Farming Basics

The present genetic stock of these dairy goats in South Africa originated from animals imported from Switzerland in 1951. Their milk is used to produce a variety of hard and soft cheeses.

The message is clear: in terms of both quantity and quality, water is a declining resource, and dedicated management is required to make the most out of every drop. Dr Heinz Meissner and Hylton Cruse outlined the advantages of efficient water storage to Lindi Botha.

This new series will outline the basics of growing nutritious vegetables without the use of soil.

This article looks at the beefwood, balloon vine and other species that, by law, have to be controlled or eradicated.

Despite being continually under the spotlight, rural crime in South Africa continues to plague farmers. Some respond by leaving the sector; others struggle on after having lost property or even loved ones. However, studies show that while the justice system receives much of the blame, farmers should be doing more to secure themselves.

A widespread problem in sub-Saharan Africa, bovine brucellosis can cripple a cattle or dairy farming operation. As no cure is available, all infected animals are required by law to be slaughtered. This makes prevention and control of the disease a crucial aspect of a cattle operation.

Intestinal worms are a serious problem for communal farmers, and community management protocols have therefore become increasingly important.

Earthworms play a crucial role in improving soil quality, and every farmer should try to maintain a healthy population of these remarkable creatures.

Careful plant selection and good process management will help ensure success.

For many people, the yearning to spite their spouses by excluding them from their wills is irresistible. They see this as a way this as a way of settling long-standing grudges or posthumously punishing spouses for past indiscretions.

When drafting a will, the focus is often only on compliance with the formalities of drafting it, and sometimes we fail to consider the practical aspects involved.

A will is a legal document that contains the free and independent wishes of the testator regarding the distribution of the assets in his or her estate at the time of death.

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 for growing at home.

Selling hides can add to your overall profit margin, so it pays to protect them.

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 advised.

Animal health is a cornerstone of successful farming, and at some point all livestock farmers need to inject their animals. Here are some valuable tips.

Farmers must spell out to workers what their duties are and regularly review their performance against set goals.

Most home vegetable gardens are irrigated incorrectly. Here’s how to get it right, says Bill Kerr.

It’s important to learn as much as you can about the marketing of livestock and other agricultural commodities.

Maize following this leguminous crop usually shows no nitrogen deficiency symptoms.