2024

A word from… Dr Sandile Ngcamphalala February 2024 In simple terms, the forecasted El Niño occurrence in the 2023/2024 summer season is a prediction of possible below-normal rainfall. These conditions are common to South African grain farmers, as compared to the rare heavy rains we have experienced in the past four years.  The latest

Hay is an important link in animal production February 2024 PIETMAN BOTHA,  INDEPENDENT AGRI- CULTURAL CONSULTANT   Making hay is expensive, so farmers must first decide why they want to do it. If hay is needed in the fodder flow, it has to be made. However, grazing animals on pastures is a better option as

Strategies to combat maize ear rots February 2024 DR BELINDA JANSE VAN RENSBURG AND DR BRADLEY FLETT, ARC-GRAIN CROPS   This article aims to give farmers information regarding the most important maize ear rots and how to minimise them from occurring by using the correct management procedures. The focus will be on the three main

Grain hedging can save costs February 2024 JOHAN TEESSEN, ECONOMIST INTERN, GRAIN SA   With the marketing season starting soon, it is important to begin thinking about marketing your grain and how to do it. Therefore, this article series will start by giving the background of hedging and why you should know about it.  WHAT

How to identify Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum February 2024 DR LISA ROTHMAN, LECTURER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE, AND DR GODFREY KGATLE, RESEARCH COORDINATOR AT GRAIN SA   Sclerotinia can be regarded as one of the most devastating diseases of oilseed crops (canola, soybean and sunflower) in South Africa. Cabbage, lettuce and weeds are also crops that

Machine maintenance can save you money February 2024 PIETMAN BOTHA,  INDEPENDENT AGRI- CULTURAL CONSULTANT   The breaking of farm equipment can be prevented by replacing wearing parts on time and by doing regular maintenance. Maintenance must be done daily before machinery starts operating and on scheduled times as prescribed by the owner’s operation manual.  It