Growing potatoes with nature
Producing potatoes biologically requires patience. But, as farmer Jan Genis explained to Jay Ferreira, this holistic and
sustainable method improves soil health.
A look at South Africa’s pomegranate production
Pomona is the largest pomegranate producer in South Africa and one of the largest in the southern hemisphere. Jay Ferreira spoke to founding member and CEO Brent Geddes about the operation’s beginnings, challenges and future.
Beating drought with the help of resurrection plants
If molecular biologist Prof Jill Farrant is successful, farmers could soon have access to cultivars that can withstand one
or even two months of extreme drought.
If the soil comes first, the rest will follow
Diversification and a focus on soil health have earned Danie Slabbert the title of Free State Agriculture’s Young Farmer of the Year 2013. Lindi van Rooyen spoke to him.
Sandy soils in a low rainfall area can be productive
Diligent work, research and innovation reveal the secret of utilising the moisture stored in a water-table soil. Innovator and tillage pioneer Carel Koch spoke to Farmer’s Weekly.
Conserving our heritage
The Ruperts, one of South Africa’s most prominent families, are using their foothold in the local wine industry to save a small part of the country’s proud wine heritage through the Old Vines Initiative.
Great wine with a clear conscience – Graham Beck Wines
Mossie Basson, conservation manager at Graham Beck Wines in Robertson, has developed a conservation plan that has rehabilitated poor soils and decreased chemical and water use, while increasing the natural resilience of vineyards. All this is helping the vines to produce better quality grapes. Denene Erasmus reports.
All roads lead to Rhône
The local wine industry is undergoing a slow but steady revolution, with traditional thinking making way for daring new ideas. Ken Forrester spoke to Denene Erasmus about the growing popularity of Rhône grape varieties.
Producing award-winning potatoes
A careful expansion strategy and optimum risk management has earned Johan van Zyl the title of Free State Potato Farmer of the Year in 2007 and 2013. Lindi van Rooyen finds out what it takes to stay ahead in the potato game.
Vinitaly – the world’s oldest wine exhibition
The beautiful city of Verona, situated in the northern part of Italy, plays host to the country’s largest and most important wine expo, Vinitaly. The annual event attracts almost 150 000 visitors and has become a hub for the international trade in Italian wines. Denene Erasmus reports.
Milling company helps with land reform sugarcane farms
While it’s well-known that the vast majority of South Africa’s land reform transfers have failed due to factors such as inadequate
post-settlement support, in Mpumalanga the opposite is happening, thanks to TSB Sugar’s proactive approach. Lloyd Phillips reports.
From a security guard to a farmer
Lufuno Managa, a young farmer from Limpopo, found that big dreams don’t only come true in big cities. He left Pretoria to return home where he is now growing tomatoes and vegetables and living his dream. Peter Mashala spoke to him.
