CATEGORIES

Why sexed semen is ideal for emerging cattle farmers

In a recent study, Luther Magopa of the Agricultural Research Council, along with other researchers, looked at the possibility and benefits of using sexed semen in emerging or small-scale cattle production.

Is fire really the answer to bush encroachment?

A 10-year study conducted in Kruger National Park by scientists from South African National Parks, Stellenbosch University and Harvard University has shown that high-density fires do not have a long-term effect on the scourge of bush encroachment.

The mollusc menace

Arnold du Preez, owner of Snail and Slug Solutions, warns that the surge in slug and snail populations will prove a major threat to agriculture unless farmers tackle the problem proactively. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel.

Conventional or 'regenerative' farming?

Regenerative agriculture might be a hot topic, but there is no clear definition of what the practice entails, says soil scientist Dr Neil Miles. Also, one has to wonder just how bad’ conventional farming practices really are.

'SA fruit walks a tightrope with BRICS alignment'

South Africa‘s citrus industry , in particular, could come under pressure if the country does not take heed of its international political alignments, according to industry stakeholders.

Fresh produce prices look set to continue rising during 2023

The prices of most fresh produce categories, tomatoes being the exception, increased dramatically over the past year. Absa AgriBusiness discusses this and other trends in the marketplace.

Five devices set to revolutionise agriculture

Justin Platt, founder and CEO of regenerative farming companies Zylem SA and RegenZ, looks at the key technologies affecting agriculture.

The importance of timing in your farming operation

You may know all that’s necessary about growing a crop, but if your timing is off, your profits will suffer severely, says Bill Kerr.

Bridging the Great Fish River

An almost 150-year-old iron bridge over the Eastern Cape’s Great Fish River is a fine example of British civil engineer Joseph Newey’s contributions to bridge building in South Africa during the 19th century, writes Mike Burgess.

Explaining the January 2023 drought 'anomaly'

Dr Johan Malherbe, a researcher in soil, climate and water at the Agricultural Research Council, explores the effect of a very dry January on the rest of the planting season.

Perseverance: to stud-farming the key success

Bonsmara stud manager Sizo Tshabalala believes there is a lesson to be learnt from every challenge. He spoke to Lindi Botha about how his passion for farming and determination to succeed have helped him overcome every obstacle he has faced on his journey to achieving his agricultural dreams.

Living off the land, thanks to diversification

Producing a variety of crops and livestock has enabled Tabby Robertshaw and her partner to realise their dream of homesteading. She spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the hard work they have put into the venture.

Prevention can outsmart pests and diseases

Successful pest and disease management depends on scouting and monitoring crops. Magda du Toit spoke to a major citrus producer, as well as pest-control experts from various organisations.

Beef and wine in South Korea: big for SA exporters opportunities

South Korea has been touted by many agricultural economists and other industry role players as a burgeoning market for South African agricultural trade.

Pulses: an important part of the food system

Dr Nadia Radzman, a research associate in plant biology at the University of Cambridge in the UK, speaks about nutrient-packed pulses and the vital role they play in food security.

The multi-talented magnate who helped to lay the foundation of SA's sugar industry

Sir James Liege Hulett was a pioneer, philanthropist and politician who left his legacy spread across the sprawling sugar cane fields of KwaZulu-Natal, and achieved much else besides. Graham Jooste tells his story.

A relaxed, pet-friendly yet luxurious hotel in the heart of Cape Town

More and more hotels are allowing guests to bring their pet dogs along for the stay. The SunSquare Cape Town Gardens is among these, and offers a delightful stay for humans, too!

A safe family home on a farm in KZN

Dear Jonno, I’ve bought a derelict farm in KwaZulu-Natal and need your help to make it liveable for a city slicker.

Mango upside-down cake

Fans of pineapple upside-down cake will love the bursts of fresh mango flavour in this twist on the original recipe.

Mahindra launches the all-new Scorpio-N

The Scorpio-N nomenclature was carefully chosen to represent the claim that this vehicle raises the game to 'the power of N'.

Removal of waste in stables

With its implications for health, waste removal is a key aspect of management. It requires proper planning and a well-designed system that allow the task to be done quickly and efficiently, says Dr Mac.

VEGETABLES Potato growing for new farmers: Part 1

The potato is 99,9% fat-free, and yet it's a nutrient-dense food and an important dietary staple in more than 130 countries. Growing it isn't as labour-intensive as you might think, says our veggie expert, Bill Kerr.

Production tips from a top pome fruit farm

Attention to detail has helped Welgemeen Boerdery achieve top honours for its Golden Delicious and Kanzi apples, and Abate Fetel pears. Hannes and Sakkie Hanekom explained their approach to Glenneis Kriel.

How soil can benefit from livestock farming

Despite the common narrative regarding the negative effects that animal agriculture has on the planet and its climate, livestock are, in fact, important components in the maintenance of soil health.

A silver bullet to protect your herds and flocks

Silver hydrogen peroxide is a stable disinfectant with numerous purposes, says Douglas Spinas of Peroxsil Ag+ at Phend Pharmaceuticals.

Unlocking the soil's potential with biochar

Biochar, the residue created by burning biomass, has been increasingly recognised for its remarkable ability to improve soil fertility and store carbon. Kobus Stoop, director of Cape Town-based Senfore Soil Conditioning, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the substance and its potential for agriculture.

Controlling pests and diseases in cannabis cultivation

New technologies can help growers overcome the difficulties involved in producing a healthy and profitable crop as the cannabis business continues to expand and change, says Thomas Walker.

Better times ahead for dairy farmers

For several years, milk producers have been squeezed by stagnant and lower producer prices and higher input prices.

'EU's false codling moth phytosanitary rules threaten citrus sector'

The South African citrus export industry is under immense financial pressure following the EU’s implementation of stringent new phytosanitary regulations.

Guidelines on how to reduce wind damage in citrus orchards

New research has revealed the benefits of planting windbreaks in citrus orchards to prevent wind damage to the fruit.