Straight from the field

Winter is where many dryland cattle systems quietly lose money. Not because of one big mistake — but because of small, compounding ones: underestimating feed requirements over-relying on poor-quality grazing reacting too late when conditions...

In South Africa’s agricultural sector, long-term success depends on disciplined management, adaptability, and respect for the land. Maritz Nel, CEO and Founder of the Maritz Nel Family Trust, leads a diversified farming enterprise dedicated to...

Maize Crop Harvest timing is one of the most important decisions in maize production. Harvesting too early can lead to high grain moisture, increased drying costs, and potential quality problems. Harvesting too late can result...

Crop rotation is one of the most powerful and cost-effective tools available to South African farmers. Among rotational crops, soya beans stand out for their ability to improve soil health, reduce fertiliser costs, and increase...

Discover how improving soil biology can increase fertiliser efficiency, reduce input costs, and improve long-term farm profitability in South Africa.

Five key trends shaping South African dryland farms this season, from soil health decisions to risk management and input strategies.

Soil health is often misunderstood. We separate common myths from proven science to explain what truly builds fertile, productive farmland.

Dryland farming remains one of the most important — and most challenging — agricultural systems in South Africa. With increasing climate variability, rising input costs, and pressure on natural resources, farmers operating without irrigation must...

Farm value is often discussed in terms of land size, rainfall, infrastructure, and recent production figures. While these factors remain important, they tell only part of the story. Increasingly, the long-term valuation of agricultural land...

Regenerative agriculture has become one of the most discussed concepts in modern farming. It is often presented as a silver bullet for soil degradation, climate resilience, and long-term farm profitability. Yet, for many farmers, particularly...

Learn how to prevent heat stress in livestock during South Africa’s mid-summer months. Practical tips on water, shade, feeding, parasite control and more.

Maize is central to South Africa’s food security and agriculture—fuelling families, livestock, and a multi-billion-dollar farming economy.