Farming Basics

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

Breeding season for goats

A well-planned breeding season can increase profit, says Johan Steyn of Boer Goats SA.

How to grow celery

This is not the easiest crop to grow as it does not like extremes in climate, cautions Bill Kerr.

Development and price of a farm

The level of a farm’s development will have a significant influence on its open market value.

Dealing with anthrax

This is a highly contagious disease of domestic and wild animals that can affect humans.

Different aspects of a maize plant

We take a look at the roots, leaves and other aspects of maize.

A guide on how to grow beetroots

Beetroot is one of the most popular vegetables for a garden since it's quite easy to grow.
indigenous-veld-goats

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

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: 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 Roelof Bezuidenhout.

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

Putting your farm up for sale

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