South Africa is renowned for its diverse agricultural landscapes. However, some producers face significant challenges, particularly concerning their water needs in a water-scarce country. Precision irrigation stands out as a solution that can aid farmers in overcoming this challenge.
Charl van Reenen, agronomy manager at Netafim South Africa, explains that the availability of water directly influences crop yield, quality, and the sustainability of farming operations.
With the increasingly erratic rainfall patterns experienced in many areas and limited freshwater reserves, producers often struggle to secure sufficient water for irrigation during critical growth stages of their crops. For this reason, Van Reenen says producers need to be proactive and manage their use of available water resources to prevent setbacks. "Precision irrigation involves the application of water in a targeted manner, taking into account the specific needs of plants and optimising water-use efficiency," he adds. This approach contrasts with traditional methods like flood irrigation, which can lead to significant water wastage and inefficient resource allocation.
Netafim, recognised as the world's largest irrigation company and a leader in precision irrigation solutions, has been a cornerstone in South Africa's agricultural landscape since 1992. Operating from Kraaifontein in the Western Cape, Netafim South Africa serves the Southern African region with innovative irrigation solutions and dedicated services.
Driven by its slogan, 'Grow more with less', the company offers holistic irrigation solutions designed to empower producers of all sizes and types. The goal is to enable them to achieve increased productivity while minimising their resource use.
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.