Almonds: High value, huge potential
The establishment of an almond-processing facility in Robertson has the potential to turn South Africa into a leading exporter of these nuts. Stephan and Hans le Roux of Amanteco Almonds spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the opportunities and pitfalls associated with this crop.
New net solution to protect fruit from sunburn
Some growers in the Southern Cape are using nets that can easily be draped over tree rows to protect pome fruit against sunburn. Apart from their convenience and flexibility, the new nets cost a fraction of fixed net structures. Daan Brink of Two-a-Day and Ebbie Raubenheimer of Nulandis spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the technology, which was developed in Australia.
Learning from apple growers in Poland
Poland is the largest producer of apples in the European Union. On a recent visit to the country, Annelie Coleman met Bartłomiej Brodzik from the Apple Factory, one of Poland’s major apple growers and exporters.
Pecan nut farming: high cost, big returns
The boom in nut prices in recent years is expected to continue as consumers opt for healthier foods. This has increasingly led to farmers replacing their crops with nut trees. While pecan farming can be a lucrative venture, aspiring nut growers must begin with a solid foundation, says Shane Eva, farm manager for Halls and Sons.
How pioneers make mango production work
Bernie van den Heever and Danie Smit are proving that mango production can become a thriving enterprise in the Western Cape.
Litchis & avos: using precision farming to improve yields
Demand for litchis and avocados has soared and encouraged producers to embrace precision farming methods. Stephan Schoeman, owner of Soetkalmoes Consultation in Nelspruit, an advisory service for the tree crops industry, tells Gerhard Uys how these practices are improving yield and crop quality.
Pecan nuts: how to plan an orchard and prepare the soil
To maximise pecan nut production, it is crucial to prepare the soil properly. This includes applying fertiliser correctly, ensuring sufficient macroelements, and proper orchard planning. A team from Laeveld Agrochem recently gave a presentation on these aspects.
Eastern Cape farmers head west to diversify
Two ways of reducing farming risk are to grow a variety of crops and plant in different geographical areas. Several citrus farmers from the Eastern Cape and other provinces have done both: they’ve bought land near Robertson to diversify production, and introduced new crops. Glenneis Kriel spoke to Hannes Joubert, and his son-in law, Jan Rabie, about their new venture.
Macadamia fertilisation: an expert guide for SA growers
Dr Gerhard Nortje, a fertiliser consultant and senior lecturer at the University of South Africa, says that correct soil pH and nutrient balance are crucial for the sustainable and profitable production of macadamia trees.
Mechanised fruit farming: increase profits and create jobs
Johan Esterhuyse, who produces a range of stone fruit varieties has introduced mechanisation on his farm to ensure profitability and long-term sustainability. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the positive impact of these innovations.
Macadamias: a growing industry, but challenges await
South Africa’s macadamia industry is expected to double production over the next few years. But processors will have to find new markets and add value to nuts to maintain exports, according to Alex Whyte, sales and marketing manager for Green Farms Nut Company.
Strawberries: overcoming the stumbling blocks
Strawberry production in South Africa is expensive, with exhorbitant set-up costs. The market is also very competitive. Mark Miller, operations manager at Redberry Strawberry Farm in George, spoke to Jay Ferreira about how the company has tapped into the local and export markets, and how agritourism has given them an extra edge over local competitors.
