Saddened & annoyed
Recently, I wrote about one of our fresh produce markets in a way some readers might have found a bit scathing.
Beware the thrips threat!
The western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis) was accidentally introduced into this country some years ago, with severe consequences for many crops.
Growing diversity in the Swartland
Western Cape finalists for 2012 Grain Producer of the Year, Francois and Pieter Eksteen, who farm in the Rooi Karoo near Piketberg, follow in the pioneering footsteps of their father, finding stength in a flexible approach and value in market control.
It’s not too late
Recently, I paid a two-day visit to one of our medium-size markets, and want to try and describe the scene that greets anybody who drives through the main entrance.
Growing lettuce for the home garden – part 2
This issue we look at the different kinds of lettuce available and which are best for your home garden.
‘Goliath’ of the fynbos industry
In 2012, Jacky Goliath won many awards for Nursery which she co-owns and runs in Simondium near Franschhoek. She and business partner
Elton Jefthas started a backyard business growing 1 000 fynbos plants in 2001. Now they produce more than 600 000 plants per year.
Controlling the African bollworm
As a tomato grower you always need to be on the lookout for the African bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera), no matter the season.
Market agents – will they never learn?
Recently a senior market agent was complaining to me about other market agents on the market bad-mouthing his sales staff when talking to producers. As he spoke, my hackles rose.
From fruit hawker to successful farmer
Richard Myburgh started out small, buying fruit from producers and selling it to small businesses. But his business grew quickly and when he eventually outgrew the packhouse that he was renting on a farm in the Vyeboom area, he decided it was time for him to buy his own farm. Denene Erasmus reports.
Doing it ourselves
Many of us are quick to find fault in the business sector where we operate, but we’re slow to implement changes.
Spray your tomatoes effectively
Everyone who knows anything about tomatoes knows that spraying and disease control are extremely important. Tomatoes have a reputation for being especially susceptible to a host of pests and diseases.
Big winners Van Loveren’s four cousins
Winners of the Agricultural Writers of South Africa’s Farmer of the Year award for 2012, the Retiefs from Van Loveren in Robertson believe in value for money and doing things on a big scale – and this does not only apply to their popular big bottle wines. Denene Erasmus reports.
