Buying a farm
Base the decision to buy a farm on sound business principles, not on emotion and sentiment, cautions Susan Pletts.
The importance of humus
Among many other things, this wonderful substance feeds and protects soil life.
Grasses, grazers and grazing
If you’re changing from cash crops to livestock farming, you will have to get your veld management right, cautions Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Retail emerging markets demystified
Land Bank’s REM financing package has some tough requirements, and many readers have asked for some of these to be clarified, writes Susan Pletts.
How to protect the land – 2
In our 17 August issue, we studied the value of mixed farming and biodiversity. In this instalment, the second of 12, we look at using poisons responsibly.
Keep stock thieves away
Stock theft and predation is widespread in the livestock industry and losses could be higher than we think.
Looking after the soil
Over the next few weeks we’ll look at repairing the damage done to our soils through poor farming practices.
Dipping tip
You don’t have to inspect an Angora goat’s fleece closely to detect the presence of lice – a quick glance at the horn tips of a couple of goats will show if your flock is free of lice or not.
Controlling insects with insects
Biological control is – or should be – an important way of managing crop pests for all farmers, whether emerging or commercial. Paul Donovan explains why.
Common pig diseases – 2
This week we look at lameness, salt poisoning, diarrhoea and other ailments common in small pig herds.
Harvesting correctly
Some simple steps will enable you to harvest in an efficient way and prepare well for the next crop. Snap the maize stalks down with your foot and lay them down in the rows.
Common pig diseases – 1
Pigs, like any livestock, are prone to diseases. Some of these can be serious and even fatal. Fortunately, most can be treated if caught in time.
Easy does it!
A US academic believes farming to be one of the most stressful occupations in the world. “Profits are uncertain. Producers must adapt to rapid technological advances and consumer expectations.
More money from Merinos
Good clip preparation is vital, and opens up an opportunity to add value to the product before it leaves the farm, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Managing sows
Healthy sows are important if you want to produce the maximum number of pigs and make a good profit.
Practical tips on weeding
Weeding is one of the most important aspects of farming. If you neglect to weed, your crop yields will suffer.
Dealing with Rift Valley fever
Researchers at Onderstepoort Biological Products examine the symptoms and control of RVF.
The basics of effective irrigation
Crop expert Bill Kerr gives tips on how to ‘read’ a crop and understand its irrigation requirements.
