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If hard times are forcing you to think of switching to a different crop, Porter’s Five Forces can help show you the way forward.

With the call to increase job opportunities in agriculture, many farmers have been left scratching their heads over the economic implications. But the Schroeders of Mpumalanga have found a winning recipe in coffee production: its high labour component and profitability levels make the crop viable. Lindi Botha visited the mother-and-son team on their farm near Hazyview.

Curb bits are used in Western and English riding disciplines, but the action of the curb bit is very different to the action of the commonly used snaffle, says Dr Mac.

Lerato Baloyi is currently the only female agricultural equipment technician employed by John Deere Sub-Saharan Africa. Siyanda Sishuba spoke to the 29-year-old Baloyi about her often-challenging journey in this male-dominated industry, and her passion for her career.

Investing in efficient systems that optimise the use of space and yield, while reducing cost, is one way in which Gauteng-based Ichthys Aquaponics is growing its business. Siyanda Sishuba visited the operation and spoke to owners Justin and Nikki Hess to find out more.

It’s high-time to bring some perspective to the debate about the merits of ‘grass-fed’ beef (extensive production) versus ‘grain-fed’ beef (intensive).

The combine harvester is a very old invention, first appearing over 180 years ago. Yet more than a century passed before the unwieldy early machines gave way to the self-propelled combines we know today. In this article, we explore the history of one of farming’s greatest labour savers.

Ngunis have excellent breeding potential, renowned resistance to tick-borne livestock diseases, and outstanding maternal ability. But feedlots often offer unattractive prices for them. Crossbreeding may solve the problem.

To stay profitable in an increasingly tough environment, farmers must use their land and other resources to their maximum potential. The amazingly detailed imagery captured by unmanned aerial vehicles can help achieve this. Lloyd Phillips visited Agri-Sense International to find out more.

Thousands of lambs and calves have died in South Africa and Botswana in recent years due to a virulent, fast-spreading Cryptosporidium and Escherichia coli disease complex. Veterinarian Dr Liezel Wasserman, who has been investigating the problem, spoke to Sabrina Dean.

Sweet peppers need adequate levels of potassium and nitrogen. Before planting, you should therefore have a soil analysis done and apply potassium accordingly.

Aflatoxins can cause severe liver damage and may result in death, says Dr Mac. As such, proper feed storage is crucial.