Farming Basics

Before planting, it is essential to consider the market, as well as climatic and overall farming conditions. South Africa has over 80 potato cultivars available, although commercial producers primary focus on fewer than 20.

The challenges facing small-scale farmers during winter are significant, and there seems to be very little government support for these farmers. Cattle farming plays an important role in South Africa’s agricultural economy and even more so in the emerging and small-scale farmer sector, which accounts for 5,7 million head of cattle.

Potatoes are a high value crop that requires a well-thought-out production strategy. With high demands for moisture, fertiliser and crop protection, farmers considering this crop need to pay attention to the basics to reap the rewards.

For seed to germinate and plants to grow, soil often needs to be prepared. The manner in which it is done depends on the type of soil, the organic matter and moisture it contains, the crop to be planted, as well as the previous crop that was planted in the field. Magda du Toit spoke to cereal experts and farmers for guidance.

Louis Steyl, CEO of Bonsmara SA, offers some advice to prospective farmers about how to go about setting up a cattle farm for future success, and stresses the importance of establishing a solid foundation.

Whether you’re growing winter crops or raising livestock, healthy soil is the foundation of sustainable agriculture. Sheila Storey, co-founder and consultant at the Soil Health Support Centre, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how farmers can evaluate and improve their soil health.

Competing with ‘the big guys’ as a small-scale broiler farmer is possible if you keep the importance of fiscal discipline, cash flow, infrastructure, and biosecurity – among other factors – in mind, writes Shane Brody.

On Workers' Day, 1 May 2025, Linda Piegl takes a look at how farmers and farmworkers can protect themselves while working in one of the most hazardous industries in the world.

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.