Vegetables & Fruit March/April 2024

New broccoli variety introduced

BROCCOLI & CAULIFLOWER RANGE

GONGGA

• Domed shaped heads

• Very good heat tolerance

• Small-medium sized beads

• Maturity is 70-80 days in summer

VELOZ

• Domed shaped heads

• Very good cold tolerance

• Small-medium sized beads

• Maturity 75 - 100 days in winter

STAR 2204

• Medium to large frame with good disease resistance

• Excellent quality head with few sideshoots

• Very high marketable yield potential

• Firm, dome-shaped heads with short to medium florets

KAMINO

• High yielding variety for summer conditions

• Maturing 64 - 74 days from transplant, depending on area

• Excellent quality, white colour, very well tucked curds

• Strong frame size and great curd cover

• Suitable for loose and prepack heads market

SPACEDREAM

• High yielding variety for winter conditions

• Maturing from transplant, 90-110 days depending on cold and area

• Excellent quality, smooth texture, very well tucked

• Strong frame size and great curd cover

• Suitable for loose and prepack heads market

STAR 4418

• Excellent quality, smooth texture, very well tucked

• Early maturing (75 - 85 days in summer) with a medium frame

• High marketable yield potential

• Very tightly wrapped heads with intense white colour

Edition 218

ISSN 1015-85 37

www.vegetablesandfruitmagazine.co.za

COVER

EDITORIAL

Willie Louw (Group editor)

Carien Daffue (Editor)

082 927 8294 018 293 0622 info@mediakom.co.za PO BOX 20250, Noordbrug, 2522

ADVERTISING

Jana Greenall 011 476 3702 082 780 9914 mediacom@lantic.net

DESIGN

Mercia Venter studio.chatnoir@gmail.com

The popularity of the Superslam variety from Sakata is growing exponentially year after year because of its potential size and the fact that it grows well in cold conditions.

NEWS

4 The crucial role of crop diversification in SA’s agricultural future

4 Digitale platform vir plaasbestuur ingestel

5 Jane Strijdom appointed IFPA’s country manager in SA

5 MSC’s additional shipping service welcomed by citrus growers

BRASSICA

6 New broccoli variety introduced

8 Buitengewone insekbeheer met wêreldklas aktiewe bestanddeel

www.vegetablesandfruitmagazine.co.za

Bly ingelig en volg ons op Facebook. Keep up to date and follow us on Facebook.

Besoek ons webtuiste | Visit our website: Groente & Vrugte | Vegetables & Fruit www.facebook.com/SAGroenteenVrugte

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Available on subscription only - visit website: Slegs met intekening beskikbaar - besoek webblad: www.vegetablesandfruitmagazine.co.za

1 Year @ R250.00 (6 issues)

2 Years @ R475.00 (12 issues)

VAT included

In case of address change, please quote or attach previous address label Special rates for group subscriptions

10 Clubroot is threatening brassica production

12 Selecting the right cabbage variety for the right season

MACADAMIA

14 Macadamia orchard management hints

16 New technologies on display at AmberMacs macadamia expo

GENERAL

18 South African apple and pear industry set to bounce back in 2024

18 South African rooibos tea triumph in China

20 Biologiese staatmakers in weerstandsbestuur.

22 Subtrop bemarkingsimposium

26 Sakata celebrates a successful farmers’ day

28 Avokadoprodusente benut nuwighede vir groeiende bedryf

30 Roes kan knoffel, lente-uie en preie beskadig

The crucial role of crop diversification in SA’s agricultural future

The agricultural landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as the traditional practice of mono-cropping, where a single crop variety is planted extensively across vast tracts of land, is rapidly fading.

That’s according to Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist at FNB, who says that sustainable crop production now demands urgent attention towards diversifying crops. He argues that this shift is not just a trend, but a necessary and urgent response to the multitude of challenges that modern agriculture faces.

Makube highlights that the economic benefits of crop diversification are equally compelling. Just as investors are advised to diversify their portfolios to minimise risk, farmers are encouraged to adopt a similar approach with their crops.

“In a climate-challenged and water scarce environment like South Africa, diversification isn’t just a strategy, it's a necessity. The increasing unpredictability of weather patterns in the region, exacerbated by climate change, necessitates a rapid shift to a more resilient agricultural model.”

According to Makube, crop diversification also has an important risk mitigation role to play in modern-day farming, one that can be optimised through localised and geographically dispersed diversification approaches.

“Crop diversification isn’t only about cultivating different crops on the same piece of land,” he explains, “but can also involve geographic diversification by planting across different regions where this is possible.”

While, for many individual farmers, this geographic diversification is not always easy, Makube says that it can be a very valuable strategy to pursue – even through collaboration with farmers in other regions – because it effectively spreads out the risks associated with rainfall variability, diseases, and pests.

Makube says that recent years have seen regenerative agriculture, which prioritises the restoration of ecosystems through practices like crop diversification, gaining traction amongst ag-

ricultural communities in many parts of South Africa.

“Regenerative agriculture is very important because it underscores the importance of viewing farming not just as a business, but also as the stewardship of the land for future generations,” he explains. As such, he argues that regenerative agriculture is the next phase in the evolution of sustainable farming in South Africa, and it is enjoying increasing support from banks and other financiers because it holds great promise in terms of rejuvenating soils, preserving environments and ecosystems and uplifting communities.

“The shift to diversified cropping systems and regenerative farming is not just a passing trend, it’s a fundamental change driven by the need for environmental sustainability and economic resilience. The importance of all farmers embracing these practices cannot be overstated as it’s the only sure path to a secure and sustainable food future,” Makube concludes.

Digitale platform vir plaasbestuur ingestel

Die landboumaatskappy Obaro het die eerste fase van sy digitale platform vir plaasbestuur ingestel. Die platform, Farmers Friend Enterprise, gee gedurende die eerste fase toegang aan Obaro-personeel en uitgesoekte produsente.

Dit is ‘n wolkgebaseerde toepassing met waardevolle plaasbestuursoplossings wat produsente in staat stel om hulle data te bestuur, die opberging van inligting te beveilig en dit maklik en foutloos met ‘n rekenaar of slimfoon te deel.

Obaro sê hierdie rekenaargesteunde landboukundige hulpmiddel skep ‘n verlaging in boerderykoste en die bestuur

van risiko, asook die verskaffing van betekenisvolle inligting aan produsente rakende hul daaglikse werk. Dit poog ook om bydraes te lewer tot die verhoging van oes-opbrengste.

IQ Logistica gee ondersteuning aan Obaro tydens die registrasie en aantekenproses om die oorgang na 'n digitale omgewing te vergemaklik. Obaro sal toegang hê tot produsente se data, wat Obaro in staat sal stel om vinnig op behoeftes te reageer, produsente by te staan in hul daaglikse aktiwiteite, risiko’s te bestuur en ingeligte besluite te neem.

Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist at FNB.

Strijdom appointed IFPA’s country manager in SA

Because of her leadership and strong knowledge of the local industry, Jane Strijdom was the ideal candidate to lead the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) forward as it looks to expand and enhance its presence in South Africa.

According to a statement by the IFPA, Jane will as country manager represent IFPA in South Africa, and continue to work with the South Africa country council and members on fostering strong relationships and creating a best-in-class membership experience.

“Since Strijdom began working with the IFPA in 2020, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to member service, as well as an understanding of the needs of the IFPA’s members in the region.”

Jennifer Roets will continue with IFPA, remaining an integral part of the team and supporting Jane in her new role with a focus on membership efforts. To further strengthen its presence in South Africa, IFPA has also invested in additional resources to provide comprehensive support and ensure that Strijdom and Roets have strong support in developing marketing and communications resources to support membership needs, programming, and local events.

MSC’s additional shipping service welcomed by citrus growers

The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) welcomed an additional direct shipping service from the ports of Ngqura and Gqeberha for the export of citrus. MSC, a global container shipping leader, announced an additional service, running every Tuesday from the end of May to the beginning of September, during the height of the citrus season. Growers expect an increased crop yield in the coming season.is rapidly fading.

MSC has provided the citrus industry with shipping services for many years and this expanded offering is a welcome development, says the CGA in a statement. The additional service is good news for Eastern Cape citrus growers. Members in Patensie, the Sunday's River Valley, and Kat River who export high-quality citrus to Europe, will be able to make use of this option, which helps to protect jobs and much needed foreign revenue for South Africa.

The CGA says they are looking forward to the year with cautious optimism. The fruit on the trees is looking very good and growers expect an increased crop yield.

“There is a potential for another record-setting number of cartons exported. It has been projected that South Africa can, with the committed support of all role-players, increase its citrus exports from last year's 165,1 million 15 kg cartons to 260 million cartons by 2032. This will not only generate more revenue but create 100 000 more jobs on farm level alone.”

It is in this context that the CGA is thankful for the increased capacity in the shipping market.

The CGA also welcomes the announcement that a leading global liner shipping company, Hapag-Lloyd, is now offering its services in exporting citrus from the ports in Durban and

Gqeberha.

Hapag-Lloyd's entry is a direct result of an advisory project launched by several fresh produce associations, including the CGA, in 2022. In that same year, a study by the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) found that four out of five citrus growers made a loss, with extremely high shipping rates being a major contributing factor to the decrease in profitability.

The CGA's role in facilitating Hapag-Lloyd's entry into the market was undertaken in the hope of increasing both capacity and competition so that long-term sustainability for the sector can be ensured.

Recent shipping price spikes due to attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, as well as drought-related complications affecting the Panama Canal, have shown how exposed many fruit exporters are to increases in shipping rates and the CGA views any measure that can introduce some stability and competition into the shipping market as a step forward.

