Why it matters

South Africa faces growing pressure to diversify its cropping systems, especially in regions with poor soil conditions and erratic rainfall. This project explores the viability of pigeon pea and dry beans as alternative crops that can enhance food security and reduce reliance on conventional inputs. By improving seed germination and crop performance under challenging conditions, the research aims to support sustainable intensification and broaden the options available to both commercial and smallholder farmers. It also explores the potential to reduce external inputs by using soil microbes to improve plant growth, offering a climate-resilient farming solution.

Research approach

The study takes a two-pronged approach, focusing on seed germination and agronomic performance. At the University of the Western Cape, researchers assess soil health, characterise microbial populations using genome sequencing, and test microbial and chemical treatments (e.g. CaCl₂ and CaSO₄) to boost pigeon pea seed germination under poor soil conditions. At the Agricultural Research Council, field trials examine the effect of row spacing and plant population on pigeon pea yields, and test dry bean double cropping systems. Comparative trials assess the suitability and resilience of pigeon pea versus dry beans under variable environmental stressors, including drought and waterlogging.

Research impact to farmers

Farmers stand to benefit from practical, site-specific knowledge about which crops perform best in marginal soils and variable rainfall regions. The findings can inform better planting strategies, from row spacing to crop choice, potentially improving yields and resilience. The use of microbial and chemical seed treatments may offer low-cost interventions to boost germination and early plant growth. By identifying locally adapted alternative crops and practices, the project provides farmers with more options to manage risk, improve profitability, and reduce dependency on expensive soil amendments or irrigation, particularly important for resource-limited smallholders.

Resources

Reports

Articles

Collaborators & research leads with the collaborative institutions: on the side

Lead:

• Prof Ashwil Klein, University of the Western Cape 
• Prof Marshall Keyster, University of the Western Cape 
• Mr Deon du Toit, Agricultural Research Council