Farming Basics

Master farming basics with practical tips on crop growth, livestock care, irrigation, soil management, and effective farm operations.

Can a bequest of agricultural land to more than one beneficiary be regarded as valid?

Subdivision of Agricultural Land Act 70 of 1970

In South Africa, a testator or testatrix has the freedom to leave their assets to whoever they please. But certain statutory limitations affect the freedom of testation. One is the...
Vaccinate your animals;it’ll pay you in the long run

Vaccinate your animals: it’ll pay you in the long run

Administering a vaccine to your animals will cost you money. But not vaccinating them will cost you much more.
Cattle at a feedlot

Growing out and fattening cattle in a feedlot

Most cattle sold through abattoirs are feedlotted. This article looks at the basics of feedlotting and how an operator can increase profit margins.
What butchers and abattoirs look for

What butchers and abattoirs look for

To increase your profit, you need to know the age and body condition of your animals and what prices to expect from the markets. Remember, a heavier carcass may not...
Maize cultural practices

Maize cultural practices

Soil tillage, particularly primary tillage, is the foundation of every crop production system and the main cost factor in maize production.
Bonsmara Bull

Learn about beef BLUP basics

Producers use breeding values to determine the long-term value of certain animals to their herds.
Enjoy the taste of fresh garden peas!

Enjoy the taste of fresh garden peas!

These days, most people opt for frozen peas for convenience. They don’t know what they’re missing, says Bill Kerr. Fresh peas are far tastier and sweeter.
Some bacterial and parasitical pig diseases

Some bacterial and parasitical pig diseases to look out for

An overview of eperythrozoonosis, Clostridium perfringens Type C, ascariosis and Glasser’s disease.
How recording ewes reproduction boosts fertility

How recording ewes reproduction boosts fertility

Recording the reproduction of your ewe flocks during each breeding season will help you identify potential fertility problems.
The basics of groundwater recharge

The basics of groundwater recharge

Recharge may be impeded by farming activities, leading to loss of topsoil and reduced water infiltration.
The basics of maize

The basics of maize production

Also known as corn, maize was first domesticated in southern Mexico nearly 10 000 years ago. Many varieties have been bred to suit a range of conditions.
Ever considered sorghum?

Ever considered sorghum?

Grain sorghum is not just for making soft porridge; it has many other uses. Climate change has sparked renewed interest in the crop in South Africa, says Prof John Taylor...
ADVERTISEMENT

MUST READS

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT