Caxton Magazines
Regulate nitrogen on beans with great care
There is very little room for error when applying nitrogen to beans. Too much or too little will reduce yields.
The millions of the Sun City Million-dollar pigeon race
The twelfth Sun City Million-dollar Pigeon Race will take place on 2 February 2008.
Purchase is the new CEO of ABC
Markets are business, and globalisation is opening up markets to agribusiness. This is one of many reasons why Dr John Purchase is excited to be the new CEO of the Agricultural Business Chamber (ABC). As former CEO of Grain SA, he also understands the synergistic relationship of farmers and agribusinesses. Susan Botes found out more about his vision for ABC.
Caution! GMO ahead
Director Leslie Liddel of Biowatch SA, a non-profit civil organisation, presents its case for the stricter regulation of GM crops and the labelling and separation of these from other products.
Irrigation Focus-Pumps
Pumps: expert advice on solving problems before they start. Good selection, good maintenance and proper installation are all equally important to pump life, says Bob Mackie of APE pumps and executive committee member of the SA Pump Manufacturer’s Association.
Broilers transform Keiskammahoek
Despite its pastoral traditions of extensive cattle farming, profitable agriculture in the former homelands is today often the result of intensification. In the Keiskamma area of the former Ciskei for instance, small-scale broiler farmers simply can't supply demand, resulting in some truly profitable businesses and ambitious expansions.
Broiler eggs -mega hatchability
As many as 14 000 birds in one laying house, with one operator handling the eggs? Precisely measured amounts of feed, water and vaccine delivered automatically? Electronically controlled ventilation? Lloyd Phillips reports how this five-star treatment uses economies of scale to achieve greater hatchability in broiler hens.
Meat inspections: waiting on government
The Meat Safety Act was passed seven years ago but the local industry is still waiting for it to be fully enforced. While it waits for the agriculture department to appoint authorised inspectors to conduct meat inspections, the industry is concerned how the delays will affect its reputation. Wilma den Hartigh reports.
200km, three days
The largest endurance ride in the world is held each year in the small Free State town of Fauresmith. The 34th championship in July drew a record entry of 376 riders. As Greg Miles reports, the race demands much of both horse and rider.
Saving farmers’ little helpers
Dung beetles can restore the health of farming ecosystems, reports Cornelia du Plooy. But their survival is threatened by toxic anti-parasitics. A toxicity rating system for animal health products now gives farmers an indication of how to use these products safely.
The sad demise of our ‘flat dogs’
Like claws, my fingers groped in vain to catch something to hang onto. Having lost my balance, I was falling backwards overboard in 10m-deep croc-infested water. I plunged head-first into another world.
Health and happiness at the same time
Make a peaceful, healthy, fine-tasting Middle Eastern chickpea salad.
Issue Date: 3 August 2007
Issue Date: 3 August 2007
Danger signs that need expert attention
Even though many South Africans live in remote areas and it is difficult to get a vet, in some situations there is no alternative.
Eliminate risks and ensure a uniform stand
Much attention should be given to planting bean seed as carelessness at this stage can be very costly.
Pigeon racing back in the day
When I first took an interest in pigeon racing in 1968, the number of wealthy pigeon fanciers on South African soil could be counted on the fingers of one hand.
BEE: the do’s, the don’ts and the maybe’s
The five-year process of drafting the AgriBEE Charter is nearing completion and it could be finalised and gazetted in the next three months. Wilma den Hartigh asked Tobias Doyer, CEO of the Agricultural Business Chamber, to clarify a few uncertainties about BEE in agriculture and explain how farmers can make it work for them.
SA economy remains resilient
'While prospects have greatly improved, farmers must take the advice of the liquor adverts and “enjoy the better times responsibly”.'
Looking into sugar’s future
The Agricultural Marketing Ministerial Review Committee's review of regulation in the sugar industry is in the final stages of completion. Rodger Stewart, chairperson of the SA Sugar Association, gives his views on what a transformed industry can expect.
Ultimate green all-terrain vehicle
Bruce McLeod first saw the Ecorider when a friend ordered one over the internet from the manufacturers in Nairn, Scotland. “It was love at first sight,” says Bruce. “After putting the bike through its paces on our farm in Cederberg, and being well-versed in off-road driving, I had no doubt whatsoever this machine is unique, a very different animal to the conventional quad bike.
Soil Health – Upgrading root systems
One of the many critical functions of mycorrhizal fungi is an increase in a plant's area of nutrient uptake by literally extending roots, says Dr Joanna Dames, head of Microbiology at Rhodes University. Among other farming benefits, they also aid soil aeration and moisture penetration, with a new product now optimising these benefits.
