CATEGORIES

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.

Phalaenopsis orchids: tips to help them survive and thrive

Orchid expert Jacques Botha spoke to Linda Piegl about how to nurture the Phalaenopsis orchid, which requires precise watering and needs to be kept in a temperature-controlled environment.

Milking, the hi-tech way

This leading dairy farmer installed the largest rotary milking unit in the Southern Hemisphere.

Onion sowing choices

Your particular growing conditions will dictate whether you should use seedbeds, direct seeding, or plugs for sowing onions

Golden cattle for the bushveld

This article showed that a carefully selected new crossbreed offered sound advantages for extensive ranching in harsh areas.

The ins and outs of alpaca farming

The South African alpaca industry is on the rise, says Alison Notley, president of the South African Alpaca Breeders’ Society and owner of Helderstroom Alpacas near Villiersdorp. She spoke to Sinenhlanhla Mncwango about the origin of this gentle camelid and how its fleece is being processed into quality products.

Cheese and Rosemary Scones

Easy-to-make savoury treats that are great for lunch boxes.

Cape Town on a budget: a smart stay at the Holiday Inn Express

What's the best way to enjoy Cape Town's top food and nightlife without having to splurge on a five-star hotel? Brian Berkman has some good suggestions.

Managing grazing and hay production in Eragrostis fields

Summer is almost gone, so it’s time to start thinking about your pastures and hay for winter

Protecting the king of the hornbills

It is estimated that the southern ground hornbill’s original range in South Africa has decreased by two-thirds over the past century. Mike Burgess looks at the threats facing this iconic hornbill species and what is being done to halt its decline, including custodianship programmes that motivate landowners to protect it.

Jam-packed year for Volkswagen

It is going to be a busy year for Volkswagen as the German carmaker introduces a host of new passenger and commercial vehicles to the South African market. Charl Bosch attended the annual VW Indaba in Kariega, Eastern Cape, to get a glimpse of its 2025 product roll-out.

How to achieve ostrich product perfection

Ostrich farming is a well-established industry in South Africa which, aside from meat, produces feathers and leather that are in demand around the world. Dr Anel Engelbrecht, ostrich researcher at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Oudtshoorn Research Farm, shared tips with Glenneis Kriel on how farmers can improve the quality of their ostrich feathers and leather.

Building the macadamia puzzle one insight at a time

Trees that produce good yields of quality nuts form the foundation of a successful macadamia farm. Leaving no stone unturned in his approach, farmer Hentie van der Merwe has proven that paying attention to every factor that influences his crop yields the best results.

Industrial-scale farming is flawed: what ecologically friendly farming practices could look like in Africa

African Perspectives on Agroecology is a new book with 33 contributions from academics, non-governmental organisations, farmer organisations and policymakers.

Language in agriculture

In South Africa, there are 12 official languages. And while these languages should be celebrated for representing diverse cultures, it does make it difficult to include everyone equally at all times.

When short-term rentals make sense

Bianca Smit, national operations manager at CFAO Equipment SA, outlines factors to consider when choosing a rental equipment partner.

The timing of onion sowing is critical

Each onion variety has a different resistance to bolting, thus growers need experience and knowledge to guide them,

Understanding cannabis and hemp regulations in South Africa

South Africa's cannabis and hemp regulations remain a topic of debate and uncertainty, particularly when it comes to commercial use and small-scale production. Cannabis experts Shaad Vayej and Trenton Birch spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the challenges that small-scale cannabis and hemp farmers face.

European seed's influence on the US cannabis market

The expansion of European cannabis seed onto the US market is not just about economic growth; it’s also about enriching the landscape of US cannabis with diversity, innovation and education,

'It's important to get the right tool for the job'

The adoption of technology is crucial to sustaining efficiency gains and beating the cost-price squeeze in the agriculture sector.

A brilliant bushveld break between Bela-Bela and Modimolle

The distinctive touch, diligence, and 24/7 customer care are just a few of the reasons you should visit four-star Tourism Council-graded Pumula Game Farm,