Crops

Communication is paramount in business, and yet many managers give little thought to its importance. Are you one of those, asks Peter Hughes, or are you giving it the attention it deserves?

Water is a big determinant of the success of a crop. But far more than just availability, how water is applied, when, and how much, is nothing short of a science. Irrigation experts talk about how an irrigation system should be approached for best results.

Here, we have a Spanish Sweet Palermo tortilla for you. Although it might seem easy, cooking a good tortilla actually takes a bit of experience. But don’t let that stop you trying – because the more effort you put into making something, the more you enjoy the final result, right?

DNA Technologies claims their new subsurface irrigation systems can overcome challenges that have plagued the technology in South Africa, potentially saving water and boosting efficiency for fruit and grape production.

Managers should do their best to create a work environment where employees truly enjoy their jobs. This isn’t as easy as it sounds! It takes planning and effort to establish a pleasant, positive atmosphere, says Peter Hughes.

Len Dekker, senior director at law firm Len Dekker Attorneys, breaks down the recent Supreme Court of Appeal judgment that may be of interest to farmers.

Outstanding managers are always good communicators, and good communicators are always good listeners, says Peter Hughes.

We all know the expression ‘charity begins at home’, but why then do so many people make a mess of it in their own lives and businesses?

Consumers and legislators in the EU are pushing for food production methods that neutralise carbon emissions. What impact will this have on food availability, costs, exports and imports? Lindi Botha asked Michaël Wilde, director of Bionext in the Netherlands, a body that represents the organic food industry.

Erence Manyako, researcher at the Agricultural Research Council’s Natural Resources and Engineering division, looks at available technologies to offset continuous load-shedding in South Africa.

Prof William Beinart shares insight into his fascinating book, 'The Rise of Conservation in South Africa, Settlers, Livestock, and the Environment 1770-1950', and the current state of the Karoo.

A manicured lawn is the epitome of garden elegance, and achieving perfect edges is akin to framing a canvas, enhancing the overall beauty of your outdoor living space.

Local communities should be treated as valued stakeholders and sustainability partners in conservation and tourism, say Ian Gordon-Cumming and Prof Kevin Mearns of Unisa’s Department of Environmental Sciences.

We don’t like thinking or even talking about death, but it’s essential that we prepare our family and business successors for the event. Have you done so?

Potatoes are a notoriously tricky crop to produce, making transformation in the sector extra-challenging. However, through collaboration with Potatoes SA and mentorship, Limpopo farmer Walter Mathidi has boosted production. Lindi Botha reports.

Agriculture is South Africa has faced unprecedented challenges over the past few years, yet, for the most part, has survived the storms. In the 2023 Baseline Outlook for the agriculture sector, compiled by the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy, the next decade is purported to hold the key to future success.

Accurate job titles provide a professional image and give credibility to customers, suppliers and other stakeholders, even if you are a small owner-managed business, says Peter Hughes.

Farming’s impact on the environment is not usually front of mind when buying a piece of land, but without securing environmental authorisation, farmers could find themselves in a world of trouble. Lindi Botha speaks to Ngwanarachuene Mampane, director of Westleigh Environmental Services, about remaining on the right side of the law, how to apply for authorisation and the time frame involved.

Insurability within the grain storage sector is essential but can be complicated, the delegates at Agbiz Grain’s recent Grain and Oilseeds Value Chain Symposium told Magda du Toit.

Does your behaviour throttle and limit your ‘luck factor’, asks Peter Hughes, or does it expose you to opportunities and bring ‘luck’ your way?