Paprika, as an alternative crop, has saved a number of former tobacco farmers in the Brits and Ohrigstad areas from ruin. Not only is the domestic market for paprika growing steadily, but the export market is also favourable.
The success of the South African paprika industry on the export market depends on the quality of its product, says Kobus Serfontein, plant pathologist at the Vegetable and Ornamental Plants Research Institute at Roodeplant.
EXPORT MARKET
Because paprika is prone to a number of diseases, injudicious use of agrochemicals is sometimes made. Serfontein says such use will certainly affect the good name of local paprika producers on the export market.
European countries, the prime export markets, generally have high standards with regard to chemical residues in food.
Producers must use only registered agrochemicals and comply strictly with application instructions. If residues exceed maximum permissible levels in a particular consignment, it will be rejected. As the levels vary from country, Serfontein urges caution.
Judging by the number of cases handled at Roodeplaat during the past season, paprika producers are already experiencing problems.
The most important diseases encountered were powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungus Leveillula taurica, viral diseases and fruit stain. Bacterial stain, caused by Xanthomonas campestris, occurs less frequently. Sunburn, due to leaf loss caused by powdery mildew, is the primary cause of poor fruit.
This story is from the November 10, 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
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This story is from the November 10, 2023 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.
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