CATEGORIES

Retrenchments - what employers need to know

The retrenchment process is clearly set out in the Labour Relations Act and must be followed to ensure that it is substantively and procedurally fair

Death is unpredictable, so we need to prepare our successors

We don’t like thinking or even talking about death, but it’s essential that we prepare our family and business successors for the event. Have you done so?

Insurance is not a nice to have, but a necessity

Silo operators may be feeling the pinch of increases in insurance premiums, but it is vital to be covered

Plan for these trends over the coming months

High interest rates, load-shedding, the impact of El Niño on rainfall and export challenges are some of the biggest agricultural risks flagged in the 2023 Absa AgriTrends Spring Edition.

KZN Kwanalu Young Farmer announced

KwaZulu-Natal farmer Heiko Gevers’s organised, systematic and detail-oriented approach to farming has bagged him the 2023 KZN Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year title.

Estcourt Farmers' Day unlocks opportunities

“When the quality is right and safe, the product will sell itself.” This was the message of the day during an inaugural Farmers’ Day hosted by Boxer Superstores in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs at Emtshezi in Estcourt on September 15.

USDA calls for equitable distribution of education grants

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of Education have found that more than US$12 billion (about R227 billion) had been unfairly distributed between land-grant historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and nonHBCUs over 30 years.

SA producers boosted by high olive oil prices

Skyrocketing global olive oil prices have been a boon for the local industry, creating optimism for the future.

Primestars celebrates nine years of youth entrepreneurship

This year the national entrepreneurship programme is geared towards harnessing the green economy to upskill young people and help them become business owners and job creators

Was the BRICS summit a success for South African agriculture?

As readers will know, South Africa hosted the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg in August.

Emerging trends in genetics and strain development

The search for specific therapeutic effects is one of the most intriguing trends in cannabis genetics, writes Thomas Walker.

Grain sector needs to don thinking hats to address traceability challenges

The Agbiz symposium focused on traceability and regulatory aspects of grain storage, says Magda du Toit.

Tractors to boost agricultural production

The donation of new tractors is a big boost for a farming community in the OR Tambo District, writes Jyothi Laldas.

Exclusive Cape Town hotel delivers innovative decor and the perfect stay

Brian Berkman says that revenge travel (that is, making up for opportunities to travel lost to the pandemic), casual staff dress, acclaimed art and a reservations-with-deposit entry policy all make The Silo Hotel what it is.

A reformer, magnate and stud owner

Lionel Phillips came to South Africa with nothing during the gold rush on the Reef, and became a Randlord and philanthropist, writes Graham Jooste.

What makes donkeys different?

These small, long-eared equines are hardy and useful in rural areas, and evolved from the desert donkeys of the Sahara, writes Dr Mac.

Isuzu mu-X model set to continue soaring

The local arm of Isuzu has seen a significant increase in sales with its current mu-X model over the first generation. This uptrend looks set to continue with the introduction of this value-based model. Damian Adams of CAR magazine attended the local launch in Cape Town to determine if the SUV could usurp the entry-level Fortuner.

Eco-friendly predator management

Safe lambs are only a stone's throw away, writes Roelof Bezuidenhout, recommending a stone barrier to keep predators away from flocks.

Diagnosing mineral deficiencies in cabbages: Part 1

Many farmers have great difficulty identifying mineral deficiencies in their cabbages, writes Bill Kerr.

Understanding the potential of prefabricated homes

Prefab homes are a cost-efficient and speedy way to erect housing on your farm. Janine Ryan looks at the different types of prefab homes that are available.

Providing on-farm housing for your workers

Many farmers provide their farm-workers with on-farm housing, for a range of reasons that benefit both farmer and farm-worker. However, regulations must be kept in mind to ensure the safety and welfare of labourers, says Janine Ryan.

Attract more pollinators to your farm

The presence of pollinators is essential for optimal crop production. Janine Ryan looks at ways in which farmers can attract more pollinators to their farms.

The psychology of sales

At the recent Wagyu SA Conference 2023, held at Allee Bleue Wine Estate near Franschhoek in the Western Cape, Johan Strydom, the founder of Prime Wagyu, spoke about the way in which the psyche of different types of consumers affects their purchasing behaviour.

Tips to take care of your farm dog

Arslan Hassan looks at how farmers can provide their farm dogs with the basic necessities, as well as some added extras that will help you raise and keep a happy and healthy canine.

Guardian dogs to the rescue!

Christopher Johnson, a professor of wildlife conservation at the University of Tasmania in Australia, and Linda van Bommel, an ecologist at the University of Tasmania, write about the importance of guardian dogs to protect farmers' herds and flocks against predators.

Avocado and lettuce salad with avocado and cashew nut cream dressing

This avocado and iceberg salad is a perfect accompaniment to a hot summer’s day, and can be served as a light lunch or as a side. Photo and recipe: South African Avocado Growers’ Association.

Ford Everest takes adventure seekers far into the wild

For adventurers who need to tow, the Ford Everest’s rugged capability, innovative technologies and smart safety features make hitching and hauling a trailer or caravan easier, safer and more convenient than ever.

More about diagnosing mineral deficiencies in cabbages

Be careful of relying solely on a leaf analysis to determine mineral deficiencies in vegetables

Beware of these avocado diseases

Stem canker, Phytophthora root rot and anthracnose are among the main diseases likely to affect your avocado trees.

The importance of a business plan

A business plan is critical if you need investors or financing. In this article, Janine Ryan looks at the basics of developing a sound and attractive business plan for your farming operation.