Know your crop pests: Cutworm
As moths, both sexes of the cutworm have pale brown to greyish forewings with black lines and irregular markings.
Growing proteas: step-by-step guide
Also known as the sugarbush, this fynbos species is cultivated for the cut-flower market.
Inoculating legume crops
When legume crops are inoculated, the plants produce their own nitrogen, saving you a great deal of money.
Corn cricket: what you need about this crop pest
The corn cricket occurs in most regions, and is well-adapted to living in dry, arid or semi-arid habitats, where it is active during the day.
Canola pests
Identifying the mites, aphids, fleas and worms that prey on this crop and the importance of regular inspections for infestations.
Vegetable sowing and planting guide
Planting vegetables at the optimum time will increase yields and profits. The department of agriculture suggests the following guideline for vegetables that can still be planted in the coming months.
About canola
Canola production in SA is usually lower than demand and favourable prices can therefore be achieved.
Know your crop pests: White cabbage butterfly
The butterfly is large and strong-flying with a wingspan of 5,5cm. Both sexes are creamy-white, with a black head, thorax and abdomen.
How dung beetles can help you
The beneficial role played by insects in agriculture should not be underestimated, and this is certainly true of dung beetles, says Paul Donovan.
Growing cabbages – 1
This vegetable is popular throughout the world because of its adaptability to a wide range of climatic conditions, ease of production and storage, and food value.
What to do if you don’t have enough manure
Various options are available if you want to ensure good yield.
Know your crop pests: African army worm
Despite its common name, the African army worm is in fact the larva (caterpillar) of a moth.
Improving your soil
Kraal manure contains all the nutrients a plant requires, but not
always in the desired proportions.
What you need to know about plant galls
Galls can show up on a plant as a result of attacks by pests and fungi,says Paul Donovan.
Using kraal manure as fertiliser
It’s difficult to move fertilisers from town to your village or farm, but there is an alternative to buying in fertiliser.
About neem oil
The origins of this ‘new’ pesticide can be traced back several centuries, when it was used in cosmetics and medicines, notes Paul Donovan.
Understanding erosion – Part 2
This week we take a closer look at soil erosion, which reduces productivity and pollutes watercourses, wetlands and lakes.
