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So-called experts often tell farmers what the problems are with their crops without being sure and just hoping for the best when suggesting solutions. Rather use your own experience to figure out the cause, says Bill Kerr.

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A high number of livestock are being stolen every year in South Africa. Insurance is expensive and farmers are battling to find solutions to the problem, says Dr Lindie von Maltitz, agricultural economics lecturer in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State.

Wendy Petersen, a trailblazer in the South African wine industry, spent nearly three decades working towards the empowerment of black women in the industry and transforming communities. She spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about her determination to make a difference and push boundaries.

Many of the larger manufacturers of livestock feed and supplements offer helpful advice booklets, which can sometimes be found at farmer supply stores and co-operatives. Take advantage of them, says Shane Brody.

Macadamia farming is a long-term investment that could keep paying off for decades to come if a solid foundation has been laid. Farmer Johan Swanepoel spoke to Lindi Botha about establishing new orchards, and the benefits to be reaped from managing soil health from the start.

Land Bank recently emerged from a four-year period of default. Themba Rikhotso, CEO of Land Bank, spoke to Glenneis Kriel at Nampo Cape about what lies ahead for the bank.

Charl Saunderson’s farming is based on four important aspects, and each team member on his farm enjoys their role in maintaining these principles.

In an increasingly digital world, data is as much an asset as physical resources are. As applications develop, the need to collect mass data to provide personalised solutions is becoming more prevalent. This leaves producers with an uneasy choice of whether or not to share data. Feroz Sheikh, chief information and digital officer at Syngenta, spoke to Lindi Botha about why farmers should share their data, and how to do so safely.

Livestock health management has evolved over the decades to include disease prevention and growing farm revenue. The most effective health management strategies are those that include dipping, deworming, and vaccinating animals. Prof Cheryl McCrindle takes a closer look at these practices.

Brian Berkman reunites with an old musician friend at this grand hotel on the foreshore and finds that the establishment’s recent refurbishment has lent it even more charm and comfort, as well as some mod cons.

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe recently announced his department’s plans to conduct the first major seismic survey in 50 years in the south-central Karoo. Prof Raymond Durrheim, Emeritus Professor in the School of Geosciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, spoke to Annelie Coleman about this announcement and the possibility of fracking in the area.