Dealing with soya rust
Soya rust is spread by windblown spores and results in significant crop losses in many soya bean-growing regions of the world, including South Africa.
Growing Chinese cabbage
While deemed a ‘weed’ in countries such as Kenya and Zimbabwe, Chinese cabbage is a popular vegetable on local markets.
Cultivating cleome
Also known as oorpeultjie, lerotho and mazonde, this herb is a rich source of nutrients, especially vitamins A and C and the minerals calcium and iron.
Plum production: an overview
Most plums are consumed fresh. The remainder are processed and used as canned or dried fruit.
Common cabbage diseases
Cabbage is vulnerable to several diseases. All can be controlled to a greater or lesser extent, but in some cases the only solution is to plant a resistant variety.
Preventing hybridisation to protect natural resources
Some farming enterprises, such as wild harvesting, require particular care to ensure long-term sustainability and protect the environment.
Growing a pecan tree in your garden
Pecans are not only delicious; they are amongst the healthiest nuts available, says vegetable specialist Bill Kerr.
Preparing a good seedbed for tomatoes
Tomato seedlings grow best in a well-drained seedbed under full sun and protected from strong wind. Irrigation should be frequent but light.
Controlling fleabane in wheat and maize
This winter weed is widespread throughout Southern Africa. It has small seeds and is a shallow germinator.
Tomato pests to look out for
This crop is targeted by a wide range of pests. Infestation will vary from place to place, and from season to season, but some form of pest control will invariably...
Using manure as fertiliser: Mistakes to avoid
Livestock manure is a popular form of fertiliser, particularly when budgets do not allow for commercial fertiliser. But Dr Gerhardus Nortjé, a senior lecturer at Unisa, says that because manure...
Irrigating your home garden
If you apply too much water, you’re in danger of leaching nitrogen out of reach of the plant roots, says vegetable expert Bill Kerr.
Fertilisation: basic principles that every farmer should know
Achieving optimal yields is greatly dependent on providing crops with the right nutrition at the right time. Understanding the role of fertilisers and ensuring the correct application can make the...
Know your watermelon varieties
The watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) originated in Africa, where tribes in arid areas used it as an emergency water source.
Getting started with hydroponics
This new series will outline the basics of growing nutritious vegetables without the use of soil.
Know your invasive species
This article looks at the beefwood, balloon vine and other species that, by law, have to be controlled or eradicated.
Keep earthworms to improve soil quality
Earthworms play a crucial role in improving soil quality, and every farmer should try to maintain a healthy population of these remarkable creatures.
Get intercropping right to achieve the highest yield
Careful plant selection and good process management will help ensure success.
Growing tomatoes: know the varieties
Tomatoes are an important part of our diet, as well as being highly nutritious. Bill Kerr tells us more about this versatile fruit, and the varieties that are most suitable...
Syringa berries are highly toxic
Syringa berries are highly toxic to livestock as well as children and dogs, warns Prof Cheryl McCrindle of the University of Pretoria. No specific treatment is available, so caution is...
