Summer is parasite time

Dangerous parasites as well as ticks, which can cause potentially fatal livestock diseases such as redwater and heartwater, thrive in rain and high temperatures, says Shane Brody.

How setting up marketing facilities and community structures can boost business

Avoid the situation where buyers are expected to struggle while processing and later loading your livestock because of poor or non-existent facilities, writes Shane Brody.

What to consider when mixing your own feed

Mixing your own feed can save you money in the short term, but can also cost you in the long term if you do not pay attention to sourcing the...

Emerging trends in cannabis genetics and strain development

The search for specific therapeutic effects is one of the most intriguing trends in cannabis genetics, writes Thomas Walker.

Get ready for the auction to achieve the best results

In this article, we look at the steps that need to be taken to prepare your animals (and yourself) for a livestock auction.

Farm accidents: be very careful

Farming is a hazardous profession, and it is important for farmers to ensure the safety of their workers.

How to cultivate your garden soil

The soil in your garden is a living organism that needs air, water and nourishment. That’s why tilling, or soil cultivation, is imperative for a healthy garden.

Why the ‘right’ breed can earn you more money

If you’re an aspiring cattle farmer wanting to gain access to the lucrative feedlot market, it’s best to start off with a proper beef breed and ensure that the cows...

Advice for cannabis entrepreneurs from experienced growers

To be a successful cannabis producer requires a disciplined, business-oriented approach. Fortunately, lessons learnt by seasoned professionals can provide guidance to prospective entrepreneurs, says Thomas Walker.

How to get better prices for seedy mohair

While seedy mohair inevitably fetches less on the market, there are ways of increasing the price. Broker Pierre van der Vyver of The House of Fibre explained these to Roelof...

Lice in livestock: the signs and the treatment

Lice infestation can be a serious problem for livestock owners, as it reduces the value of wool, mohair, and even meat. It is also highly distressing for animals. Dipping is...

Engaging the founder and family in the succession process

Are you a consultant or other outsider trying to help a farmer hand over to the next generation? If so, you’re probably meeting with resistance! Trevor Dickinson suggests ways in...

Tips to take care of your farm dog

Arslan Hassan looks at how farmers can provide their farm dogs with the basic necessities, as well as some added extras that will help you raise and keep a happy...

Insights and bidding tips from top auctioneers

In this article, we speak to auctioneers about the importance of auctions for the livestock and property markets. The experts also provide some bidding tips for those who are new...

Auction catalogue as a guideline for selection

Frans Jordaan, Prof Michiel Scholtz and Dr Ben Greyling from Agricultural Research Council-Animal Production and Martin Ras from the Afric Afrikaners Stud compiled these useful recommendations to assist cattle breeders...

Guideline to the most popular cannabis extraction methods

The effective extraction of cannabinoids, terpenes and other components is crucial in the production of cannabis products. Thomas Walker discusses various extraction techniques, and how they affect the end product.

Eco-friendly predator management

Safe lambs are only a stone’s throw away, writes Roelof Bezuidenhout, recommending a stone barrier to keep predators away from flocks.

How to store seed properly for maximum yield

Peter Craven, seed supply and quality lead at Syngenta, and Kobus van Huyssteen, technical manager at the South African National Seed Organisation, spoke to Magda du Toit about the importance...

Diagnosis and treatment of the main livestock diseases

While there are numerous illnesses that can affect livestock and animals such as chickens and pigs, in this article, Shane Brody concentrates on sheep, cattle and goats.

Nematode management starts with knowledge

Some species of nematodes, or roundworms, can become a serious problem, says Dr Driekie Fourie, technical product lead for Syngenta Seedcare in Africa and the Middle East.

Farming Basics