Farming Basics

Jean Hugo, a post-graduate student at the Tshwane University of Technology, and Leon Hugo, author on environmental matters and former professor of geography at the University of Pretoria, write about the importance of regenerative agriculture for small-scale farmers, and the challenges related to making the shift.

Limousin breeder Manjo Stiglingh and biomedical scientist Ilinde du Plessis explain the role of the F94L variant of the myostatin protein when crossbreeding with Limousin bulls, as well as the advantages it holds.

Orchid expert Jacques Botha spoke to Linda Piegl about how to nurture the Phalaenopsis orchid, which requires precise watering and needs to be kept in a temperature-controlled environment.

While adverse conditions like droughts and market volatility cannot be controlled, debt can be managed. Cobus du Plessis advises farmers on how to approach debt during difficult financial times.

South Africa’s cannabis and hemp regulations remain a topic of debate and uncertainty, particularly when it comes to commercial use and small-scale production. Cannabis experts Shaad Vayej and Trenton Birch spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the challenges that small-scale cannabis and hemp farmers face.

Farming requires patience, resilience, and strategic planning. Duncan Serapelwane, owner of Moalosi Bonsmara, shares essential advice for emerging farmers, focusing on sustainability, budgeting, biosecurity, and leveraging nature for long-term success.

With rising global temperatures due to climate change, heat stress in livestock is a growing concern. Ranier van Heerden, Evonik’s business manager for ruminant solutions in sub-Saharan Africa, shared insights with Octavia Avesca Spandiel on early signs of heat stress in cattle, its physiological effects, and practical management strategies, offering valuable advice to help farmers mitigate this issue.

Oilseeds play a dual role on a crop farm, providing a valuable product and a mechanism for enhancing soil health and reducing input costs. Lindi Botha reports on the key considerations to make the best of sunflower, soya bean, and canola crops.

There are numerous outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease still active in South Africa. This article takes a look at signs and symptoms of the disease, as well as the vaccine that is available.

Volatile operating environments and consumer scrutiny are putting increased pressure on farming businesses. To navigate these challenges and stay the course, farmers must focus on four areas: succession planning, data collection and analysis, traceability systems, and reporting on their environmental and social impact.

Brucellosis poses threats to animal and human health and has severe economic implications. Dr Didi Claassen, general manager of Afrivet Technical and Training Services, spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the transmission, clinical signs, and control strategies of brucellosis in cattle, sheep and goats.

Preventing mite infestation is a constant struggle for poultry farmers, with the poultry red mite and scaly leg mite posing the greatest threats in South Africa. Octavia Avesca Spandiel reports on how farmers can identify, manage, and control these pests effectively.