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When Parents And Children Clash
Parent and child can work together on the farm, love each other, state their needs, be heard and learn to negotiate their differences. It starts with respect and compromise, says Trevor Dickinson.
Livestock - How To Auction Your Livestock
Livestock auctions are an important marketing channel for livestock. Here is an overview of how to prepare for an auction and what to expect on the day.
Partnerships put mohair farmer on winning track
Going from a part-time communal farmer to a full-time commercial producer is easier said than done. Eastern Cape farmer Sindile Lloyd James spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how he overcame the barriers to entry through his eagerness to learn, and by using strategic partnerships with government and other farmers.
From subsistence to commercial farming
Ga-Mothapo farmer Thabana Mokgohloa grew up looking after his family’s livestock, and in 2009 took over the running of his parents’ farm. With his focus on maize and sheep, he has turned their subsistence farm into a commercial operation. Siyanda Sishuba reports
Case IH hits 1 000-tractor milestone with Maxxum
Agricultural machinery manufacturer Case IH, owned by CNH Industrial, announced recently that sales of its Maxxum tractors in Africa had crossed the 1 000-unit-sold threshold.
Cost-effective irrigation
Over-irrigating costs you money in terms of water and electricity, and may lower your crops’ potential. Under-irrigating is also detrimental. Learn to irrigate properly and at the optimal time, says Bill Kerr.
A charming countryside guest house
Ellas in Greyton offers exceptional food, lovely views and wonderful hospitality, says Brian Berkman.
Why Soils Are Dying, And How We Can Save Them
As much as 60% of South Africa’s soils are degraded, largely because of poor farming practices. This poses a direct threat to food security, says Jaco Koch, a researcher at North-West University’s School of Geo and Spatial Sciences.
Small-Scale Pig Farmers' Biosecurity Challenges
The recent outbreak of African swine fever in South African pig herds has raised concerns over the ability of small-scale pig farmers to implement biosecurity measures. Research conducted by Melissa Cupido at Stellenbosch University details farming practices in these communities and highlights shortfalls in biosecurity and nutrition.
Crispy, beer-battered fish with chips and minted mushy peas
This classic British dish is bound to delight one and all. Make sure that the chips and battered fish remain crispy, and serve them hot! Photo and chips recipe: Potato nation. Batter recipe: taste.com.au.
A sustainable lifestyle on a small, off-the-grid farm
After spending seven years in Zithulele and three in Cebe in rural Eastern Cape, Karen and Roger Galloway bought Heartwood Homestead, a small farm close to East London. Here, they practise regenerative agriculture and use their resources to benefit others through an internship programme.
A rush to victory – and the Victoria Cross
Born to an Irish father and an Afrikaans mother on the Cape Colony’s Eastern Frontier, Joseph Crowe became one of the first South African-born recipients of the Victoria Cross, earning it in India.
Improving nitrogen-use efficiency in wheat
With global fertiliser prices at a two-year high, nitrogen use came under the spotlight at the 2021 SKOG Pre-Plant Information Day. Speaking at the event, agronomist Jacques Smith highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to nitrogen fertiliser management in grain crops.
CROPS - Growing sunflowers: Part 2
Planting dates, plant density and weed control all affect yield. Follow these guidelines to ensure that you produce the best crop possible.
A reader's retreat in the semi-desert
In search of the kind of quiet that only the Klein Karoo can provide, Brian Berkman sojourned at the secluded Kleindoorn Guest House, located on a working farm near the village of Barrydale in the Western Cape.
Unlocking The Potential Of Solar Energy
With solar energy becoming increasingly affordable and reliable, more and more farmers are using it to reduce their electricity costs and dependence on Eskom power. Claude Peters of RenEnergy spoke to Glenneis Kriel about this trend.
Why Plants Need Nitrogen
This element, which is found in the chlorophyll of plants, is responsible for vegetative growth and is therefore crucial to the success of the crop.
Add Veggie Oil To Your Horse Feed
By giving your horse vegetable oil, you will improve its coat and condition, without the side effects of high sugar rations, says Dr Mac.
A New Device For Instant Leaf Analysis
A handheld, hyperspectral leaf imager will enable farmers to measure leaf moisture, chlorophyll content, nutrient level and diseases instantly.
Riding without reins
Teaching yourself to ride without reins will not only improve your balance, but will also improve the balance of your horse, says Dr Mac.
SA's silo certificate system: safe and reliable
Silo certificates form an integral part of trading for those involved in South Africa’s grain industry, according to Johan Strauss, agricultural economy lecturer at the University of the Free State. In an interview with Annelie Coleman, he said the country’s silo certificate system was dependable and highly regarded.
More awards for Valtra G Series
The Valtra G Series tractor has amassed an impressive number of accolades since it was unveiled in August 2020.
Hydrochloric acid dearth could affect citrus industry
The shortage of hydrochloric acid in South Africa could affect the citrus industry, as it is used in packhouses for cleaning.
How to make small-scale farmers more bankable
About 87% of South Africa‘s small-scale farmers have not recovered from the effects of the hard lockdown restrictions imposed last year to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
Free State farm attacks up almost 23% year-on-year
Just under 300 attacks, including 37 murders, took place on farms in the Free State between 1 April 2016 and 31 March this year.
Early planting: the key to soya bean success
Soya bean farmer Gerrie Schoeman uses careful planning to time his planting perfectly. In addition, he uses the best resources at hand, including experienced service providers and the latest technology, to optimise production for maximum yield. Lindi Botha reports.
Dehorning your beef cattle can help boost profits
Removing the horns from your cattle holds a number of advantages. Most importantly, it will prevent the problem of bruised meat.
Care and caution keep poultry disease-free
As every chicken producer can attest, keeping the birds in optimal health is a finicky task, and failure can lead to serious losses. This means that a meticulous biosecurity plan is a top priority. Lindi Botha spoke to broiler producer Ben-Chris Bronkhorst about putting the right systems in place and ensuring that they run efficiently.
A weed that's a ticking time bomb
Malva parviflora is a drought-, heat- and cold-resistant weed that is almost impossible to kill once established. If you see any, be sure to destroy them immediately, says Bill Kerr.
Why Less Is More In A Potato Enterprise
Growing and marketing potatoes for maximum profit can be complex, as there is a narrow window for obtaining the highest prices. To ensure his business gets its timing right, GoldenGrow owner Graeme Jarvie employs a ‘less is more’ approach, where the business stays well within its capabilities and so runs smoothly. Lloyd Phillips reports.