Transformation status
I recently attended a workshop on the transformation – or lack thereof – that’s taken place in market agencies since government launched its BBBEE requirements.
How tomato growers can practice IPM
When it comes to Integrated Pest Management (IPM), tomatoes have quite a complex array of requirements which will depend on the varieties planted and the region where they are grown, as some diseases and pests only occur in certain areas.
A stomping family success
World-renowned for its award-winning wines and olive products, Kloovenburg also produces table grapes and figs for export. With four sons all wanting to farm, Annalene and Pieter du Toit are planning to diversify their farming enterprise even further. Keri Harvey paid them a visit.
The giant stirs
At the recent Potatoes SA Marketing Seminar held in Pretoria, Africa came under the spotlight.
Practicing IPM with cabbages
It requires a lot of observation and experience, but Integrated Pest Management (IPM) can be practiced with cabbages.
Success for emerging citrus farmers
Aimed at bringing emerging farmers into the commercial cycle, the Sundays River Citrus Company’s development project is that rarity – one that actually works. Samantha Barnes reports.
Biodynamic preparations and compost
According to Wikus, a distinguishing feature of biodynamic farming is the use of nine biodynamic preparations which are said to enhance soil quality and stimulate plant life.
Top winery dabbles in biodynamics
Haskell Vineyards in Stellenbosch has taken a giant leap of faith by converting one of the farm’s top vineyard blocks into a biodynamic farming experiment. Wikus Pretorius, general manager, shares some biodynamic farming ideas with Denene Erasmus.
Canola – a viable alternative
One of South Africa’s most experienced canola farmers, AJ Louw of Malmesbury, tells Denene Erasmus about the benefits of canola in
a rotation system and as a cash crop in its own right.
IPM for cabbage aphids
When it comes to cabbage aphids and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), success will depend on the crop being grown, the season and other considerations.
Why we need integrated pest management
Vegetable farmers are increasingly expected to supply produce with low pesticide residues.
Think about it!
I’m not against a farmer supplying direct to a supermarket. I am, however, not in favour of a farmer giving everything to a supermarket. This can rebound on a farmer in a variety of ways.
Haute couture food garden
As a luxury art, hospitality and wine destination, Delaire Graff Estate blends many elements, but its roots are in the soil. Its gourmet restaurants are stocked with produce from its carefully landscaped, biodynamic greenhouse and gardens.
Saving labour
One of the hot topics these days with vegetable farmers is ways of reducing their dependence on labour.
Conservation farming on communal land
Crop farming on communal land is suffering from the effects of soil erosion and climate change. But KZN communal crop farmer Nicholas Madondo is using conservation farming methods to fight back. Lloyd Phillips visited him.
A valuable asset
I was most interested in Peter Mashala’s article (27 July, pg 58) about his recent trip with minister of agriculture Tina Joemat-Pettersson and others on a fact-finding junket to Costa Rica, courtesy of Walmart.
Veggies boost the bottom line
By including vegetables in their diversified farming business the Mongs have been able to make better use of machinery and labour already at their disposal, thus lowering the fixed input cost for each division. Denene Erasmus reports.
More common potato diseases
Early blight is caused by the fungus Alternaria solani, and attacks tomatoes as well as potatoes.
Learning the ropes
Many people think that when they plan to market their fruit or vegetables, their first stop should be a supermarket.
