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Soil health: a multi-perspective conundrum
Soil health refers to the ongoing ability of soil to function as a crucial living ecosystem that supports the existence of plants, animals and humans.
How to manage a company – and how not to
The governance and management crisis in our state-owned enterprises will eventually lead to their collapse, says Peter Hughes. But people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. How is your organisation doing?
Leadership and vision ensure success for community company
Since 2000, the government has invested more than R74 million in the Blocuso community in the Northern Cape. Dirk Claassen, financial manager of the Blocuso company, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how the community has managed these funds to establish and run a thriving wine grape and raisin farm.
Sourveld and rocks no obstacles to this Simbra producer
Rocco Botha runs a commercial herd of Simbra cattle on North West’s Klipveld, an aptly named area noted for its rocks and sourveld. Annelie Coleman spoke to him about his veld and animal management.
Two important poultry diseases you need to know about
Dr Lia Rotherham, a senior researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, explains the differences between two highly contagious poultry diseases: Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza.
Livestock adaptability: what it is, and why it matters to a buyer
It’s always best to buy sheep, goats or cattle that come from a similar environment to that of your own farm. If they are used to very different conditions, they could struggle and may even die, says Shane Brody.
Benefit from agrochemicals, but avoid the hazards!
Agrochemicals are often used as a scapegoat for agriculture’s impact on the environment, yet these chemicals do not by definition harm the environment, and they play an important part in food production, according to Dr Gerhard Verdoorn of CropLife South Africa.
Local project sheds new light on the restoration of subtropical thicket
It takes more than just planting some seeds in the veld to restore subtropical thicket that has been degraded by erosion, overgrazing and bush clearing. Marion Whitehead reports on a project designed by the Rhodes Restoration Research Group that has yielded valuable new insights into the process.
Hyundai Venue Cargo impresses with space and features
Hyundai’s Venue Cargo features a secure cargo hold, has a payload of 500kg, and promises to be a popular small commercial vehicle.
Hats off to women in agriculture!
In this segment, we speak to women in various industries of the agriculture sector about the challenges they face, and what they look forward to for the future of their businesses.
Advice from a successful organic raisin producer
Gawie Steyn, an organic raisin producer of the Orange River Valley, has proved that organic production can be commercially viable. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his production practices.
Marginal soils: What to look out for, and how to optimise yield
To make the best of their land and remain financially viable, farmers need to know the potential of their soil. Karabo Puswe, agricultural specialist at FarmSol, explains how this knowledge is gained.
