Crops

Three years ago, few would have foreseen that blueberry prices would plunge by more than 50%, forcing many investors to the brink of collapse. Berry farmer Luan Swart of Mpumalanga explained his strategies for weathering the storm to Lindi Botha.

Planning and forward thinking are important in farming, says Kobela Mokgohloa, the owner of Korema Farm in Winterveldt near Pretoria. He spoke to Magda du Toit about how he grew his cucumber production, as well as his plans for the future.

Farmers can reclaim their power by integrating powerful insect-resistant seed traits in their maize crop production, thanks to Pannar's PowerCore™ technology

These much-loved vegetables, which are technically fruits, were among the earliest cultivated crops in the world, says Bill Kerr.

With blackleg being amongst the worst diseases of canola, South African researchers are conducting trials to find the most resistant cultivars and most effective fungicides for local conditions. Dr Gert van Coller of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture offers advice on control of the disease.

Light Ngobeni and Zinhle Nkosi, agricultural economists and master’s students at the University of Pretoria and the University of Limpopo respectively, write about the importance of cassava production for farmers and consumers in South Africa, and how to develop the value chain.

Lettuce is beholden to an inconsistent market, with demand often dependent on the weather. Sustainable production therefore requires careful management of supply and demand. Equally important, as farmer Jakkie Mellet explained to Lindi Botha, is a shorter, more productive, growth cycle.

To ensure a successful crop, it’s crucial to plant out the seedlings at the optimal time. Getting it wrong may prove expensive, says Bill Kerr.

One of the most important decisions the Van der Berg brothers ever made was to include the production of cactus pear in their farming operation. Dewald van der Berg spoke to Annelie Coleman about their business.

Yield potential refers to the maximum yield that a farmer can obtain from a crop in a given environment and is largely determined by a specific combination of factors. Magda du Toit spoke to industry experts about the basic principles that determine yield and profit in maize farming, and how a farmer can improve results.

Limpopo farmers Kosie and Manie Eloff, faced with the need to re-establish their avocado orchards, decided to conduct a multiyear experiment comparing the yields of trees planted on ridged and level soil surfaces. They discussed their methods and results with Lindi Botha.

Growing tomatoes in tunnels is not as easy or affordable as some people think. Do your research before committing yourself, cautions Bill Kerr.