Farming Basics

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

Fixing the veld

Which grazing system is the best? It’s a question that evokes much debate, but the answer is really quite simple, suggests Roelof Bezuidenhout.

About pyrethrum

This is a handy biodegradable organic insecticide you can make yourself, says Paul Donovan.

Taking the eina out of EIAs

In addition to proper plans, building may require an environmental impact assessment, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Beetroot for beginners: pests and diseases

Beetroot for beginners: pests and diseases

Vegetable expert Bill Kerr explains how to deal with pests and diseases, and discusses two popular beetroot cultivars.

Yes, you do need building plans

Building is expensive, so it pays to spend a bit more to get proper plans approved.

Signs of plant toxicity

In South Africa, there are many toxic plants that can be fatal to livestock, or make them extremely ill.

Beetroot for beginners – Part 2

Vegetable expert Bill Kerr takes us through the steps of planting a beetroot crop.

When the veld turns toxic

Toxic plants can cause disease and death in livestock, and must be vigorously controlled.

Beetroot for beginners (1)

This crop is ideal for small-scale farmers, says veggie expert Bill Kerr.

Getting your crop into the ground

A brief guide to sowing seed and planting seedlings in the correct way.

Crop rotation basics explained

It is not good practice to plant the same crop on the same land year after year. Don’t plant any crop on a land more often than once every three...
Hand-milking-how-to-keep-it-hygienic

Hand milking: how to keep it hygienic

Hand milking can be as hygienic as milking machines, and is more gentle to the udder. But precautions must be taken.
Constructing a borehole, a step-by-step guide

Constructing a borehole, a step-by-step guide

A borehole is an expensive investment. Good construction is therefore crucial. Here are some helpful tips from earth science and groundwater consultants, Umvoto Africa.

Animal health: about theileriosis

Corridor disease and turning sickness are the two most common forms of theileriosis found in South Africa.

Imbricate cactus: the devil to destroy

Controlling this cactus can be hard work, cautions Roelof Bezuidenhout.

Know your crop pests: Citrus swallowtail

This is a large butterfly with a wingspan of 8cm (females are slightly bigger than males).

Getting started with potatoes – Part 3

Bill Kerr takes us through ridging and harvesting.

Getting started with potatoes – Part 2

Bill Kerr discusses fertilisation and pest control.

About anthrax

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

Getting started with potatoes -Part 1

Small farmers in rural areas can make a profit selling potatoes directly to the community, says Bill Kerr.
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