The pitfalls of gambling with vegetables on the market
The decision of what to plant should be based on average market prices in the long term, which enables vegetable growers to calculate what the market price fluctuations will be, says Bill Kerr.
Blueberry production: a steep learning curve but worth the effort
Blueberries have been identified as an ideal crop for boosting agriculture’s contribution to South Africa’s gross domestic product. Given the labour-intensive nature of this crop and its lucrative export market, investing in it was an obvious choice for Pan African Resources and Primocane Capital as a means of supporting rural communities near Barberton in Mpumalanga.
Food trends increase scope for value-adding opportunities
From veganism to upcycling, new food trends present avenues for value adding and exploring new markets. After a recent visit to Switzerland, Lindi Botha reports on two companies making headway in that country.
Fostering an inclusive, innovative workforce
South Africa’s Employment Equity and Skills Development acts lay the foundation for an inclusive workplace that is prepared for future growth, writes Anton Visser, Group COO of SA Business School.
Breeding productive, well-adapted Angoras in the Eastern Cape
Pieter Jordaan runs Angora goats and Merinos on 16 000ha near Aberdeen in the Eastern Cape. The 2024 Agri Eastern Cape Young Farmer of the Year finalist spoke to Mike Burgess about how his stud, Legacy Angora, has added value to his farming enterprise by consistently producing a quality product for the market.
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Considering a wind energy lease?
Wind energy is now recognised as an essential part of South Africa’s energy mix. This is good news for farmers and other landowners, who may generate additional income by leasing a small portion of their land for development.
Innovative programme addresses GBV in rural areas
A ground-breaking programme is addressing gender-based violence in South Africa’s rural communities and empowering young men to fight harmful stereotypes.
A family-friendly farm stay where your soul can soar
A fully operational farm, Raptor Rise Guest Farm in Tulbagh in the Western Cape offers upscale and perfectly appointed yet well-priced accommodation.
How quality and marketing drive success for small farms
It is one thing to have a good product, but we need to bring its outstanding features to the attention of the purchaser, writes Bill Kerr.
Why a dairy farm turned to producing pineapples
In 2019, dairy farmer Jonathan Willows and his business partner, Laine Collett, launched a pineapple operation on a dairy farm in the Eastern Cape. They spoke to Mike Burgess about why and how they rebooted a once-successful pineapple farm to set them up to produce 7 000t of the Cayenne variety a year.
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Five green reasons to switch to an automower
Most homeowners want a lush, well-manicured lawn. Not only does it add to the beauty and aesthetics of your overall garden, but it also creates a wonderful setting for outdoor activities with the kids or leisurely enjoying outdoor lunches with family and friends.
Be a ‘marketer’, not just a ‘seller’
Selling and marketing are entirely different jobs. The seller thinks short term, while the marketer has the long term in mind. Farmers need to think like marketers, writes Peter Hughes.