Staff Reporter
Farmer's Weekly's Staff Reporter team provides accurate, timely, and trusted coverage of South African agriculture, delivering expert-backed reporting on farming, livestock, crops, agribusiness, technology, policy, and industry developments.
The Grand Hotel at GrandWest: a masterclass in perfect accommodation
When seeking the ultimate in hotel room design, look no further than the newly refurbished rooms at the GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World’s Grand Hotel in Cape Town.
Understanding the F94L gene in Limousin cattle
Limousin breeder Manjo Stiglingh and biomedical scientist Ilinde du Plessis explain the role of the F94L variant of the myostatin protein when crossbreeding with Limousin bulls, as well as the advantages it holds.
Production principles for hatchery success
The hatchery is the foundation of a fish farm. Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions, says that by following his six hatchery principles, farmers can set a trajectory for success in the grow-out phase.
How to consistently breed the best cattle
John and Tracey Devonport, owners of the Devlan Limousin stud, offer some important information for farmers hoping to embark on a journey of stud breeding.
Pet-friendly farm stay in Magaliesberg
Guest-farm owners and animal lovers Annatjie and Chris Geldenhuys treat pets as family, welcoming dogs of all shapes and sizes. They even roll out the welcome mat for cats and birds.
Celebrating 50 years of breeders producing exceptional cattle
Despite numerous challenges, the Limousin Breeders’ Society of Southern Africa is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, an accolade that proves the value of the golden breed.
Bunny ear cookies are easy to bake and perfect for Easter
These vanilla cookies with cream cheese icing and marshmallow ears make fun, festive Easter treats that are simple enough to bake at home.
Phalaenopsis orchids: tips to help them survive and thrive
Orchid expert Jacques Botha spoke to Linda Piegl about how to nurture the Phalaenopsis orchid, which requires precise watering and needs to be kept in a temperature-controlled environment.
Joburg Market hosts World Union of Wholesale Markets Conference
The City of Johannesburg and the Joburg Market are ready to host a major conference of market role players to underline the city’s key position in ensuring that intra-African food trade flows efficiently.
A farmer’s experience with bush encroachment
Farmer David Addenbrooke has worked in the Zimbabwean beef industry for around four decades. Here, he relates his experience with bush encroachment and offers farmers some advice on battling this scourge.
Cape Town on a budget: a smart stay at the Holiday Inn Express
What’s the best way to enjoy Cape Town’s top food and nightlife without having to splurge on a five-star hotel? Brian Berkman has some good suggestions.
Does the classification system help consumers buy the tastiest meat?
The current carcass classification system used in South Africa does not determine the quality of an animal’s meat, and can be misleading to consumers. As such, there have been calls for a grading system to be implemented.
Addressing water scarcity and other agri issues through innovative irrigation
Smart irrigation helps address the challenges of water scarcity and unpredictable weather, and promotes operational efficiency, writes Eran Ossmy, president of Rivulis’ Micro Irrigation Division.
Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to combat diseases in animals
When it comes to protecting your animals’ health, vaccination stands out as one of the most crucial and effective preventive measures available, writes Boehringer Ingelheim’s Dr Michelle Enslin.
From livestock to live shows, don’t miss Bloem Show 2025!
Mark your calendar for 25 April to 3 May 2025, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Bloem Show!
Managing farm debt: strategies for financial stability
While adverse conditions like droughts and market volatility cannot be controlled, debt can be managed. Cobus du Plessis advises farmers on how to approach debt during difficult financial times.
Winemaking on an old Cape Town farm
From politics to premium wines, the Graaff family continues to make its mark. Sir De Villiers Graaff, Fourth Baronet of the family and De Grendel Wine Estate, spoke to Brian Berkman about continuing the tradition.
Choose Pannar as a partner for your agricultural journey
As a farmer, there are numerous strategies you can implement independently to boost productivity in the short term. This includes using quality inputs like fertilisers and improved seeds and adopting innovative techniques to optimise your resources. However, if your goal is to truly succeed, you’ll need great partners for the journey.
Smart technology: using remote irrigation control to gain an edge
When Rentia Boerdery in the Free State, needed to install a system to irrigate fields from a storage dam on a piece of their land with drier soil, they turned to Agrico.
The rise and rise of WeGrow Piggery
WeGrow Piggery started with a 600-sow unit, and has since increased its herd to 1 300 sows. With a feed mill in the pipeline, WeGrow looks set to continue on its growth trajectory.
