Building a self-sustaining farm: soil and pest management insights
Bill Kerr shares how he transformed nutrient-deficient soil into a thriving, self-sustaining farm. Learn about pest control methods and soil improvement techniques.
It makes sense to include more sorghum in diets
Gluten-free sorghum contains protein, dietary fibre, and B vitamins like niacin and riboflavin, as well as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. It’s also a good alternative to planting maize, writes Magda du Toit.
Alternative methods to combat herbicide resistance
The development of herbicide resistance is forcing farmers to incorporate non-chemical management practices in their weed control programmes. Dr Michael Walsh spoke about how it’s done in Australia at a farmers’ day in the Western Cape.
Top European apple being trialled in SA
Treequattro is looking for South African producers to augment production of its non-oxidating Maribelle apple variety, which is boosting farm income in Europe.
Sponsored
Unlocking agricultural potential with Kynoch
Kynoch Fertilizer is dedicated to innovation and adding value for producers. The company’s comprehensive support covers the entire process of unlocking resource information, followed by value-added completion.
An ancient trade: olive oil production in southern Spain
A group of agricultural journalists representing 15 member countries of the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists recently visited the south of Spain to explore the agricultural operations and opportunities unique to that region.
Conduct a soil analysis before starting a vegetable farm
Starting a small vegetable farm can yield good results from the first year, but conducting a soil analysis is important. This ensures you know what your soil needs for optimal growth and productivity.
Why soya bean is a popular crop in SA
In this article, Zunel van Eeden delves into the socioeconomic and agronomic benefits associated with soya bean production, while also addressing the persistent challenges posed by insect pests and diseases that have threatened harvests over the season and which have impacted many producers.
Olives: Get the basics right to improve yields!
Bennie Diedericks, head of consultants at Resalt, said at the SA Olive field day that farmers would succeed if they focused on the things under their control.
Sponsored
Stress management strategies for wheat
Wheat (Triticum aestivum) has a rich history dating back to 9600 BC and is a staple cereal grain cultivated worldwide. It symbolises development, advancement, abundance and wealth. Wheat is metaphorically associated with growth, hard work, love and charity and is frequently mentioned in the Bible.
Nurturing growth: exploring the sorghum industry in South Africa
Marguerite Pienaar, a junior economist at Grain SA, and Petru Fourie, convenor of the Sorghum Cluster, provide an overview of sorghum production in the country.
Starting a no-frills vegetable project on a small farm
The concept of no-till is growing in leaps and bounds and is a major way of farming in countries like Brazil. South Africans should also adopt this successful method, advises Bill Kerr.