Solving soil problems improves uptake
Compost can make soil healthier and more productive without costing the earth.
Inbreeding
Can cattle breeders benefit from mating related animals? Leslie Bergh provides some answers.
Don’t mix your staples
The KwaZulu-Natal Wool Growers’ Association recently expressed its concern about the number of the farmers mixing different wool lengths into bales for sale.
Protecting your plants
One of the most important functions of the food web is to suppress pests and diseases.
Cross-bred or pure-bred: designing a herd
Weigh up the advantages for your situation and decide accordingly, says Leslie Bergh. Good management is the key to successful cattle farming.
What to look for when buying breeding goats
Just like with sheep, fertile, good-quality goats are important for better production, healthy kids and good quality meat.
Labour basics
One of the many challenges you’ll face as your farming business grows is deciding how many people to employ, writes Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Choosing a breed that’s right for you
One of the first things beginner cattlemen want to know is: what’s the best beef breed to farm with? Leslie Bergh of the ARC provides a few broad guidelines.
A guide to growing carrots
A short overview on carrots for those interested in producing these nutritious vegetables.
What you need to know as a farmer
You need textbook knowledge, practical experience and creative thinking to make it as a farmer, says Susan Pletts.
12 financial management rules for dairy farmers
Consultant Allan Penderis of Tammac Consultants says that while he can’t provide specific advice because he has not personally visited Nofisa Farm, Tammac’s 12 general rules are of value to...
irrigation pipes, selecting the right ones
How do cost-conscious small-scale farmers select the right piping for their irrigation systems? Bernard Reeksting offers some tips.
Grain storage to protect against insects
If insects get into stored grain, a third of your harvest can be lost.
A balancing act with goats – 3
Goats are an easy-care option able to thrive under harsh conditions, but they need some attention, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Making a go of goats – 2
Goats can be a money-spinner, but good stockmanship is essential for success, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
The true value of goats – 1
Modern goat breeds offer many opportunities for value adding and are a reliable way of making a good profit, explains Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Protect the soil, boost profits
How the soil food web retains and cycles nutrients to maintain soil fertility.
