotton SA, tells Wilma...

Equipment makes composting easier

Locally manufactured and imported equipment is improving the ease of operation, efficiency and profitability of composting enterprises.

The MF WR9800 series Windrower

The 100 000th Massey Ferguson windrower rolled off the production line in Hesston, Kansas, earlier this year, marking another milestone in the history of a unit known for efficiency and productivity.

Investigating the water-use characteristics of biofuel crops

Biofuels are an important sustainable alternative to fossil-based fuels. However, caution is needed to ensure that water-efficient feedstocks are selected in water-scarce South Africa, says hydrologist Richard Kunz of the...

Dezzi equipment made in SA, for Africa

Desmond Equipment designs and manufactures a wide variety of machinery and equipment specifically for the African market. Products include timber trucks, haulers and trailers. Joe Spencer reports.

Low-tech solution for predation

The Botswana Predator Conservation Trust is working with researchers to determine whether livestock predation can be prevented simply by painting ‘eyes’ on cattle’s rumps.

Polaris Ranger power!

Deelkraal Wildlife Reserve has chosen Polaris Ranger utility vehicles for various operations. They certainly meet the challenge, says Joe Spencer.

Harnessing the power of innovation

Through its ‘Enough’ movement, Elanco Animal Health aims to prove how innovation can help farmers produce more food without using more resources.

Jupidex & Mascor at the Royal Show

These companies, which are part of the Plennegy Group, had impressive stands at this year’s Pietermaritzburg Royal Show. Joe Spencer reports.

Using smart technology to improve animal profitability

The University of the Free State’s meat traceability platform will enable farmers to track the growth and measurements of their animals from birth to slaughter. Glenneis Kriel reports.

Assisted reproduction techniques for ostriches

The long-term objective of breeding ostriches according to scientific principles has been given a boost, thanks to research by Dr Marna Smith.

As always, a right Royal display!

For many decades, the Royal Show has provided a comprehensive display of agricultural machinery and implements. This year was no different, and included amongst the exhibits were several locally manufactured...

Using nuclear irradiation to kill two bugs with one zap

Nuclear energy has many beneficial applications. One is the potential, through the sterile insect technique, to suppress Eldana, a pest that causes significant economic losses to sugarcane farmers, as well...