Farming Basics

A business plan is critical if you need investors or financing. In this article, Janine Ryan looks at the basics of developing a sound and attractive business plan for your farming operation.

Knowing the efficacy, classification, dosage rates, active ingredients and withdrawal periods will help to better protect your valuable livestock, says Shane Brody.

In this article, Zunel van Eeden, a master’s student at North-West University, explains why integrated pest management provides short as well as long-term, sustainable benefits.

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.

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.

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 optimal ingredients. Janine Ryan reports.

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

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

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

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.

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 are serviced by good-quality bulls, says Shane Brody.

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.

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 Bezuidenhout.

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 the most effective control, says Shane Brody.

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 which to bring about change.

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 and healthy canine.

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 to the game.

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 in making the most of the information contained in the catalogue when they attend auctions.

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.

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