“The citrus industry and the broader economy need as much access to shipping as possible. Apart from keeping the market competitive and flexible, a new entrant is also welcome in the context of the large projected increase in citrus yield over the next few years.”

Jane

Jane Strijdom.

New broccoli variety introduced

Gongga is a new Starke Ayres broccoli variety recently introduced to the South African market. Withstanding the temperature fluctuations and weekly rain of KwaZulu-Natal’s past summer season and yielding exceptional crops under the circumstances, as it did, is something special.

It was planted in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, where conditions were initially cool but soon changed to hot and humid. Feedback received was that the variety did not lose its shape and still produced an attractive product in the punnets. In the packhouse, Gongga presented a dark green colour with a perfectly dome-shaped head.

An important feature of Gongga is the very high cut percentage in the field despite the tough conditions. Growers were able to cut almost 100% of the planted population. It was primarily planted as a summer variety and was cut at 75 days after transplant. With this maturity it slots perfectly into any planting programme.

Gongga also showed it has good field resistance to various head and leaf diseases. This, coupled with a strong vigorous plant, means it is a reliable choice for difficult times.

This new variety was not only a success in KwaZulu-Natal, but also performed well in the Northern region under slightly more favourable growing conditions.

Collaborative efforts to address port challenges

Recently a delegation from Agbiz, FPEF, SATI, Hortgro, and CGA met with Transnet’s executive team under the leadership of Michelle Phillips, the Action Group Executive. The meeting follows a letter co-signed by Agbiz, Fruit SA, and the FPEF drawing attention to challenges experienced at the Port of Cape Town.

At the meeting, the industry reiterated the need for short-, medium, and long-term interventions to manage the remainder of the summer export season and beyond. As an immediate measure, a “war room” will be established between industry and Transnet that meets on a day-to-day basis.

The aim is to improve real-time communication between the port and its stakeholders and to monitor productivity improvements.

Such a platform is vital to mitigate the impact of wind closures and to ensure optimal use of recovery times post-closures due to wind. From the industry’s side, these efforts will be coordinated by FPEF and include all relevant stakeholders in the value chain. - Agbiz e-Newsletter 18 Jan 2024

Westfalia pushes further into Asian avocado markets

Westfalia Fruit is looking ahead to continued market expansion across Asia in the latter half of the decade as it caps off a year of growth in India and China –two of the fastest-growing avocado markets in the world – and Japan.

Westfalia entered the Indian market in 2022, investing in local production, and nurseries and quickly securing its position as the market leader. The Indian market has grown tenfold in the last few years with consumption increasing from 200 to 4 000 tonnes. In China, the avocado market saw a downturn during pandemic lockdowns but since 2023 things have looked more optimistic. In August 2023, South African avocados were granted access to the Chinese market.

As the leading exporter of South African avocados, Westfalia Fruit represents half of all exports and believes this significant development will shape the future of agriculture in the country. In addition, South Africa was recently granted avocado market access to Japan. As a globally integrated business, Westfalia’s teams are working together to supply the market 12 months of the year from complimentary growing areas. - Article from fruitnet.com.

Gongga is a new broccoli variety recently introduced to the South African market.

ONS DOELGEMAAKTE, WETENSKAPGEBASEERDE GEWASBESTUURSPROGRAMME INTEGREER GEWASBESKERMING, PLANTVOEDING EN GRONDGESONDHEID MET 'N FOKUS OP DIE HANDHAWING VAN EKOSISTEMIESE BALANS EN DIE BEVORDERING VAN BIODIVERSITEIT.

Ons bied `n volledige bio-produkreeks wat integraal is tot die skepping van pasgemaakte geïntegreerde plaagbeheerprogramme, soos:

Bio-stimulante

Voordelige Insekte

Bio-Plaagdoders

Bio-Swamdoders

Lok-en-Dood-metodes

Paringsontwrigtings

NexusAG Croplife-geakkrediteerde gewasadviseurs bied maatpas gewasbestuursprogramme, wat elke produsent se unieke omgewing en spesifieke omstandighede in ag neem, om volhoubare oplossings te bied.

Buitengewone insekbeheer met wêreldklas aktiewe bestanddeel

Die nuwegenerasie Circaden® insekbeheerder, aangedryf deur die aktiewe middel Cyazypyr®, is ’n baanbreker-produk vir vroeëseisoen-beskerming teen insekte en vir gesonder plante, van begin tot einde.

Die produk het ’n unieke aksie teen ’n wye spektrum van suigende en kouende plae sodat die gewas meer veerkragtig kan wees. Toedienings vroeg in die gewassiklus kan help om sagte saailinge teen voedingskade te beskerm en teen oordrag van sekere siektes deur insekte, veral wanneer dit as deel van ’n plaagbestuursprogram gebruik word.

Circaden® 200 SC insekbeheer van FMC is nou in SuidAfrika beskikbaar en bied breëspektrumbeheer in gewasse teen skadelike insekte, waaronder belangrike spesies soos witvlieg, plantluise, blaaspootjies, bladmyners en Lepidoptera. Die produk verbeter die vestiging van gewasse soos tamaties, soetrissies en kool deur grondtoediening in die vroeë seisoen tydens plant of oorplant met deurdrenkte saailinglaaie of drupbesproeiing.

“Die aktiewe middel Cyazypyr in Circaden 200 SC is ’n wêreldklas aktiewe bestanddeel wat ’n wye spektrum van kounde en suigende plae beheer,” verduidelik Ben Schoonwinkel, FMC se sakehoof vir Suid-Afrika. “Dit is ’n uitstekende opsie vir produsente om in ’n vroeë toediening te gebruik om plantvestiging en groeikrag te bevorder, veral in groente. Gewasse reageer baie goed en toon uitsonderlike plantgesondheid in die vroeë stadiums as gevolg van die vermindering van gewasstremming.”

Cyazypyr® is ’n kragtige antranieldiamied-insekdoder wat produsente in staat stel om verskeie sleutelplae te beheer. ’n Groot aantal veld-, kweekhuis- en laboratoriumnavorsing in baie lande het getoon dat Cyazypyr®- bevattende produkte baie doeltreffend is teen verskeie spesies van beide kouende en suigende plae in ’n verskeidenheid gewasse.

Die unieke eienskappe van Cyazypyr® laat selektiewe beheer van plae toe, terwyl voordelige geleedpotiges beskerm en bewaar word. Cyazypyr®- gebaseerde insekdoders het ’n uitstekende ekotoksikologie en omgewingsprofiel. Hierdie eienskappe maak Cyazypyr® ’n waardevolle element van geïntegreerde beheer van plae, versoenbaar met plaagbestuursprogramme (IPM). Afhangende van plaaslike gewasstelsels en tydelike plaagvoorkoms, kan Cyazypyr® óf as ’n grondtoedie-

ning (voor-oorplanting deurdrenk) of deur drupbesproeiing toegedien word.

Cyazypyr® is deel van Groep 28 volgens die IRAC-klassifikasieskema. Danksy die unieke manier van werking op suigende plae, het die produk gelyke prestasie teen vatbare en weerstandbiedende plaagbevolkings getoon. Laboratoriumdata toon dat Cyazypyr® nie beïnvloed word deur weerstandsmeganismes wat bekend is dat dit weerstand teen ander insekdoders verleen nie.

Die insekdoder bind aan ryanodine-reseptore wat in insekspiere voorkom. Die aktivering van daardie reseptore veroorsaak die vrystelling en uitputting van intrasellulêre kalsium, wat lei tot spiersametrekking en verlamming. Vergiftigingsimptome sluit in vinnige voedingstaking, algemene lusteloosheid, verlamming en uiteindelike plaagsterftes. Hierdie kenmerke help om direkte gewasskade te voorkom en vertraag die oordrag van sommige plantvirus- en bakteriële patogene wat deur blaaspootjies en Hemiptera-plae soos witvlieë of plantluise versprei word.

Met al die voordele van Cyazypyr® bied langwerkende Circaden® 200 SC ‘n unieke aksie wat insekgedrag doeltreffend beïnvloed deur spierfunksie te benadeel. Insekte hou vinnig op om te voed, wat uitstekende plantbeskerming tot gevolg het. Boonop het Circaden® 200 SC ‘n gunstige omgewingsprofiel en is ideaal vir IPM-programme.

Om meer uit te vind oor hoe Circaden® 200 SC insekbeheer die groeikragtigheid van gewasse kan verhoog vir sterker, gesonder plante met beter gehalte en groter opbrengste, besoek die FMC-webwerf by www.ag.fmc.com/za/en of kontak die naaste FMC-areabestuurder.

Circaden® 200 SC Reg. Nr. L11488, Wet Nr. 36 van 1947, bevat syantraniliprool (antraniliese diamied) – 200 g/L (Cyazypyr), waarskuwing, skadelik indien ingeasem, baie giftig vir waterlewende organismes met langdurige effekte.

FMC Chemicals (Edms) Bpk, Posbus 44, Postnet Menlyn, Waterkloof Glen 0181, Suid-Afrika.

CIRCADEN® 200 SC en Cyazypyr® is handelsmerke van FMC Corporation of sy filiale.

Breëspektrum

Insekbeheer vir

Groeikragtige Gewasse

Nuwe generasie CIRCADEN ® 200 SC insekbeheer van FMC bied breëspektrum beheer in gewasse teen skadelike insekte waaronder belangrike spesies witvlieg, plantluise, blaaspootjies, bladmyners en Lepidoptera CIRCADEN ® 200 SC verbeter gewasvestiging in gewasse soos tamaties, soetrissies en kool deur vroeë seisoen grondtoediening tydens plant of oorplant (saailinglaai deurdrenk of drupbesproeiing). Langwerkende CIRCADEN® 200 SC lewer ‘n unieke aksie wat insekgedrag beïnvloed deur spierfunksie te benadeel. Insekte hou vinnig op om te voed, wat uitstekende plantbeskerming tot gevolg het. Boonop het CIRCADEN® 200 SC ‘n gunstige omgewingsprofiel en is ideaal vir IPM-programme. Verhoog die groeikragtigheid van jou groente- en vrugtegewasse vir sterker, gesonder plante, beter gehalte en groter opbrengste.

Kontak jou naaste FMC-areabestuurder om meer uit te vind oor die talle voordele van CIRCADEN® 200 SC insekbeheer.

CIRCADEN® 200 SC Reg. Nr. L11488, Wet Nr. 36 van 1947, bevat siantraniliprool (antraniliese diamied) – 200 g/L (Cyazypyr), waarskuwing, skadelik indien ingeasem, baie giftig vir waterlewe met langdurige effekte.

FMC Chemicals (Edms) Bpk, Posbus 44, Postnet Menlyn, Waterkloof Glen, 0181, Republiek van Suid-Afrika. CIRCADEN® 200 SC en Cyazypyr® is handelsmerke van FMC Corporation of sy affiliate.

www.ag.fmc.com/za/en

Clubroot is threatening brassica production

Clubroot is a devastating disease, affecting brassica crops worldwide, which includes South Africa. In recent years the disease has spread across South Africa and is affecting brassica growers in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Gauteng. Although clubroot-affected areas in South Africa are still a small percentage, worldwide it affects an estimated 10% of all brassicas being cultivated.

Clubroot is caused by a pathogen known as Plasmodiophora brassicae, a single-cellular organism. It causes stunted growth, wilting of the leaves, and root malformation with hard swellings. It can reduce yields drastically.

The potential of using cultural practices to reduce the spreading of the disease and prevent crop losses, is limited. The use of clubroot resistant varieties is currently the best strategy at hand to protect the crop against the disease and achieve a reliable yield.

Syngenta has successfully bred reliable resistance against clubroot since 2005 on cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower. This trait provides intermediate resistance to most races of clubroot on brassica crops. This resistance is known as TopRes™

TopRes™ resistance is effective against the predominant races, Pb:0 and Pb:1, and against the less frequent race Pb:3.

Varieties that are commercially available in South Africa are performing well in clubroot affected areas and provide a higher yield under disease pressure when compared to varieties with no resistance.

Syngenta has the following varieties available that have the TopRes™ resistance:

Broccoli Mclaren F1

Cauliflowers

Cleozil F1

Clarify F1

Claforsa F1

White cabbage Kilaherb F1

Syngenta is constantly developing improved varieties against clubroot on broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. For more information, contact Syngenta’s South Africa offices, Tel: +27 (11) 541 4000 or visit www.syngenta.co.za

An example of a clubroot affected plant at early stage.

On the left a clubroot resistant variety compared to a susceptible variety.

Cauliflower clubroot FR 01.

Selecting the right cabbage variety for the right season

Many factors can influence the success of a cabbage crop. Choosing the right variety for the right season is always the first step that cabbage producers must consider.

In the good old days, the cabbage varieties available from seed companies were limited and the disease pressure in the field was not that high. Today, temperature fluctuations pose a big risk for cabbage producers. Frost can occur in autumn, winter and spring, and black rot (Xanthomonas) disease pressure in the summer has become a general problem.

The fact that there is a wide range of cabbage varieties available today that can be planted in various time slots, is good news for the cabbage producer.

Sakata’s extensive cabbage range makes it easy for the

Accord

cabbage producer to be able to plant cabbage right through the year. A guideline (Figure 1) will ensure that the producer can plant the right variety in the right time slot.

Optima

This market-leading cabbage variety can be transplanted in the summer months after the danger of frost has passed. Optima has intermediate resistance to black rot and exceptional heat tolerance to give a good cut percentage in the summer season.

Powerslam

Powerslam is a new addition to the Sakata range that is ideally suited to summer growing conditions, because of its intermediate resistance to black rot and good heat tolerance. It is a versatile cabbage that can be used for different markets and production areas.

Accord*

Sakata’s brand-new cabbage variety, Accord* is a very good and reliable variety for the winter slot. Accord* can handle the cold very well and is very slow to bolt. Bolting in cabbages usually occurs close to spring when the temperature fluctuation is high.

Superslam

The popularity of Superslam is growing exponentially year on year because of its potential size and the fact that it grows well in cold conditions. It is ideal to transplant from February to April in the biggest cabbage production areas.

Conquistador

Optima

Conquistador II*

Sakata recently launched a new and improved Conquistador variety. The well-known Conquistador has always been a reliable cabbage, ideal for transplanting in cold to hot conditions and growing in the cold. The new Conquistador ll* can be planted in a variety of different seasons throughout the year and performs exceptionally well when transplanted in August and September.

It is important to note that the behaviour of the various cabbage varieties can vary in different locations. It is therefore advisable to contact the local sales representative who knows his/her area best. Also note that the transplanting dates dif-

fer from the sowing dates – the transplanting date is approximately six weeks after sowing has been done by the seedling nursery.

*Experimental: This variety does not appear on the current South African Variety list, but has been submitted for registration.

DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is based on Sakata’s observations and/ or information from other sources. As crop performance depends on the interaction between the genetic potential of the seed, its physiological characteristics, and the environment, including management, Sakata gives no warranty express or implied, for the performance of crops relative to the information given nor do Sakata accept any liability for any loss, direct or consequential, that may arise from

Figure 1. A guideline to plant the right variety in the right time slot.

MACADAMIA orchard management hints

In macadamia production, the beginning of the year is generally associated with preparations for harvesting and protecting new root flush and protecting the nuts. While nut size does not increase significantly, oil content increases and leaf flush appears.

SAMAC

The beginning of the year is generally associated with shell hardening and oil accumulation as the macadamia nut develops to maturity. During this period, nut size does not increase significantly, and oil content increases during January and February and stabilises from March onwards. Root growth starts to increase steadily in February, and typically peaks during late February and the beginning of March. A small leaf flush in early to mid-January is followed by a larger flush in the middle of March.

Management is focused on cleaning under trees in preparation for harvesting, ensuring logistics around harvesting are finalised and protecting nuts from damage by pests and diseases, especially stink bugs. Logistics include that harvest equipment is clean, in working order, and necessary spare parts are on-hand and seasonal workers available.

During this period, a new root flush is produced and fine feeder roots should be protected by mulching. Mulch will also counter weed growth, which reduces the amount of herbicide that will be needed. Continue with irrigation and fertilization schedules as recommended by a technical advisor. Be mindful that irrigating with micro-sprinklers when there are nuts on the orchard floor can stimulate germination of the nuts.

PREPARING FOR HARVESTING

A clean orchard floor ensures that growers maximise the return on investment during the whole season – it must be seen to be able to pick it up. Do not disturb the composted mulch, only remove rough organic material that can conceal nuts on the orchard floor. Leaves under Beaumont trees which will be subject to ethephon treatment should not be removed. In bearing orchards weeds are removed as this hampers harvesting, and herbicides can be used to control regrowth.

Remove any “old” and immature nuts from the orchard floor to ensure they are not mixed with the current season’s nuts. This is especially important in orchards with nut borer infestations. These “old” nuts can introduce fungi and insects to “new”, healthy nuts, and can lower the peroxide value and shelf life of “new” nuts if mixed. Ensure that there are enough containers and/or bags for the nuts.

HARVESTING

Be present in the orchard during harvesting and keep good records of harvesting progress (block number, date, quantity, cultivar etc). Perform maturity tests before stripping cultivars, especially those that do not drop their nuts naturally. Mature

nuts should not remain on the orchard floor for more than two weeks; harvest nuts every week, or at least every second week. If ethephon is used, nuts can be harvested as soon as they drop to the ground. Aim to harvest nuts while the husks are still green.

Ensure to harvest at a rate that ensures that the capacity of drying bins is not exceeded. Limit the number of nuts that remain in the orchards after every round of harvesting as this will ensure that quality remains high and prevent nuts from serving as reservoirs for fungi and insects. Harvested nuts should be dehusked as soon as possible, preferably on the same day. Harvested nuts should not be kept in plastic bags for more than 12 hours, and preferably in the shade.

PESTS AND DISEASE

From February onwards, the population numbers of natural enemies increase, and attention should be paid to the use of softer chemicals during or before this time. Pesticides with a narrow spectrum or a short residual action should preferably be used as they will provide existing natural enemies with the best opportunity to regulate populations of pests, especially those of stink bugs.

Stink bugs

Stink bugs reside in orchards during winter and are generally found in the top third of macadamia trees during nut development. Nuts become very attractive for stink bugs during the oil accumulation phase and remain attractive up to early winter (mid-June).

Monitor maturity and if nuts in an orchard are mature, harvest as soon as possible as the two spotted as well as other stink bugs such as the yellow-edged bug can penetrate the hard shell and feed on the kernel before harvest. There are generally two methods used to scout for stink bugs, namely chemical knock-down and live scouting.

Randomly select data trees from the previous afternoon and place the plastic sheeting out, covering at least 80% of the drip zone. Anchor corners of sheets with rocks or pegs to ensure that the sheet is not blown away by the wind. Because these insects have a clustered distribution in the orchards, it is suggested that new trees be used during each successive scouting operation.

Spray early in the morning before sunrise or when temperatures are still lower than 18 °C. Keep the time after the spray to the collection of the bugs constant so that insect populations can be properly compared between successive weekly monitoring intervals. Practically an hour is recommended. Col-

lect all bugs - immature and mature - and differentiate between coconut bugs, short-mouth, and long-mouth bugs.

Please note that Dichlorvos is no longer registered for monitoring in macadamias. No new products have been registered and it is suggested to use one of the registered contact insecticides. The knockdown ability of these products should not be as good as Dichlorvos. Growers are therefore cautioned to make provision for this during their weekly scouting sessions.

Record all egg packets on the main stems of each data tree and indicate if they are parasitised (black) or alive (white). Threshold: Average of 0,4 stink bugs per tree over 10 trees.

Live scouting

Inspect at least four observation points on random data trees, including the main stem and lower branches, weekly during nut development stage 4 for egg packets of the two-spotted stink bug. Differentiate between parasitised or viable egg packets. Kill viable eggs by hand after recording. Fresh eggs are green-orange and can be parasitised by beneficials. There are usually 14 eggs in the two-spotted stink bug egg packet.

Sucking bugs can also be scouted in the orchards (preferably young orchards) by branch shaking and visual observation. Shake at least four branches to dislodge stink bugs onto a ground cover. Place a plastic sheet or similar type of lining on the orchard floor to facilitate easy collection of dislodged sucking bugs (which includes stink bugs and mosquito bugs), nymphs and adults. The lining should cover at least 80% of the tree drip zone.

Nut borers

The nut borer complex is a group of moths. Nut borers lay eggs on the nut husks, usually nut development stage C-D, and mostly at 1,5 – 2,5 cm nut in husk diameter. The larvae that hatch from the egg feed a tunnel in the husk. Larval feeding may cause poor embryo (kernel) development, resulting in premature nut drop, immature kernel, or kernel damage. The final instars of the nut borer life stage normally drop to the ground to pupate in the organic matter or soil, but pupae have also been seen in or on the husk. Moths emerge from pupae, mate, and lay eggs again.

• Moth numbers are monitored on a sticky liner inside a delta trap loaded with pheromones that attract the male moths.

• The number of nut borer males on the sticky liners is counted from separate traps for different species.

• Weekly trap inspections give an indication of moth flight peaks which provides an idea of mating and egg laying. Scouting for nut borer eggs and holes in husks is important.

• From mid-January onwards, larvae feeding inside the husk sever vascular bundles connecting the nut to the tree.

• These nuts will drop prematurely (Jan–Feb) and should be floated to quantify maturity before delivery to the factory. This is important if the orchard has a history of moth infestation or in the case of known susceptible cultivars (816, 788, and most hybrids except Beaumont and 791).

• During this time no or very little nut abortion should occur Count all aborted nuts under each data tree and record it on the scouting sheet or the hand-held device (important).

Thrips and other secondary pests

Hot, dry conditions elicit thrips population increases. Many of

MAKADAMIA

South Africa’s production regions experience a mid-summer drought during January which also coincides with a leaf flush. If thrip numbers warrant control during this time, always consider the softest approach first. Thrips are widely regarded as repercussions or secondary pests because population flare-ups are often associated with repeated application of certain broadspectrum insecticides. When the natural enemies are absent, secondary pests like thrips, aphids, and mealy bug numbers increase. Negative impacts to look for include raceme damage, nut drop or the loss of leaf flushes which in turn might lead to reduced carbohydrate reserves stored in the plants.

• Monitor thrips, especially on new vegetative leaf flushes of 816 and A4 cultivars.

• Scout for thrips using an A4 black beating sheet, counting the number of larvae and adults after tapping the plant part 5 times on the sheet.

• When the growth tips are monitored, ensure that only a new flush is selected. This method is suggested to gather data that is comparable between successive weeks and seasons.

• Monitor when it is cool as adults will very quickly fly away during warm conditions after being temporarily knocked down.

• Citrus thrips are the main thrips species on macadamias in South Africa.

Felted coccid, branch dieback and bark borers

Macadamia Felted coccid and bark borer beetle numbers beetles should increase significantly from the end of January but initial infestations normally already occur during early December. Be vigilant for possible infestations, especially in the Barberton/Nelspruit/White River areas. MFC, bark borers and branch dieback occur simultaneously in some instances due to severe physiological stress induced by the MFC.

Note the following:

• MFC infestations are often characterised by leaves initially dying inside the tree canopy. Some leaves have yellow speckles on the dorsal (upper) side. Branches may be affected in advanced stages of infestation with MFC.

• Branch dieback is often associated with leaves initially dying from the tips of uppermost branches and leaves appearing to have lost their sheen (dull green). Branches may be affected, and a blue-ish discolouration may be present in vascular bundles if branches are cut.

• The general decline of a tree as above but with sawdust present around the base of the trees is associated with bark borers. Upon closer inspection, small holes will be visible and sometimes matchstick-like projections consisting of compacted wood powder (frass) may be present.

Phytophthora

The presence of stem cankers (vertical bark cracks and gumming) and dieback are indicative of Phytophthora infections. Growers should always use registered plant protection products and be mindful of pre-harvest intervals (PHIs) and maximum residue limits (MRLs). Although tree phenology is linked to the calendar, it is important to remember that tree phenology is determined by climatic factors, thus some variation in the timing can be expected.

New technologies on display at AmberMacs macadamia expo

The third AmberMacs macadamia expo was recently held at AmberMacs in White River in Mpumalanga. More than 180 exhibitors, exhibited their products and technology to a host of local and international visitors.

According to Philip Moufarrige, managing director of AmberMacs, there were a lot of new exhibitors and a lot of new and interesting technologies on display.

Moufarrige said, “Over the past years macadamia prices have fallen by about 60% due to lockdowns in China and America. The exciting news is that it is picking up again with exports going into China and new markets like India opening up. India is one of the biggest importers of Almond nuts in the world. They are not even aware of the nutrition of macadamias. India has a bigger population than China and they are now very interested in macadamia and the snacking culture.”

The expo showcased a lot of new technologies, one of the interesting exhibitors had huge drone technology, something that is being used more and more in the production of macadamia. Moufarrige added that there are a lot of technologies that help with optimising the input of fertilizer and pesticides which is one of the biggest cost obstacles faced by producers.

There was also a huge array of new snacking innovations. AmberMacs developed macadamia milk, cheese, and mayonnaise that is 100% vegan and can be used in an array of dishes. One of the producers that use AmberMacs for processing and husking has developed his own personal range of products that include liqueurs and snacking options.

One of the highlights of the expo was the keynote speech by nationally renowned economist Dawie Roodt, who shared his 30 years of expertise in economics. Roodt gave an overview of South African economics to a hall filled with eager expo visitors. Roodt, the founder, director, and chief economist of the

Efficient Group, serves on a variety of investment committees within it. His latest role is that of chairperson of Efficient Private Clients, of which the Efficient Group is the majority shareholder.

He specialises in monetary and fiscal policies and is currently doing extensive research on the possible impact of cryptocurrencies on monetary policy.

Giraf Macadamia Drink exhibited at the expo, here are Lize Roets, Joy Gullie and Lindria Lategan. Nico Engelbrecht from Kelpak.

Dawie Roodt the founder, director, and chief economist of the Efficient Group and Philip Moufarrige, managing director of AmberMacs,

Die Beste Wetenskap vir die Beste Uitkoms

STAATMAKER VALSKODLINGMOTBEHEER WAT SO SLIM SOOS JY WERK.

Vir die boer kom elke seisoen met ’n lys van uitdagings. Gewasbeskerming moet egter nie een van die bekommernisse wees nie. Dit is hoekom ons Coragen® insekbeheer ontwikkel het; een van die mees gevorderde produkte vir insekbeheer in die wêreld. Om slim te werk het nou baie makliker geword danksy die vinnige en lang nawerkende Valskodlingmotbeheer in sitrus. Coragen® insekbeheer bied ’n unieke metode van werking met ’n uitstekende toksikologiese- en omgewingsprofiel. Die nuwe wapen in die geïntegreerde beheer arsenaal teen Valskodlingmot en beter vrugkwaliteit verlaag die risiko van afkeurings vir uitvoervrugte na die meeste uitvoermarkte. Beter gewasbeskerming en bewaring van voordelige insekte – dit is mos wat elke sitrusboer wil hê. Kontak jou naaste FMC-handelaar om meer uit te vind oor Coragen® insekbeheer.

CORAGEN®

www.ag.fmc.com/za/en

South African apple and pear industry set to bounce back in 2024

South African pome fruit producers are looking forward to exports bouncing back. This, is on the back of a lower pome fruit export crop due to hail damage in some of the major fruit-producing areas during 2023.

The 2024 harvest season is already in full swing, a week to 10 days earlier than last season, with indications that we can expect promising apple export volumes and a slightly below average pear export crop. This was largely influenced by a good, cold, and wet winter with more favourable weather conditions impacting positively on fruit production.

Apple export volumes are anticipated to increase by 7%, mainly due to young orchards coming into production coupled with more favourable weather conditions. Bi-red apples such as Gala (+5%), Cripps Red (+11%), and Bigbucks (+33%) are expected to drive the bulk of the volume increase. There is also a positive outlook on Pink Lady volumes which is anticipated to increase by 8%, following the trend of the last few seasons.

The pear export estimate on the other hand indicates a more moderate outlook with a volume increase of 1% on last season’s volumes. Abate Fetel volumes are expected to decrease by -3% due to the earlier harvest and some frost damage. Packham’s Triumph volumes are anticipated to remain the same as last season whereas the summer blushed pears such as Cheeky, Celina, and Rosemarie are expected to slightly increase.

From a logistic standpoint, ports remain the most direct challenge to the sustainability of our producers. The industry is in constant communication with the relevant state-owned enterprises to ensure a dependable and punctual supply of our tasty produce.

South African rooibos tea triumphs in China

The South African Government celebrates a significant breakthrough as China announced a substantial reduction in tariff rates on imports of South African Rooibos tea, positioning it as a market game-changer.

Rooibos tea, renowned globally, received a dedicated tariff code at the World Customs Organisation (WCO) following South Africa's initiative. China, a key player in the tea market, slashed previous tariffs of between 15% and 30% on Rooibos to a mere 6%, effective.

South Africa's Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Ebrahim Patel, initiated discussions with China's Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao, in 2023. This resulted in a reclassification of Rooibos tea under the new tariff code HS 1211.90.39, significantly benefiting South African exporters.

The Rooibos Council reports that this move, impacting around 20 000 tonnes of annual production, will generate employment for over 5 000 people. China, ranking as the sev-

enth-largest market for South African Rooibos in 2023, is set to witness increased availability. - Statement by the DTIC.

Biologiese staatmakers in weerstandsbestuur

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as ‘n biologiese insekdoder berus op die werking van Cry-proteïene en spore. Cry-proteïene, wat deur bakterie vervaardig word, perforeer die teiken-larf se ingewande en dit lei tot ernstige intestinale skade. Larwes wat Bt ingeneem het, staak voeding binne minute. Sporulasie van Bt-spore en besmetting deur ander mikrobes binne die geperforeerde ingewande lei tot mortaliteit.

Soos met enige insekplaagbeheerstrategie, is doeltreffende weerstandsbestuur baie belangrik in die gebruik van Bt-produkte. Weerstand ontwikkel as gevolg van individue binne die teiken-insekbevolking wat oor weerstandsgene teen die werking van Cry-toksienes beskik, en dit oordra na opvolggenerasies.

Verskillende Bt-subspesies produseer ooreenstemmende, maar ook verskillende soorte Cry-proteïene. Die soort en konsentrasie van Cry-proteïene is afhanklik van die genetiese potensiaal waaroor verskillende rasse van spesies en subspesies beskik. Bt kurstaki-subspesies (bv. DiPel® DF) produseer Cry1Aa, Cry1Ab, Cry1Ac en Cry2Aa. Florbac® WG (Bt aizawai) verskil van DiPel® DF in die opsig dat Florbac® WG Cry1Ca en Cry1Da produseer wat nie in DiPel® DF voorkom nie. Deur beide subspesies in ‘n spuitprogram te posisioneer word ‘n

uitstekende weerstandstrategie ingestel.

Philagro SA bied toegang tot DiPel® DF (Bt kurstaki) en Florbac® WG (Bt aizawai) wat doeltreffendheid en weerstandsbestuur bevoordeel. Gebruik Florbac® WG as deel van die insekplaagbeheerspuitprogram om die voordele van die aizawai-subspesie te ontsluit.

Kontak gerus die naaste Philagro-agent vir meer inligting of produkbestuurder Jaco Marais by 072 390 3547

RAADPLEEG DIE ONDERSKEIE ETIKETTE VOLLEDIG VOOR GEBRUIK.

DiPel® DF (Reg. nr. L6441 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 32 000 IE/mg Bacillus thuringiensis var kurstaki. Hierdie produk is nie geklassifiseer as gevaarlik volgens GHS nie. Florbac® WG (Reg. nr. L5531, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 15 000 IE/mg Bacillus thuringiensis var aizawai. Waarskuwing. Veroorsaak ernstige oogirritasie. Skadelik vir waterlewende organismes. Florbac® WG en DiPel® DF is die geregistreerde handelsmerke van Valent BioSciences, VSA.

Philagro Suid-Afrika (Edms) Bpk l Reg. nr.: 98/10658/07

PostNet Suite #378, Privaatsak X025, Lynnwoodrif 0040

Pretoria: 012 348 8808 l Somerset-Wes: 021 851 4163

www.philagro.co.za

PRODUKTE WAT WERK VAN MENSE WAT OMGEE

Maak Florbac® WG deel van die insekplaagbeheerspuitprogram om die voordele van die aizawai-subspesie te ontsluit.

Unieke chemie. Unieke voordele. SumiPleo®

SumiPleo® word reeds wyd vertrou as effektiewe alternatiewe chemie vir weerstandsbestuur van Lepidoptera plae in S.A. Beheer van Aartappelmot en Tuta absoluta in aartappels, Afrika bolwurm en Tuta absoluta in tamaties, Ruitrugmot in koolgewasse asook Afrika bolwurm in blaarslaaisoorte is geregistreer. Registrasie vir die beheer van Herfskommandowurm (Spodoptera frugiperda), ’n indringerplaag op mielies en suikermielies is ook nou verkry. ’n SumiPleo® spuitprogram, geteiken teen aartappelmot en tamatie blaarmyner op aartappels, sal ‘n vermindering in skade vanaf Liriomyza huidobrensis en Liriomyza trifolii tot gevolg hê. Met SumiPleo® in ‘n spuitprogram teen Afrika bolwurm en Tamatie blaarmyner op tamaties, kan ‘n vermindering in skade vanaf Liriomyza trifolii en Chrysodeixis acuta verwag word.

VERSTANDIGE KEUSE

• Unieke chemiese molekuul (dichloropropeen-derivaat), met ’n nuut geïdentifiseerde metode van werking wat nie met enige ander bestaande aktiewe bestanddeel gedeel word nie. Geen kruisweerstand met ander chemiese groepe is tans bekend nie.

• ’n Kontak- en maaginsekdoder in ’n emulgeerbare konsentraat-formulasie.

• SumiPleo® is aktief teen alle larvale instars. Kort ná inname (3 tot 4 uur) hou teiken-larwes op om te vreet.

• Dit het byna geen nadelige impak op voordelige organismes soos roofmyte, wespe, voordelige kewers, erdwurms of bestuiwers soos bye nie.

• ’n Kort onthoudingstydperk van drie dae by tamaties beteken volgehoue kapasiteit om beskerming teen teiken-insekte te bied.

• SumiPleo® benodig nie bykomende bevorderings- of kleefmiddels nie. Dit het uitstekende reënvastheidvermoë sodra die spuitmengsel op die teikenplant droog geword het.

• SumiPleo® is ideaal vir gebruik in GPB-strategieë. DiPel® DF en FlorBac® WG, Philagro SA se uitstaande Bacillus thuringiensis aanbiedings, maak uitstekende biologiese vennote met die gebruik van SumiPleo® Vir meer inligting oor SumiPleo®, gesêls vandag nog met jou naaste Philagro-agent of produkbestuurder, Jaco Marais - 072 390 3547.

RAADPLEEG DIE VOLLEDIGE ONDERSKEIE ETIKETTE VOOR GEBRUIK.

DiPel® DF (Reg. nr. L6441 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 32 000 IE/mg Bacillus thuringiensis var kurstaki. DiPel® DF is nie geklassifiseer as gevaarlik volgens GHS nie. Florbac® WG (Reg. nr. L5531 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 15 000 IE/mg Bacillus thuringiensis var aizawai. Waarskuwing. Veroorsaak ernstige oogirritasie. Skadelik vir waterlewende organismes. SumiPleo® (Reg. Nr. L8377 Wet. Nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 500 g/L piridaliel dichlorpropeen-derivaat. Gevaar. Mag dodelik wees indien ingesluk en in lugweg beland (aspirasiegevaar). Mag allergiese velreaksie veroorsaak. Veroorsaak oogirritasie. Mag slaperigheid of duiseligheid veroorsaak. Baie giftig vir waterlewende organismes met langdurige gevolge. DiPel® en FlorBac® is geregistreerde handelsmerke van Valent BioSciences, Libertyville, VSA. SumiPleo® is ‘n geregistreerde handelsmerk van Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan.

Pretoria:

Simposium bring nuwe denke in subtropiese vrugtebedryf

‘n Geleentheid soos die Subtropiese Kwekersvereniging (Subtrop) se bemarkingsimposium het ‘n geleentheid aan die 370 belanghebbendes geskep vir nuwe denke. Kundiges se lesings help om die toekoms in ‘n positiewe lig te sien, sê Subtrop se uitvoerende hoof, Derek Donkin. plan kan word.

Volgens statistiek wat hy met die opening van die simposium op Witrivier aangehaal het, verteenwoordig Subtrop ‘n bedryf wat jaarliks ongeveer 220 000 ton vrugte op sowat 26 700 ha produseer. Die jaarlikse waarde daarvan vir Suid-Arika is ongeveer R2,6 biljoen. Die bedryf verskaf werk aan sowat 25 000 mense op plase en in pakstore. Daar is ongeveer 500 kommersiële produsente in die bedryf met Subtrop as die sambreelliggaam vir avokado-, mango- en lietsjieprodusente.

Oesskattings meer in die kol met satelliete se hulp

Die projek waarin akkurater oesskattings in avokadoboorde met behulp van satelliete ondersoek word se belowende resultate kan daartoe lei dat hierdie tegnologie op groter skaal toegepas gaan word.

Tydens die Subtropiese Kwekersvereniging (Subtrop) se bemarkingsimposium het navorsers van Australië aanlyn verslag gedoen oor die loodsprojek op geselekteerde avokadoboerderye se boorde in Suid-Afrika.

Prof Andrew Robson en dr Moshiur Rahman sê akkurater oesskattings lewer voordele vir plaasbestuur en vir die bedryf. Op plaasvlak vergemaklik dit logistieke beplanning soos oesskedulering, werkersgetalle en die voorsiening van oestoerusting. Na oes kan verwerking, verpakking en opberging daarby baat vind. Vir die bedryf beteken akkurater oesvoorspellings dat bemarking en uitvoervolumes en -bestemmings beter be-

Die projek word deur die sentrum vir afstandswaarneming in landbou van die universiteit van New England in samewerking met die Suid-Afrikaanse Avokadokwekersvereniging uitgevoer. Met een van die navorsingsmodelle is nege plase met 257 avokadoboorde getoets. Oesskattings is moontlik wanneer inligting oor minstens die voorafgaande vier seisoene van ‘n boord beskikbaar is.

Op agt van die nege plase in Suid-Afrika waar oesskattings gemaak is, was die sukseskoers meer as 90%. Op plaasvlak was die akkuraatheid tussen 82,3% en 99,1%.

Voordele van afstandswaarneming is dat vrugte aan bome nie fisies getel hoef te word nie, die opbrengs kan reeds maande voor oestyd bereken word en plaasmodelle kan in ‘n kort tyd saamgestel word.

Produsente van Kiepersol: Steven en Arno Hearne van Coysters en André Bam.

Shana Evans (FFG Tzaneen), Esmarie Verwey van Sunreap en Jeanette Mynhardt (FFG).

ISUBTROP BEMARKINGSIMPOSIUM

Uitvoersukses met lietsjies na VSA

n teenstelling met die wedywering van lietsjievoorsiening aan markte in die Europese Unie en wisselende pryse, geniet Suid-Afrikaanse uitvoerders ‘n vaste prys en groot toename in volumes aan markte in die VSA. In die 2022-seisoen is 895 ton lietsjies na die VSA uitgevoer, die meeste daarvan per see.

Bernd Julicher van Agrilink wat in die uitvoer van vars produkte per lug en see spesialiseer, het by die Subtropiese Kwekersvereniging (Subtrop) se bemarkingsimposium die suksesverhaal van lietsjie-uitvoer na die VSA uiteengesit.

Van 2016 tot 2019 het Agrilink die lietsjies slegs per vliegtuig na die VSA uitgevoer. In 2016 is 53 ton deur twee uitvoerders na twee invoerders geneem. Dit het jaarliks toegeneem totdat 895 ton in 2022 uitgevoer is, waarvan 268 ton per vliegtuig en 627 ton per boot.

Die sukses kan aan verskeie faktore toegeskryf word, sê Julicher. Dit is onder meer weens doeltreffende kommunikasie tussen alle betrokkenes, die ervaring van rolspelers soos die produsente, personeel wat logistiek en verpakking behartig en om deurentyd die beste gehalte en prosesse te gebruik.

Wanneer enige probleme opgeduik het, het dit onmiddellike aandag en regstelling geniet en die invoerders se behoeftes is dadelik nagekom, ook deur produsente en verpakkers. Julicher het onder meer vertel dat die invoerders verpakkings van 4,5 kg soos met ander vrugte verkies het, die sogenaamde ten pounders. In 2022 is verpakkings van 2 kg beproef wat groot aanpassings deur produsente en verpakkers vereis het.

Behalwe dat Agrilink se betrokkenes “ware kampioene” is, glo die maatskappy aan ‘n konserwatiewe benadering en ‘n beginsel van eenvoud. Hulle is ook dankbaar vir die die SA Lietsjiekwekersvereniging en Subtrop se harde werk en die samewerking van die departement van landbou, grondhervorming en landelike ontwikkeling.

In die kort seisoen waarin lietsjies as ‘n nisproduk beskikbaar is en voorsien word, word gespesialiseerde invoerders gebruik wat veral Oosterse inwoners in woonbuurte van megastede soos New York bedien. Slegs groothandelaars

word gebruik wat die lietjies in hulle winkels herverpak volgens verbruikers se behoeftes. As ‘n nisproduk vir spesifieke verbruikers word die lietsjies nie in groot winkels en winkelgroepe se rakke bemark nie.

Die Mexikaanse inwoners in Amerika ken lietsjies en hulle word ook tot voordeel van Suid-Afrikaanse uitvoerders as ‘n nismark bedien.

Julicher sê die uitvoerproses en suksesvolle verskaffing gaan met baie uitdagings gepaard. Om lietsjies per vliegtuig te vervoer is duur en die verpakkings moet daarvoor en volgens invoervereistes aangepas word. Palette moet herverpak word vir vereiste bestraling en alles moet in die kort lietsjiesiesoen plaasvind.

‘n Groot voordeel is die vaste seisoensprys in die VSA se mark, in teenstelling met die wedywering in die Europese mark waar produsente wat produkte die vroegste voorsien die beste pryse kry. Nog ‘n voordeel in die VSA se mark is dat die SuidAfrikaanse uitvoerders nie noemenswaardige mededinging het nie, maar dit plaas volgens Julicher ‘n groot verantwoordelikheid op Agrilink om nie die geleentheid te misbruik en die mark te oorlaai nie. Hulle laat groei die mark op ‘n verantwoordelike manier en probeer die bemarkingseisoen met nuwe kultivars rek tot ná die Chinese nuwejaar.

NA BLADSY 24

The World Focus Agri product range consists out of the following Soil Remediations;

Complex-range

Ultrafine Lime and Gypsum for easy application and rapid soil and plant availability. Packaging: 25kg, 1kg, 500g, 100g Foliar feeds.

Glio-range

Enhances

Arno le Grange, Llewellyn van Zyl en Raute Meintjes.

Verbruikers koop avokado’s doelgerig maar word nou anders beïnvloed

Goeie nuus vir die avokadobedryf is dat verbruikers nie meer avokado’s impulsief koop nie maar dit doelbewus doen en by beplande inkopies insluit. Boonop vereenselwig verbruikers avokado’s met voedingswaarde, gesondheid en smaaklikheid, sê Mariëtte Erasmus van die marknavorsingsmaatskappy Ask Africa.

In 2012 en selfs nog in 2016 het die meeste verbruikers avokado’s op ingewing gekoop. Dit reflekteer ‘n verandering van verbruikersgedrag dat meer as 68% verbruikers avokado’s nou volgens ‘n ingeligte besluit koop.

Ask Africa het in ‘n aanlyn-opname onder verbruikers 740 onderhoude gevoer en in sosiale media ‘n veldtog geloods om inligting oor avokado’s te bekom.

Tydens die Subtropiese Kwekersvereniging (Subtrop) se bemarkingsimposium het Erasmus gesê faktore wat aankope beïnvloed sluit prys, kwaliteit en beskikbaarheid in. Verbruikers is meer geneig om avokado’s te koop as dit bekostigbaar is.

Uit die navorsing blyk dit dat verbruikers nie avokado’s wat R10 kos vertrou nie en dit as te goedkoop beskou. Daarenteen word avokado’s wat tussen R36 en R40 kos as duur beoordeel en die wat duurder as R60 is as té duur. Volgens Erasmus blyk die optimale prysband russen R26 en R35 te wees.

Gegrond op die ervaring met ander produkte, ontstaan kopersweerstand wanneer ‘n prysverhoging met dubbelsyfers plaasvind. In 2023 se verbruikersopname het 51% verbruikers gesê hulle koop nie avokado’s nie weens die hoër prys.

Hoewel dit raadsaam is dat handelaars avokado’s beskikbaar stel wat ryp en gereed vir verbruik is, asook avokado’s wat tuis rypgemaak kan word, verkies die meeste verbruikers die vrug wat dadelik geëet kan word. Die meeste verbruikers (66%) is selfs bereid om meer te betaal wanneer die avokado’s eetgereed is.

Die bedryf se program om verbruikers te oorreed om nie avokado’s te druk nie blyk nog nie suksesvol te wees nie, want 60% verbruikers druk dit steeds om te “voel” of ‘n avokado ryp is. Dié gedrag word toegeskryf aan eetgereed avokado’s wat hard voel maar wat wel ryp is. Dit vereis ook dat avokado’s wel eetgereed moet wees as dit só op die verpakking bemark word.

Sover dit die voorkoms betref verkies die meeste verbruikers avokado’s met ‘n groen skil teenoor die met ‘n donker

kleur. Volgens Ask Africa se verbruikersopnames sedert 2019 verkies tussen 45% en 51% avokado’s met ‘n groen kleur. In dieselfde opnames het tussen 19% en 33% verbruikers die donker avokado’s verkies terwyl al hoe minder verbruikers ‘n voorkeur aan kleur gee.

Verpakkings van vier avokado’s is die gewildste, gevolg deur ‘n sakkie avokado’s wat 1 kg weeg en daarnaas ‘n verpakking met ses vrugte in. Verbruikers vind promosies in ‘n verpakking van twee avokado’s aanloklik. Hoewel minder, verkies sommige verbruikers steeds om ‘n enkele avokado te koop, veral diegene wat dit op die ingewing van die oomblik doen.

Verbruikersgedrag word in 2023 baie meer beïnvloed deur bekendes of smaakmakers se aanbiedings op sosiale media en deur fynproewers of ‘foodies’. Minder verbruikers maak van inligting uit tydskrifte, die internet en plaaslike koerante gebruik. Erasmus sê daar is ‘n voortdurende verandering van inligtingsbronne waarby bemarkers moet aanpas om ‘n boodskap by verbruikers te kry. Die meerderheid verbruikers is nou volgelinge van bekende persone en koskenners.

Een van Ask Africa se aanbevelings vir verhoogde aankope op grond van verbruikersgedrag is ‘n beloningsprogram of aandenkings, soos Spar en Checkers suksesvol onderneem het. Voorbeelde hiervan is sagte miniatuurspeelgoed, sleutelhouers, resepte en klein boekies met interessante of bruikbare inligting.

Francis Matthee, Carel Nieuwoudt (Betel Fruits), Steve Oosthuizen en Achmat Burgher, almal van Cape Fruits.

Verteenwoordigers van Limpopo se landboudepartement: Maite Malesa, Sylvia Nngobedi, Gladys Mutheiwana en Lerato Nenwedi.

Tshisikhwawe Rabambi van Vhembe saam met sy dogter, Masusu Mashavele.

Alan Whyte en Marcello Bubalo.

Bemarking pas voortdurend aan maar word nooit gestaak nie

Vir nuwe situasies moet innoverende en aanpasbare boodskappe, media en taktiek gebruik word, sê Glynnis Branthwaite van die kommunikasiemaatskappy Protactic. Weens dramatiese veranderinge in die medialandskap en die gewildheid van bekende persone word hulle sosiale platforms nou toenemend vir boodskappe aan verbruikers gebruik.

Protactic behartig die afgelope 24 jaar onder meer avokado’s en mango’s se plaaslike bemarking vir die Subtropiese Kwekersvereniging (Subtrop).

Aan die begin van ‘n kommunikasieveldtog word alle inligting versamel om ‘n strategie te bepaal, het sy tydens Subtrop se bemarkingsimposium gesê. Uit Protactic se strategie besluit hulle watter taktiek gebruik gaan word om ‘n boodskap aan teikengehore tuis te bring. Dit dien as ‘n padkaart om te besluit wanneer wát gedoen moet word en hóé dit moet plaasvind, sodat daar altyd ‘n avokado of mango by die verbruiker se inkopies sal wees.

Navorsing onder verbruikers speel ‘n groot rol om gedrag met aankope te bepaal en watter rol verskillende media hierin speel, soos sosiale media, televisie, internet en gedrukte boodskappe.

Branthwaite sê ‘n kommunikasiestrategie verander binne enkele maande of ‘n jaar en moet voortdurend aangepas word. Die medialandskap het dramaties verander en dit moet voortdurend gemonitor word. Hoewel ‘n strategie dieselfde kan bly, kan die wyse van kommunikasie elke seisoen verander

volgens die teikenmark se voorkeure. ‘n Strategie sluit in dat elke veldtog voortdurend gemonitor en gemeet word.

Uit navorsing is dit duidelik dat bemarkingsveltogte nie gestaak moet word wanneer dit finansieel moeiliker gaan of gedurende krisisse nie. Handelsmerke wat in sulke tye hul sigbaarheid en teenwoordigheid onder verbruikers voortgesit het, het steeds gegroei.

Vrugtebedryf laat sy stem by Brics hoor en help met hawens se krisis

Danksy die landbousakekamer Agbiz se pogings het administrasie om handel tussen Brics se ledelande te bevoordeel ‘n hupstoot gekry en kan omslagtige rompslomp waarskynlik verminder word. Dit kan selfs veroorsaak dat die tydperk om uitvoerprotokol na te kom met etlike jare verkort word, sê Wolfe Braude van Agbiz se vrugte-afdeling waarby die Subtropiese Kwekersvereniging (Subtrop) ook ingeskakel is.

Braude het tydens Subtrop se bemarkingsimposium verduidelik hoe landbousake ‘n rol gespeel het tydens die Bricslande se beraad in Suid-Afrika. Een van die sake wat die Suid-Afrikaanse werkgroep na die ledelande se gesamentlike sakelys vir landbou geneem het, was aansoeke vir uitvoerlande se sanitêre en fitosanitêre vereistes.

Suid-Afrika se versoek is dat aansoeke vir verskillende vrugte gesamentlik ingedien en beoordeel moet word, in plek van die huidige stelsel waar elke aansoek afsonderlik ingedien en behandel word en soms ‘n dekade lank duur om af te handel. Die voorstel word in 2024 verder in tegniese vergaderings

behandel en die bedryf glo dat dit die wagtyd met vier tot ses jaar gaan verkort.

Braude is hoopvol dat vertragings en opeenhopings by veral die hawens van Durban en Kaapstad verminder gaan word om nie net landbou nie maar talle ander Suid-Afrikaanse bedrywe te bevoordeel. Die landboubedryf het Transnet met verskeie inisiatiewe en voorstelle genader om haakplekke te identifiseer en oplossings te vind. Hiervoor word samewerking en befondsingsvoorstelle uit verskillende bronne van die privaatsektor betrek, tot voordeel van in- en uitvoer.

Braude glo as die implementering van dié voorstelle suksesvol is behoort die resultate so positief en sigbaar te wees dat vennootskappe wat nou gevorm word nie weer sal verval nie. ‘n Krisis soos in die afgelope uitvoerseisoene by hawens ondervind word was dalk nodig om oplossings te vind en in werking te stel. Hy ervaar ‘n groter openhartigheid en gewilligheid tot samewerking en om probleme te bespreek wat nie voorheen bestaan het nie.

Vhembe-produsente Walter Makhuva, Gilbert Nefale, Azwi Mafunzwaini en Sigunya Nyelisane.

Sakata celebrates a successful farmers’ day

Sakata Seed Southern Africa recently hosted clients and growers during their farmer's days. The event brought together growers from across the continent to see and experience everything Sakata has to offer.

The event was held over the expansion of a week and attracted an impressive turnout of about 700 visitors over the four days. Hosted every second year, the Farmer’s Days serves as an essential platform for Sakata to engage with visitors ranging from commercial to small-scale farmers, seedling growers,

processors, retailers, government officials, suppliers, as well as visitors from the Southern African Development Countries and East Africa.

At the heart of the event was the showcasing of Sakata's renowned and trusted varieties alongside its exciting, latest

Almari Haupt – Sakata’s Product Specialist: Leaf and root crops.

Jaco Erasmus – Sakata’s Product Specialist: Solanaceae crops.

Showcasing Sakata's renowned and trusted varieties alongside its exciting, latest developments.

developments. With a focus on introducing new varieties and educating visitors about the extensive product range, visitors were taken on a tour of Sakata’s trial fields with product specialists providing valuable insights into current and new varieties.

Among the highlights of the event were the unveiling of several new generation varieties, including Chaak*Southern Africa’s first F1 hybrid Habanero hot pepper, Powerslam* and Accord* - F1 hybrid cabbages, Mieluna* - a new F1 hybrid butternut, and Nairobi* - the latest addition to Sakata’s F1 hybrid cauliflower range.

From the professional flowers division, Sakata displayed flower varieties like the SunPatiens® Candy Series and Lisianthus, Alissa. Visitors were also introduced to the turf products that are sold under the MayFord brand, including LM (Berea), Kikuyu and new Sultan Cynodon grass. Notably, Sakata debuted its Biomosome® ecomatched veld grass seed mixes, further emphasising its commitment to sustainable solutions.

The 2024 Farmer’s Days event has been Sakata Seed SA’s most successful and significant event yet. Sakata remains dedicated to delivering quality, reliability, and service to customers, and events like this truly express their motto of passion in seed.

*Experimental: This variety does not appear on the current South African Variety list, but has been submitted for registration.

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.

- tree yield 18.6 kg Kelpak - 3 x 0.3% 20.1 kg

Kelpak - 5 x 0.2% 21.4 kg

Avokadoprodusente benut nuwighede vir groeiende bedryf

Avokadoprodusente moet bewus bly van die breër waarde van hulle werk. Die verbouing van hierdie kosbare vrug is nie net ‘n lewenswyse nie maar is ook ‘n belangrike bydraer tot voedselsekerheid, ekonomiese ontwikkeling en ‘n volhoubare omgewing in Suid-Afrika, sê die voorsitter van Suid-Afrika se avokadoprodusente, Edrean Ernst.

Met die opening van avokadokwekersvereniging (SAAKV) se navorsingsimposium van 2024 op Tzaneen het Ernst die produsente daaraan herinner dat hulle rentmeesters is. Hulle rentmeesterskap gaan verder as die versorging van die grond en avokado’s, dit behels hulle toewyding tot volhoubaarheid, omgewingsbewaring en die welsyn van gemeenskappe.

Met verwysing na die wêreldwye toenemende aanvraag na avokado’s en produsente se toegang tot nuwe markte, het Ernst gesê nuwe tegnologie, tegnieke en strategieë word

Maritha Schoeman en dr Schalk Schoeman, altwee van die LNR Tropiese en Subtropiese Gewasse, saam met Werner Muller van Amana-boerdery.

Kondi Munzhedzi (middel) van Subtrop saam met Kobus Eloff (links) van Du Roi Halls se kwekery en Bram Snijder, voorsitter van die SA Lietsjiekwekersvereniging.

Voeding vir avokado’s en grondgesondheid is deur ‘n paneel by die avokadoprodusente se navorsingsimposium bespreek. Die paneel het bestaan uit dr James Mehl van Subtrop as voorsitter, dr Danie Lemmer van ExperiCo, dr Aleysia Kleinert van die Universiteit van Stellenbosch, prof Elsa du Toit van die Universiteit van Pretoria en dr Akhona Mbatyoti van die LNR Tropiese en Subtropiese Gewasse.

ontgin vir volhoubaarheid en winsgewendheid oor die lang termyn.

Geleenthede soos die avokadokwekers se navorsingsimposium spoor vindingrykheid en vooruitgang in die bedryf aan. Hy het gewys op die verskeidenheid onderwerpe wat kundiges en paneelgroepe in die simposium bespreek. Dit lewer waardevolle insigte wat avokadoprodusente inlig en inspireer om die bedryf se uitdagings te oorkom. Die onderwerpe behels onder meer plaag- en siektebeheer, voeding en grondgesondheid, biotegnologie en opbrengsverbetering.

Oesskatting

Die oesskatting vir 2024 se avokado’s is 20 miljoen kartonne van 4 kg, sê Derek Donkin, uitvoerende hoof van die sambreelorgansiasie Subtrop. Dit sluit ongeveer 2 miljoen kar-

Avokadoprodusente by die navorsingsimposium: Ss Nyelisani, Matimba Macebele van die Mangepe-groep, Zebedius Maile van Bavaria Fruit en Kamohelo Mofokeng van die Mangepe-groep.

Die avokadokwekersvereniging se navorsingsimposium is by die Merensky Landbou-akademie op Tzaneen gehou. Ntdmiseni Tompson, Mankhili Khathushelo, Matika Sabina Mashavale en Emanuel Denga het dit bygewoon.

tonne van Mosambiek en Zimbabwe in wat deur Suid-Afrika uitgevoer word. Terwyl aanplantings teen sowat 800 ha per jaar in Suid-Afrika toeneem, beloop die huidige oppervlak van avokadoplantasies sowat 20 000 ha.

Donkin sê die gewildste kultivars vir uitvoer is Hass en die Hass-tipe. Sowat 75% van 2024 se uitvoer bestaan uit hierdie kultivars. Die oorblywende 25% is van die groenskilkultivars.

Uit navorsing met avokado’s is maniere gevind om opbrengste te verhoog terwyl die vrugkwaliteit behoue bly. Dié onderwerp is deur ‘n paneel bespreek, wat bestaan het uit Clarance Malapane as voorsitter, dr Velushka Swart van die Universiteit van Pretoria, prof Noëlani van den Berg van die Universiteit van Pretoria en dr Frans Kruger van Laeveld Na-oesdienste.

In 2023 is 18,6 miljoen kartonne avokado’s uitgevoer waarvan 1,7 miljoen uit Mosambiek en Zimbabwe gekom het.

Volgens 2023 se sensus van avokadoboorde in Suid-Afrika het boomverkope in die afgelope twee seisoene tot 915 446 bome gedaal maar na verwagting gaan dit in die 2023/24-seisoen tot 1,1 miljoen bome toeneem. Die gemiddelde produksie in die afgelope drie jaar was 139 400 ton waarvan sowat 45% na Europa en die Verenigde Koninkryk uitgevoer is.

Die toename in aanplantings is in ooreenstemming met die SAAKV en regeringsdepartemente se sukses om nuwe uitvoermarkte te kry. Na jare se onderhandelings en vestiging van protokolle is marktoegang tot China en Japan aan die einde van 2023 verkry. Klein hoeveelhede avokado’s kan volgens Donkin reeds in April en Mei na China en in Junie en Julie na Japan uitgevoer word. Die Chinese mark hou veral baie potensiaal in vir die uitvoer van Suid-Afrikaanse avokado’s.

Voordragte wat by 2024 se navorsingsimposium gelewer is, is beskikbaar op SAAGA se webtuiste by www.avocado.co.za

Why choose ACTARA®?

• Proven root and biomass growth stimulation*

• Fast acting. Hard on pests and soft on beneficials

• Systemic with quick uptake and even distribution through the plant

Make your crop a winner with ACTARA® in furrow treatment to control potato snout beetle and aphids

Roes kan knoffel, lente-uie en preie beskadig

WHP Boshoff, B Visser, CM Bender en ZA Pretorius DEPARTEMENT PLANTWETENSKAPPE, UNIVERSITEIT VAN DIE VRYSTAAT

Roes, veroorsaak deur swamspesies van die genus Puccinia, is lank reeds bekend op uiegewasse (Allium spesies) in Suid-Afrika (SA). Beide die roespatogene Puccinia allii en P. porri is in die 1940’s en 1950’s hier aangemeld, maar duidelike onderskeid tussen die twee spesies was voor die gebruik van DNS-tegnieke bykans onmoontlik. Onlangse roesbesmettings het die uitwerking van die siekte beklemtoon en aangedui dat meer inligting oor roesreaksies van Allium-spesies en kultivars waardevol vir produsente kan wees. Voorts was dit nodig om onsekerheid uit die weg te ruim oor watter roesspesie(s) die siekte in Suid-Afrika veroorsaak.

Vyf roesisolate is versamel van Japannese lente-uie (A. fistulosum) afkomstig uit die Wes-Kaap, Vrystaat en Gauteng. Met behulp van DNS-analise is al die isolate as Puccinia porri geïdentifiseer. Infeksiestudies is onder gekontroleerde glashuistoestande gedoen met 65 kultivars van sewe Allium spesies. Veertig ui- (A. cepa) kultivars was hoogs bestand teen al die isolate. Die twee uitsonderings was Lucinda wat ‘n intermediêre reaksie getoon het en Cristalina wat matig vatbaar was. Australian Brown en Texas Grano, en die erfenisvariëteit Long Red Firenze, het elk een vatbare plant gehad.

Tydens evaluasie van A. fistulosum was All Year Round Spring Onion, Slender Star en White Welsh vatbaar terwyl Japanese Single Stem ‘n mengsel van bestande en vatbare plante gehad het. Preie (A. porrum) soos Bulgarian Giant Leek was vatbaar en ander soos Carentan, Copenhagen Leek en Elephant Leek gemeng in hulle reaksie. Al 10 knoffelkultivars was vatbaar terwyl die sprietui- en salotkultivars geen tekens van die siekte getoon het nie.

By Petrusburg het roes in 2022 epidemiese afmetings op knoffel aangeneem en infeksies is ook algemeen op lente-uie

in die sentraal-Vrystaat waargeneem. Bo en behalwe die sporadiese voorkoms in die veld word roes ook soms opgemerk op lente-uie en preie in supermarkte. In baie gevalle hou die plastiekverpakking die inhoud vogtig wat bydra tot na-oes sporulering van die swam en die gevolglike onooglikheid van produkte.

Opeenvolgende produksie en gunstige toestande soos oorhoofse besproeiing of natter seisoene, matige temperatuur en vatbaarheid van kultivars dra by tot die aaneenlopende voorkoms van die swam in sekere produksiegebiede. Tipies van meeste roessiektes wat deur wind versprei word en vog nodig het om hul gasheerplante te infekteer, is hulle baie moeilik om te beheer as hulle wydverspreid voorkom, toestande gunstig bly en infeksievlakke te hoog raak. Die bestandheid van bol-uikultivars teen P. porri is goeie nuus vir uieprodusente. Dit strook ook met die afwesigheid van roes op A. cepa onder produksietoestande en is waarskynlik, volgens huidige inligting, toe te skryf aan die afwesigheid van P. allii in Suid-Afrika.

Produsente kan hul chemiese verteenwoordiger kontak omtrent geregistreerde swamdoders, riglyne vir toediening asook die voorgeskrewe tydsverloop tussen die laaste toediening en bemarking van varsprodukte.

Dit is belangrik om kennis te neem dat Puccinia porri nie op ander gasheerplante soos snotuie, ook bekend as slymstok of slymlelie, voorkom nie. Die roes op hierdie plant (Albuca maxima) word deur ‘n ander swam (Uromyces albucae) veroorsaak wat nie Allium spesies aanval nie.

Kontak Willem Boshoff Vir meer inligting by boshoffwhp@ ufs.ac.za of besoek https://doi.org/10.1007/s13313-02300960-6 vir die volledige artikel. Die navorsers bedank verteenwoordigers van Sakata Saad, Starke Ayres en Klein Karoo Saad vir die verskaffing van saad, vir die deel van produksieinligting asook waarnemings omtrent die voorkoms van roes op Allium-spesies in Suid-Afrika.

Ontgin die landboumark ten volle...

Maak gebruik van die spesialiste

UITGEWERS VAN:

Koringfokus / Wheat Focus: Die spesialistydskrif vir kleingraan in Suid-Afrika

Vegetables & Fruit / Groente & Vrugte: Ontgin alternatiewe moontlikhede in nismarkte

Subtrop Journal: Joernaal vir avokado-, mango- en lietsjiekwekers.

Navorsingsjoernaal:

SA Avokadokwekersvereniging (SAAGA)

SA Lietsjiekwekersvereniging (SALGA)

GAUTENG:

GAUTENG:

Using modern technology to simplify and enhance the fruit exportation process

First Technology is bridging the gap between one of the oldest industries in the world and the endless wonders of modern and emerging technology. Through infrastructure transformation and a seamless digital ecosystem of traditional and cloud-based offerings, our holistic range of industry-leading solutions offers tremendous flexibility and can be scaled to address the needs of both SMMEs and Large Enterprises.

Evolve your business and become a global competitor.

From warehouse modernisation and streamlining the exportation process, to automating governance and compliance procedures, our solutions will liberate your workforce from menial responsibilities, significantly cut down operational costs and provide your business with the ability to quickly adapt to market demands and needs.

Get in touch with Mandy McEvoy at mandym@firsttechnology.co.za or call us directly on 021 525 7000.