Starting and growing a successful farming business requires determination, capital, a market, and much more. And among these elements, one, in particular, stands out: partnerships. This is one of the key lessons that Yolandi Leen learnt when she and her husband, Kobus, launched their nursery, Kobus se Kwekery, in Oudtshoorn in the Klein Karoo in 2014.
Arguably their biggest break came when Patrick Murray, the owner of Langkloof Seedlings, decided to help them realise their dream of establishing their own nursery.
“Kobus and I come from a family of farmworkers near Herold [in the George district], and we gained experience while working at Patrick’s nursery for more than 24 years. In 2014, Patrick went into a 50:50 business partnership with us and helped us secure a lease for land belonging to the Oudtshoorn Municipality. We also obtained funding from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture to get the nursery going.” In addition, the department provided the couple with nursery infrastructure, along with seed trays, wooden supports for the trays, irrigation, a packhouse, and implements such as a planter.
To ensure the nursery got off to a good start, Murray was initially actively involved in the running of the business. Gradually, however, he decreased his involvement and shareholding to allow the Leens to take full ownership in 2019.
“Patrick was a great asset, but our agreement was that he’d withdraw after five years. Despite his mentoring to prepare us for the transition, it was still a huge shock when he left,” says Leen.
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة Farmer's Weekly 26 August 2022 من Farmer's Weekly.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة Farmer's Weekly 26 August 2022 من Farmer's Weekly.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 9,000 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
The genetically unique Senepol: ideal for beef production in Southern Africa
Since its arrival in South Africa in 2001, the Senepol has become a strong contender in the country's beef cattle arena. Tiekie Muller, owner of the Nooitgedacht Senepol stud, spoke to Annelie Coleman about how the growing number of Senepol stud breeders underpins the value of the breed under exacting African conditions.
Microwave mango and granadilla cheesecake
This delicious mango fridge tart is so easy to make, perfect when you want a quick yet indulgent dessert (it only takes 25 minutes to whip up). The fruit’s gorgeous colour and fragrance are maximised.
Global outlook for wheat in 2024/25
In its latest estimate, the International Grains Council has adjusted global wheat production for the coming season due to poorer-than-expected harvests in the EU. However, global supplies remain strong, while global consumption is expected to increase to reach about 804 million tons. Janine Ryan reports.
From fallow land to award-winning wines: the Newstead story
Newstead Lund Family Vineyards, a relatively new wine estate, has established itself as one of the best producers of sparkling wine in South Africa. Owners Doug and Sue Lund spoke to Glenneis Kriel about their production philosophy, rise to success, and possible expansion plans.
Fact file of fungal diseases in wheat
Wheat is a significant crop, and like other crops, is susceptible to a range of infections. Here, we provide information on the most important fungal diseases that affect wheat.
Soil preparation for wheat and other cereals
For seed to germinate and plants to grow, soil often needs to be prepared. The manner in which it is done depends on the type of soil, the organic matter and moisture it contains, the crop to be planted, as well as the previous crop that was planted in the field. Magda du Toit spoke to cereal experts and farmers for guidance.
The origin of the Bonsmara
The Breed of the Month for March is the Bonsmara. In this first article, we take a look at the man behind this popular cattle breed, as well as how it was developed.
The Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel is once again a destination of choice
While some of its contemporaries have suffered from inner-city neglect, the Southern Sun Cape Sun hotel has bounced back in elegance and style, writes Brian Berkman.
Age catches up with the Nissan Navara
The Navara line-up was increased last year in Nissan's effort to win back market share. The Citizen's Mark Jones sampled the top-of-the-range Pro-4X to see how the double cab compares with modern bakkies.
Growing onion sets
Bill Kerr discusses what onion sets are, and how and when to produce them to obtain the maximum financial benefit.
