CATEGORIES

Choosing hydroponics or aquaponics

While similar in theory, hydroponic and aquaponic systems differ significantly in terms of capital outlay, input costs and method of operation. Janine Ryan provides an overview of the differences between these systems to help aspiring growers choose the right one in terms of their production goals.

The dawn of a new era for Orange River Cellars

Orange River Cellars, located in Upington in the Northern Cape, is in the process of converting from a co-operative to a company. CEO Charl du Plessis spoke to Glenneis Kriel about this development.

Dumping, feed costs, load-shedding threaten SA poultry industry

South Africa's poultry industry is well positioned for long-term growth, but it is currently in distress due to a raft of local and global challenges. Glenneis Kriel describes the impact of these threats on producers.

Showring skills that can be used in cattle farming

Ranch sorting and team penning are two Western show disciplines that can also be used to rapidly sort rangeland cattle, writes Dr Mac.

How to feed 25 million more people in Niger

Kayenat Kabir, research and teaching associate at Purdue University in Indiana, US, writes that three key interventions are needed to help Niger feed its fast-growing and desperately poor population.

A nationalist on the wrong side of history

JBM Hertzog's Afrikaner nationalism and economic policies gained him many allies amongst his people, but his lifelong antipathy towards Britain and sympathy for Germany were ultimately his demise, says Graham Jooste.

New Isuzu engine slashes fuel costs

Isuzu's 1.9 Ddi D-MAX range is clearly aimed at lowering drivers' fuel costs, and it does so while delivering solid performance and reliability.

Managing a Swiss chard crop for a high, ongoing yield

This leafy vegetable is a voracious feeder that requires plenty of nitrogen, and must be protected from frost and eelworm, says Bill Kerr.

Growing cowpeas: Part 3

Cowpeas are grown for their seed and leaves, and both are targeted by insect pests and disease. Farmers need to scout for these threats and manage the problem in good time in order to ensure a healthy crop.

Producing olives and dates in Tunisia

Despite Tunisia's variable climate, the agriculture sector there remains vital to the country's economy. Tunisia is also a leading producer of dates and olive oil. Janine Ryan reports.

Birds, bees and blissful days in the tranquil Vredefort Dome

The Shallow Pig, a family cottage nestling in the Vredefort Dome, offers the perfect place to unwind, says Riaan Hattingh. And if you want a diversion, the nearby town of Parys offers good food and fun activities.

Making the case for robotic cotton pickers

Despite the fact that robotic machinery is currently being used in many other industries, robotic cotton pickers remain an unexplored technology that could substantially improve cotton yields and profit, says Janine Ryan.

Pooling resources leads to progress

Inga Qeja is the owner of Bhayi Holdings, a business that grows vegetables near Tsolo in the Eastern Cape, and hopes to expand to include other crops and livestock. He spoke to Siyanda Sishuba about how a lack of access to finance is a major factor thwarting the growth of emerging farmers.

The Afrikaner: equipped to beat climate change

The Afrikaner beef cattle breed's outstanding plasticity enables it to perform optimally despite the negative consequences of climate change. Georgette Pyoos, a junior researcher in the Animal Breeding and Genetics Department at the Agricultural Research Council, spoke to Annelie Coleman about plasticity and its value.

Highveld farming: the more sheep, the merrier

The Mpumalanga Highveld was once the wool capital of South Africa, but rampant stock theft over the years has largely decimated the industry here. However, while some farmers are moving away from sheep farming, Johan Steyn has plans to expand his flock. He spoke to Lindi Botha about his success with Merinos.

Practical ways to fight the scourge of livestock theft

Livestock theft syndicates have become a growing problem and are a major threat to the livelihoods of farmers. Prevention starts with registered brands and tattoos, says Shane Brody.

Go with the flow and don't lose your balance

Money records are either balances’ or flows’. Get to understand the difference between these two concepts and you'll be well on your way to becoming financially literate, says Peter Hughes.

VEGETABLES Cultivating cowpeas: Part 2

This annual herbaceous legume thrives in dry conditions and is an important crop in arid, semi-desert regions where few other crops will grow. Cowpeas are used for human and livestock consumption.

Ban boosts business for big potato producer

South African-born farmer Johan van Vuuren, together with his brother Fred Sr and nephew, Fred Jr, run one of Botswana’s largest potato production enterprises on their farm in Pandamatenga in the north of the country. Van Vuuren spoke to Tshiamo Tabane about their journey to success, and how the government's recently announced ban on vegetable imports has benefitted them.

How machinery is driving agriculture forwards in Africa

Jaco Beyers, managing director of Africa Middle East at John Deere, speaks to Janine Ryan about the trends in machinery and agriculture in Africa.

From accountant to grain farmer in Botswana

Basadi Molelekeng is among the youngest black women farmers in Botswana to have succeeded as a dryland commercial producer. She explains how she ditched her office job for agriculture in northern Botswana, and how she juggled these demands with those of a young mother. Tshiamo Tabane reports.

The Afrikaner: 'new' hero breed in Namibia

The demand for Afrikaner cattle in Namibia has recently increased to such an extent that demand for this hardy, adaptable local breed far exceeds supply. Annelie Coleman spoke to Afrikaner breeders in that country to discover the reasons behind this spike in popularity.

Botswana's leading commercial fish producer forges ahead

Mari van Graan and her husband, Pieter, operate a commercial fish farming project in Kasane in northern Botswana, one of very few commercial aquaculture projects in the country. Tshiamo Tabane reports on how the Van Graans built up their company, Golden Wrap, which also produces fruit, maize and vegetables.

The farmers helping Botswana boost its food production

Willy Kathurima and his wife Doreen are among a handful of farmers taking advantage of Botswana’s push to expand food production by increasing local expertise in horticulture. Tshiamo Tabane reports on how the couple launched their business, Ramaphatle Greens, which produces strawberries, garlic and ginger.

Celebrating Fendt's 20 000th tractor

Germany's biggest producer of agricultural machinery manufactured 20 000 tractors in 2022. We look at the 20 000th built, the 724 Vario.

Swiss chard: seeds or seedlings?

Farmers can plant Swiss chard in one of two ways: direct seeding or seedling transplants. Bill Kerr explains the pros and cons of each approach, and advises how to get the plants off to a good start.

ANIMAL HEALTH: Dealing with bluetongue

Endemic to South Africa, the bluetongue virus now occurs worldwide and is on the increase. The disease, which is spread by midges, affects ruminants, mainly sheep, explains Roelof Bezuidenhout.

SA olive farming: an industry ripe for the taking

The production and consumption of olives and olive oil are on the rise in South Africa. Magda du Toit spoke to farmers and other experts about the country’s burgeoning olive industry, and what is required to produce this Mediterranean fruit.

Boran: converting low-quality feed into high-quality protein

As a diversified farmer whose primary focus is grain, Leon van Tonder doesn't have much time to worry about his cattle. He spoke to Lindi Botha about why introducing Boran cattle into his herd was the best decision he has ever made, and how this beef breed complements his crop-production division.

Better, faster hay balers and forage equipment

Rovic Leers recently showcased some of Krone’s latest baling and forage harvesting equipment at Boland Agricultural High School. Glenneis Kriel reports on its improved features and performance.