Crops

The process of eating a litchi reveals a greater truth about the fruit’s production: crack the hard part and reap the sweet rewards. While many have opted out of this journey, litchi farmer André Schoeman has continuously placed his bets on the crop, focusing on timing to get maximum returns.

Carrots have a deep root system and this needs to be taken into account when preparing the soil for this crop, says Bill Kerr.

Addressing the challenge of Russian wheat aphid in South Africa requires a multifaceted approach that combines host-plant resistance and biological, cultural and chemical control.

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.

Oedema, bursting cabbages, tip burn and cold damage may cause concern but they can be prevented and managed, writes Bill Kerr.

Cauliflower is very sensitive to a boron deficiency, much more so than other cruciferous crops, writes Bill Kerr.

Kathryn Eybers and Ross Dwyer have transformed a degraded ostrich farm into an economically viable, vibrant healthy ecosystem.

Carrot farming has changed considerably over the past 30 years, making it difficult for new entrants to get into the market, says Bill Kerr.

Farmers know that nitrogen is necessary for growing cabbages and other crops, but many do not fully understand its importance for maximising yields, writes Bill Kerr.

While the presence of weeds strongly influences the pest status of cutworm, the influence of soil moisture on factors such as their biology and behaviour are often overlooked. Entomologist and Bt-maize expert Prof Johnnie van den Berg and Zunel van Eeden, a master’s student at North-West University’s Integrated Pest Management group, have undertaken research on cutworm behaviour, control and insecticide resistance.

This year, Two-a-Day’s Stewart Murray Champagne Orchard Trophy went to a Cripps Red apple orchard at Dunmanway Farm. Owner James Downes spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his exceptional orchard.

Plant breeding has progressed to the point where one can now plant two or three varieties of broccoli over the year, says Bill Kerr.