Technology

Get the latest agricultural farming news on modern technology, smart farming tools, and innovations shaping the future of agriculture.

Bioagronomy 1-2-3

A step-by-step approach to soil preparation is key to ensuring the survival of beneficial micro-organisms and greater yields, writes Robyn Joubert.

Benefits of high-Brix farming

Brix testing quickly indicates to a farmer how a plant responds to management changes, and provides an accurate picture of a crop’s health and taste. Jeff Joubert explains the method...

This tractor has Seoul!

With 75kW tractors becoming more popular, local farmers need look no further than South Korea’s TYM range. Joe Spencer reports.

Winning the fight against fruit flies

The local deciduous fruit industry has developed a successful Mediterranean fruit fly control programme that uses environmentally friendly products, as well as the ‘sterile insect technique’. Denene Erasmus reports.

Beating the scourge of PRRS

A genetic marker shows a pig’s susceptibility to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome.

Keep your ewes longer

The reproductive performance of a sheep flock can be improved significantly if farmers retain their best ewes for an extra year or two.

Commercial potential for the humble cactus pear

Dr Maryna de Wit and her team at the University of the Free State are studying commercially viable uses for the cactus pear. The researchers argue that although South Africa...

Meet TONI

Getting the overall picture of the performance of various tractor and implement combinations is now easier, thanks to the Telematics on Implements system from Claas. Joe Spencer reports.

Genetics fit for the environment

Professor Frikkie Neser, of the University of the Free State’s department of animal, wildlife and grassland sciences, says that breeders should aim for livestock suited to particular production environments. Lloyd...

FMS shows off new tractors

Pietermaritzburg-based Massey Ferguson dealer, FMS, recently held a field demo at Cedara. Joe Spencer reports.

A closer look at a winner

The Case IH Quadtrac 600 recently picked up a 2012 AE50 Award. Joe Spencer reports.

A new way of controlling pom pom weed

This invasive alien plant is difficult to destroy, but trials at Nyoka Wildlife Conservation have shown good results, writes Dave Vanderspuy.

Satellites assist with water use

Scientists are going to space to help farmers monitor drought and irrigate their crops.

CLA supplementation for healthier pork

Research by two doctoral students the University of the Free State has shown that supplementing pig feed with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) could add considerable value to the pork industry....

The cutting edge

Falcon’s new Rotogang is now out and the word is, the company has got it right. Joe Spencer reports.

21st century predator control

Predation can cause huge stock losses, yet farmers are under pressure to avoid methods such as gin traps and poison. A Karoo farmer’s invention might satisfy both farmers and environmentalists.

New from New Holland

New Holland used the 31st LAMMA Show to launch its new T6 tractor range. Joe Spencer reports.

Using antibiotics wisely

Farmers must use antibiotics more prudently to prolong their efficacy. Dr Maryke Henton, an Idexx Laboratories specialist veterinarian and Global Antibiotic Resistance Partnership member, tells Robyn Joubert why.

Improved engines, better controls

Case IH showcased two new Axial-Flow combine series at Agritechnica. Major improvements include new, more efficient engines and better control of the grain tank augers. Joe Spencer reports.

Stocking rates and Karoo veld

Trials by Free State University’s Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences question the ecological sustainability of high stocking rates on Karoo veld. Roelof Bezuidenhout reports.
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