Farming Basics

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

crop-pest-milkweed-bug

Biological pest control basics

The wide variety of natural products now available is enough to confuse any farmer. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.
dealing-with-kweek

Dealing with kweek

To control this hardy grass species successfully, you have to stay vigilant, stresses Bill Kerr.
pig housing

Basic infrastructure for small-scale pig farming

The size of your pig housing infrastructure will depend on the number of pigs you have. Ideally, it should be strong, simple and adaptable, and it need not be expensive,...
farm-worker-houses-western-cape-south-africa

Understanding the Labour Tenants Act and its purpose

Labour tenancy applications are an important aspect of land reform in South Africa, and it is essential that landowners understand their rights and commitments in this regard. Rob McCarthy of...
dosing lambs

Follow these guidelines when dosing lambs

Every sheep farmer strives to get his or her sheep onto the market sooner and earn more money. Jannie Fourie of the National Wool Growers’ Association gives useful guidelines to...

Do’s and don’ts of FAMACHA scoring

To implement this system properly, you will need to obtain practical hands-on instruction in its use.

Get rid of Malva – entirely!

It is crucial to destroy every single example of this dangerous weed, stresses Bill Kerr. Leaving out plants can be a very costly error.
scrotum-of-a-bull

Checking a bull’s scrotal circumference

The scrotum plays an important role in the fertility of a bull and its daughters – and should be examined closely when selecting bulls.

Cost comparisons of various heating systems

There are many aspects to consider before deciding to invest in a particular water heating system.

Growing a valuable pecan nut orchard

South Africa is well-suited for pecan nut production, but certain factors will determine the value of your orchard.

Dealing with bacterial & fungal diseases in tomatoes

Black stem, early blight and powdery mildew are all significant threats to a tomato crop.
cotton-bollworm-Helicoverpa-armigera

Common tomato pests to watch out for

The tomato is a versatile and popular crop that is relatively easy to grow. But it’s targeted by a number of pests.
ADVERTISEMENT

MUST READS

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT