Straight from the field

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.

Discover how the Maritz Nel Family Trust integrates maize and grazing to build healthier soil, stronger cattle, and sustainable dryland farming in the Free State.

Discover how Maritz Nel Farming prepares livestock for market with care and sustainability — from pasture management and feeding to transport and humane slaughter practices.