There is no one-size-fits-all approach to crop protection, according to Rodney Bell, CEO of CropLife South Africa. Fortunately, farmers have a diverse toolbox at their disposal to safely control or manage pests and diseases. They can minimize damage from pests by using state-of-the-art chemical and biological products, advanced data analytics, and precision technologies.
Bell says that implementing an integrated pest management (IPM) programme makes sense.
"Consumers are increasingly demanding food that is produced in a sustainable manner. Farmers need to be more conscious of the pest control methods they apply on their farms and look at implementing an IPM system.
"In many instances, the overuse of chemical pesticides has led to issues such as pesticide resistance, outbreaks of previously suppressed pests, and environmental contamination. "IPM systems evolved as a response to manage pests in agricultural crops through a combination of biological, cultural, physical and chemical control methods."
Agricultural consultant Andrew Bennett explains that IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices.
"IPM programmes are based on gathering information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment, and are used to manage pest damage to crops by the most economical means with the least possible hazard to people and the environment."
He adds that managing or controlling pests and diseases in this way is a broad-based approach that integrates various practices in an economically viable manner.
“It's an adaptable system that looks at the most suitable application or action to address the specific problem or need. In the process, each method is evaluated and decisions are based on proper information and applied in a way that makes practical sense.
Denne historien er fra May 20, 2022-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra May 20, 2022-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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ARC names best dairy producers of the year
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) recently announced the winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards at an event hosted by AgriExpo in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Lion breeders to give up bone stockpiles?
The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued an official notice in mid-November in which it called on lion breeders to voluntarily hand over their lion bone stockpiles to the state as soon as possible.
Thousands of British farmers march on parliament against inheritance tax
Thousands of UK farmers gathered in London, England, on 19 November to demand the government repeal a proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, which they argued threatened the future of family-run farms (see page 4), Al Jazeera reported.
Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives
This wholesome, vibrant frittata is perfect for brunch or a light supper. Recipe and photo: The South African Avocado Growers' Association.
Feed, hay, and other costs are up, so it's time to get creative
Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.
How to make polystyrene seedling trays last longer
While thinking about how to prolong the lifespan of polystyrene seedling trays that are exposed to harsh sunlight, Bill Kerr began to wonder if a coat of paint might offer a solution.
Living the 'culture' in agriculture
Creation Wines has won numerous awards, was ranked fourth in the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, and more recently won the V d’Or award for the Best Brand Experience. The owners, Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how their winery became a top tourism destination.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Around 100km from both Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng and a tad over 40km from Rustenburg in North West, Farmer’s Weekly found a fine retreat on a working farm where couples may kindle their romance.
African penguins could be extinct by 2035 how to save them
Protecting the critically endangered African penguin is good for the environment, other animal species, and the economy, say Lorien Pichegru and Dr Alistair McInnes of Nelson Mandela University, Katrin Ludynia of the University of Cape Town, and Peter Barham of the University of Bristol in the UK.
An urgent need to confront Nassella in SA
South American grass species from the genus Nassella were unwittingly introduced to South Africa over 120 years ago and continue to invade montane veld. As Mike Burgess writes, research-based action is required.
