How long have you been involved in the avocado industry and in what capacity?
Avocados have been part of my life since I started at Westfalia in January 1986. I have held various management positions in operations and the commercial environment and served on the board of the South African Avocado Growers' Association (SAAGA) from 1994 to 2013.
Since 2017, I have been a shareholder and director in three farming operations in the Southern Cape, which produce mainly avocados but also soft citrus and macadamias.
How does the avocado industry differ in the northern provinces compared with the Western Cape?
Western Cape avocados have a later window in the market, as harvesting of the Hass and Gem cultivars starts in late September (mostly young trees) or the beginning of October, and runs until the end of December.
The plantings at Soekmekaar and Magoebaskloof in Limpopo and certain areas in KwaZulu-Natal have marketing windows similar to those of avocados from the Southern Cape.
How do the unique agricultural challenges faced by avocado growers in the Western Cape, such as soil variability and wind, contrast with those in other regions?
From a technical viewpoint, the variation in soil types in the Western Cape is a challenge. Avocados prefer well-drained soil.
Soil mapping is important when planning avocado orchards, as irrigation blocks should be determined by soil type. This can complicate irrigation planning and management practices. On a 20ha piece of land in the George area, there can be five to six different types of soil.
This story is from the July 26, 2024 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 26, 2024 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
More funding needed to flood-proof Olifants River
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Dr Ivan Meyer recently handed over R14,98 million to the Citrusdal Water Users’ Association.
Zambia, Burundi agree to maximise agri potential
In a bid to capitalise on the livestock and arable land in Zambia and Burundi, the two countries have agreed in principle to review the existing bilateral trade agreement in agricultural products under memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and to bolster foreign exchange earnings.
Expanded market brings avocado season success
The South African avocado industry is making headway in India after gaining market access earlier this year. Supported by the World Avocado Organization (WAO), consumers and food businesses in India are being educated about the health benefits of regular avocado consumption and how best to use this fruit in Indian cuisine.
Plan needed to enhance competitiveness of SA's deciduous fruit canning industry
Dr Heinrich Jantjies, group risk, safety and security director at Tiger Brands, says the deciduous fruit canning industry has been on a decline in South Africa since 2016. He suggests implementing a Deciduous Fruit Canning Industry Recovery and Competitive Plan to turn the industry around.
Kruger's memory lingers in his Boekenhoutfontein farmhouses
Lucille Davie visits Kedar Heritage Lodge in North West to see the farmhouses Paul Kruger owned.
From street art to feats of engineering, Bristol has it all
Brian Berkman visits the vibrant UK port city of Bristol and says two days are not enough to explore renowned graffiti artist Banksy's hometown and pop in at all the historical taverns.
Managing broodmares and foals profitably and safely
Broodmares and their foals are at high risk of stress, diseases and injuries if their management is suboptimal, says Dr Mac.
Double cab's leisure features find favour
The GWM P500 2.0T HEV 4x4 Super Luxury AT has launched in South Africa, and the bakkie takes aim at the more premium, leisure-focused offerings from rival brands. Car Magazine's Marius Boonzaier writes.
More fungal diseases that can infect beans
Bill Kerr explains the symptoms of angular leaf spot and anthracnose and how to avoid infection in your fields.
Keeping invasive insects at bay
Featuring an array of delicious fruit from peaches to cherries, stone fruit is attractive to a variety of bugs that can be effectively controlled with integrated pest management, writes Zunel van Eeden.