Caxton Magazines
Persevering with biological pineapples
Making the transition from conventional farming to organic farming, and then to biological farming, hasn't been easy for this Hluhluwe pineapple farmer. But achieving a higher yield in extremely dry conditions has made it worth his while. Robyn Joubert investigates.
Who should get the credit?
The recent tendency among SOME senior market officials to create the impression that they are solely responsible for the successes of a market hasn't abated.
Cabbage basics: nitrogen & soil balance
Many VEGETABLE FARMERS ask what fertiliser to use when planting cabbages. The question assumes each crop has a specific requirement, regardless of what's already in the soil.
A farmer in need is a farmer indeed
After a number of dry years and with part of the region declared a drought disaster area in mid-2009, 2010 was always going to be tough for the members of the Upper Cathcart Farmers Association (UCFA) in the Eastern Cape. And as Mike Burgess discovered, farmers there have been reminded just how isolated they are from efficient state support in times of drought – and that it’s better to rely on the generosity of fellow farmers.
Good? Bad? Better? The truth about the McCosker Brew
Few people can claim to HAVE developed a recipe that's helped optimise rumen activity on low-protein, unpalatable, lignified sour veld. But Australia's Terry McCosker is one such person.
Do I need a loan?
Many new farmers lack the money to start up their business. But before applying for a loan, make sure it's really necessary, writes Susan Pletts.
Getting started with carrots
Here are some guidelines regarding plant population, fertilisers and climate to get you started on carrot production.
Tick-borne diseases in goats and sheep
These diseases are spread between animals by the bite of an infected tick - and animals must be treated quickly to prevent death.
Finding the perfect wing
The wings of racing pigeons are one of the most important physical attributes and breeding birds with the ideal 'wing design' takes time and experience. Thomas Smit shares a few tips with us.
Green trailer to reduce emissions
Transporting 1kg tomatoes in a 40t rig from ZZ2 in Polokwane to the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market probably has a smaller carbon footprint than a housewife driving in an SUV to buy the same from her local supermarket. New developments in Barloworld trailer designs will certainly widen the gap. Joe Spencer reports.
Glamorising low-cost housing
I recently received a call from a regular Farmer's Weekly reader and acquaintance who likes the way I improvise on cutting building costs.
Hot-az-el chicken chilli
There comes a time in a man’s life when the prospect of yet another meat-and-two-veg-dinner leaves him cold.
A good use of space
Hi Jonno,
I've decided to demolish the small cottage close to my house and rebuild one further down the property with a maximum size of 80m².
The modification bug bites
If a piece of equipment is to work better, you have to modify it. But once you start modifying, it's difficult to stop, writes Abré J Steyn.
New Bell Series III Tractors built tough for Africa
It may seem like Bell Equipment is going retro with its new Bell Series III Haulage Tractors, but the company is simply providing for the operating needs of their customers at the lowest cost per ton hauled, reports Joe Spencer.
Let’s hear it for Birdy!
Birdy is the best-performing racer in the 14-year history of the Sun City Million Dollar Pigeon Race. Thomas Smit looks at this remarkable bird and its offspring.
Tick-borne diseases in goats and sheep
Tick-borne diseases can cause major animal losses. This week we look at how to identify heartwater.
Growing groundnuts
Groundnuts is a drought-toleraGroundnuts are rich in protein and can be eaten raw, cooked or roasted. The upright types are mostly cultivated under drier conditions, while the runner kinds are often irrigated.
Overheads can make or break your business
Overhead costs are like a beard. They're always there, just as the hair you shave grows back. If you want your business to succeed, keep your overheads manageable, writes Susan Pletts.
Another top Santa Gertrudis
For Pip and Howard Hobson the success of a herd doesn't lie with the bull, but with the genetics of the cow. This point of view won them the Farmer's Weekly-ARC Best Elite Cow of the year award. Wayne Southwood spoke to them about their breeding tactics.
