What about farmers’ markets?
The concept of a farmers’ market is probably the oldest version of agricultural marketing we know and remains a popular choice for many all over the world.
Fertilising cucurbits for crop success
You don’t fertilise cucurbits solely according to the plant’s requirements – you also have to take into account the soil’s fertility.
Ensuring optimal greenhouse irrigation
Irrigating in the correct quantities and at the right frequency are key to greater production in a hydroponic greenhouse system. Greenhouse specialist Martin von Holdt shared his knowledge on the...
Table grape farmer’s success
This year, top honours in the Hex Valley Table Grape Association Block Competition went to Hannes du Toit, who successfully manipulated the tricky and relatively new Sugrasixteen grape variety to...
Spacing of Cucurbitaceae
I’ve been devoting so much time to the spacing of Cucurbitaceae because this aspect is so little understood and has been a limiting factor for countless producers over the years.
The relationship business
Last week, I provided a ‘Market Agent’s Checklist’. But, as with most things in life, it turns out this checklist is far from one-sided.
Get the rotation right, says leading rooibos producer
Willie Nel, recipient of Rooibos Limited’s Producer of the Year Award, says sustainable rooibos production depends on a rotation cycle that will ensure consistently good quality yields. Denene Erasmus reports.
How to fine-tune pumpkin spacing
In the last issue, the importance of spacing Cucurbitaceae was discussed. Aspects other than climate will influence the spacing.
Market agent’s checklist
The list that follows is by no means complete, but should serve as a guide to any producer who wants to check if they’re getting the best value for their...
Cladodes make good business
Cactus pear cladode production is a good enterprise for farmers in semi-arid and arid parts of South Africa. It requires little input costs and is highly sought after as animal...
From farm labourer to an award-winning tomato producer
Starting as a farm labourer at the age of 10, with no formal education, Ntuseni Nesane became a leading black commercial farmer and an award-winning tomato producer. The University of...
Laws to look out for
Market agents, by the very nature of their occupations – they represent producers in a financial capacity – have a law especially written to regulate their activities and protect the...
