Cut insect damage by installing bat and owl boxes
Bats and owls have a significant contribution to make to controlling pests on farms. Provide them with adequate housing, and these insect and rodent eaters will offer a cost-effective, consistent...
A more holistic way of farming
In this article, Zunel van Eeden, a master’s student at North-West University, explains why integrated pest management provides short as well as long-term, sustainable benefits.
Emerging trends in cannabis genetics and strain development
The search for specific therapeutic effects is one of the most intriguing trends in cannabis genetics, writes Thomas Walker.
How to cultivate your garden soil
The soil in your garden is a living organism that needs air, water and nourishment. That’s why tilling, or soil cultivation, is imperative for a healthy garden.
Advice for cannabis entrepreneurs from experienced growers
To be a successful cannabis producer requires a disciplined, business-oriented approach. Fortunately, lessons learnt by seasoned professionals can provide guidance to prospective entrepreneurs, says Thomas Walker.
Guideline to the most popular cannabis extraction methods
The effective extraction of cannabinoids, terpenes and other components is crucial in the production of cannabis products. Thomas Walker discusses various extraction techniques, and how they affect the end product.
How to store seed properly for maximum yield
Peter Craven, seed supply and quality lead at Syngenta, and Kobus van Huyssteen, technical manager at the South African National Seed Organisation, spoke to Magda du Toit about the importance...
Nematode management starts with knowledge
Some species of nematodes, or roundworms, can become a serious problem, says Dr Driekie Fourie, technical product lead for Syngenta Seedcare in Africa and the Middle East.
Pest control: using both old and new methods
Magda du Toit looks at the interconnectedness of more traditional pest control and the newer integrated pest management. Some experts also give advice on how to keep pests and diseases...
Harvesting ‘grey water’ for drip irrigation
Irrigation is an essential part of producing good crops, even in a vegetable garden or home orchard. Here’s a cost-effective way of ensuring that your fruit and vegetables get enough...
How to plan a community food project
A well-organised garden project can supply a community with fresh fruit and vegetables at low prices, as well as provide jobs. The first step is to calculate how much you...
Using nematodes for biological control of crop pests
Mankaba Matshidiso Whitney Matli, an agricultural economist part of the Agricultural Research Council Professional Development Programme, discusses the importance of biological control to decrease the damage caused by various crop...
