
When Gawie Steyn, who farms near Kanoneiland in the Northern Cape, decided to switch to organic raisin production in 2008, his greatest initial challenge was to obtain enough organic material as soil cover.
Soil cover, he explains, is needed to reduce evaporation, which in turn improves the efficiency of flood irrigation and makes it easier to keep the top 20cm of soil saturated. This is important for farmers along the Orange River, as they take turns to irrigate their vineyards, which means that some receive water only every second week.
The soil cover also helps to buffer the soil against extreme temperatures, thereby encouraging the growth of a diversity of micro-organisms important for soil health and mineralisation.
Initially, Steyn considered buying straw or chaff to spread under the vine rows, but was unable to obtain any that was organically produced. He therefore made do with weeds already growing in the vineyards, but this failed to produce good results due to the hot climate.
“Our summer temperatures range from 22°C up to 42°C or higher, so the weeds decompose within a few days after being slashed and thrown onto the vine rows.”
LUCERNE
In 2014, Steyn decided to opt for lucerne as a cover crop between the vineyards.
“Lucerne is a clear winner under our conditions because it’s a perennial crop, it produces plenty of dry matter, and it’s a legume, which fixes nitrogen through symbiosis with rhizobium bacteria.
“Having flood irrigation also lessens competition for water between the vines and the lucerne.”
In addition, a perennial crop reduces cost, as the plants don’t have to be re-established each year, and there is less interference with the soil.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の Farmer's Weekly 2 June 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の Farmer's Weekly 2 June 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン

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.