Fresh Produce industry – more competitive
In the fresh produce business today, competition among role players has risen to unprecedented levels as individuals and companies all vie for a share of the proverbial pie.
Producing butternuts: Spacing, yield, diseases
The essentials of growing butternuts are similar to those of other cucurbits. Spacing may vary, however, depending on the cultivar. Some butternuts are compact growers, while others produce long runners.
Market agents code of conduct
A Code of Conduct (CoC) ensures stability and purpose within a sector and a measure of confidence for clients. Market agents have a CoC embodied in the constitution of the...
Getting watermelons ready for the market
To obtain high prices on the market, a watermelon grower has to produce fruit that looks good as well as tastes delicious.
The strange history of the butternut
The butternut has a most unlikely origin. It was bred by a Charles Leggett of Stow, Massachusetts, in the USA in the mid-1940s. He was not a plant breeder, but...
Common watermelon fungal diseases
Watermelons are generally grown in fairly dry climates as this reduces the risk of diseases considerably.
Fresh produce conference season
We’re approaching the fresh produce sector’s ‘conference season’ once again.
Watermelon weeding & watering
Weed control depends on a farmer’s particular situation. For example, where weeds are rife, a weedkiller may be needed.
Producers returning to markets?
Quite a few market insiders have told me that producers have had enough of supplying supermarkets and are stepping up their deliveries to the markets.
Planting watermelon seeds and seedlings
Success with watermelons, as with most fruit and vegetables, begins with getting the basics right.
Quality sells
Supplying a quality product is easier said than done. Within the farming context there are many challenges that have to be overcome before quality products can be produced.
Give your watermelons the correct nutrient mix
There are several important considerations when planning a fertiliser programme for your watermelon crop.
