Farming Basics

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

About provisional tax

Most farmers as provisional taxpayers, so it’s important to understand the concept, says Susan Pletts.

Know your cattle: Simmentaler

The Simmentaler breed comes from the Simme valley in Switzerland, where it gained a reputation as an excellent cross-breeder due to increased hybrid vigour.

Maintaining high standards

If you become careless and lazy in small things, your yield and profit can decline.
milking techniques

Milking techniques: the best habits

The correct milking method will keep the cow's udder healthy and improve yield.

How to do a soil test

Before you plant any type of crop, make sure you understand the soil. Here's a simple soil test to try out.
healthy udders

Healthy udders mean more milk

A farmer has to treat skin problems in cattle such as frostbite, warts and blue udder disease before they lead to a lower milk yield.

Why time is money

Planting your crops at the right time for your region is extremely important. If you fail to make the deadline, your yield will suffer greatly.

Dealing with Mastitis

This is a potentially fatal disease, and needs prompt and careful attention.

The amazing cactus pear

Tough, nutritious and requiring little care, this remarkable plant is invaluable for farmers, writes Roelof Bezuidenhout.

At last! A way to get funding.

Serious about farming? The new Land Bank loan might be for you. It has tough requirements, but offers real advantages, including recognising the Permission to Occupy (PTO), writes Susan Pletts.

Why crop rotation is important

The idea of crop rotation – growing different crops on the same land each year – can be difficult to understand. After all, if...
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