Goat farming: nutrition and veld management

Feed and grazing management can make all the difference to a goat farm’s profitability, says Johan Steyn.

Understanding maize production – Part 1

This staple, South Africa’s most important grain crop, is produced throughout the country.

Indigenous sheep and goat breeds list

Some South African sheep and goat breeds enjoy commercial status, while others are vulnerable and even endangered, says Leon Kruger of the ARC-Animal Production Institute.

Dealing with sooty mould

This mould is a result of a by-product, honeydew, that comes from aphids, leafhoppers, mealybugs, scale insects and psyllids.

How to grow parsley

This crop is usually grown by small producers for the winter soup season, says Bill Kerr.

Growing parsnips

Many farmers have tried growing this crop but have given up due to germination problems. Fortunately, these can be overcome, says Bill Kerr.

Earthworms: the farmer’s best friend

Earthworms have been around for approximately 120 million years, and it’s fair to say that without them, the soil we farm would be a very different entity, says Paul Donovan.

Goat production: Weaning kids

It’s important to wean kids so ewes can regain the condition they lost during pregnancy and be ready to breed again.

Consider climatic factors when purchasing land

When purchasing land for farming purposes, climatic factors such as hail and wind must be considered.

Farming with Angora goats

The upswing in the Mohair market has again got many farmers interested in Angora goats. But they should do their homework before venturing into this branch of smallstock farming, warns...

Growing leeks

Rather than forming a tight bulb like the onion, the leek produces a long cylinder of bundled leaf sheaths. Bill Kerr takes us through the basics of growing this vegetable.

Rodent control

Rodents can cut into your profits – and spread disease. Paul Donovan discusses ways of preventing this from happening.

Assassin bugs

Spiders are regarded as apex predators in biopest control, but assassin bugs are jostling for an equal share of recognition, says Paul Donovan.

Putting your farm up for sale

Deciding to sell the ol’ homestead is a tough call, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.

Brucellosis biosecurity

This highly contagious zoonotic disease of cattle continues to be of great concern, says Dr Sewellyn Davey, State Veterinarian, Western Cape.

Buying agricultural land – know your market

Buying a farm in South Africa calls for careful consideration and in-depth investigation. The purchase of high-potential agricultural land is a costly affair which should be approached with sound knowledge...