Getting the basics right for the new grain season

From an agricultural perspective, the 2015/2016 grain production season will probably force many farmers to take an in-depth look at their strategies.

Getting the basics right for the new grain season
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In 2014 Minister Pravin Gordhan, the then-minister of cooperative governance put forward a ‘Back to Basics’ strategy to turn around the country’s municipalities.

READ Tested farming model the secret to co-op’s success

His recent efforts in his capacity as Finance Minister to avoid a downgrade show he remains a strong believer in getting the basics right.

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From an agricultural perspective, the 2015/2016 grain production season will probably force many farmers to take an in-depth look at their strategies – and perhaps take Gordhan’s ‘Back to Basics’ approach to heart when looking towards the next production season.

Climatologists have confirmed that El Niño, which resulted in dry conditions in southern Africa, has made way for La Niña, which should see rainfall patterns return closer to normal.

Domestic grain prices are linked to international markets and fluctuate between import and export parity. Due to the drought, grain traded around import parity. This might change in the next production season, with prices moving away from import parity.

In these turbulent times, basic aspects the average farmer should consider include:

  • Sticking to optimal dates for planting. Use moisture meters to determine the moisture content of each land to decide which fields will be planted and which will lay fallow. Also, determine the nutritional status of the soil through soil sampling. Winter ploughing could improve the moisture absorption ability of the soil, which is important for soil moisture conservation.
  • Maintenance of tractors and other equipment. A major breakdown could add to the risk of you not being able to plant the entire intended area in time.
  • Choosing cultivars with an above-average yield probability for the planned yield potential. Often, profits are eroded when unrealistic yields are used in planning. If you experiment with new cultivars or production techniques, rather limit them to only a portion of your operation. Focus on recovering from the drought and putting your business on a financially sound footing.
  • Approaching your financier with your plans for the next season. Depending on the impact of the drought on your financial position, some new terms and conditions might have to be negotiated to allow for continued finance.

If you have carry-over debt, avoid structuring it over a very long period. It could put your business in a tight spot if another unforeseen adverse event occurs. It’s important to find the balance between the term of restructured debt and free cash flow to pay your debt.

Finally, avoid ‘reading’ the futures market. Rather consider a balanced marketing plan that will protect your business from declining prices.