Vegetables & Fruit January/February 2024

SINCE 1988

JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

SA avos to be exported to China ingesluit) ander lande uitgesluit (Including VAT) other countries excluded No 217 R47,00 (BTW

TOMATO RANGE STAR 9037

STAR 9081

A COMPACT INDETERMINATE VARIETY WITH LARGE FRUIT AND SHORT INTERNODES

AN INDETERMINATE SALADETTE, GREENHOUSE OR OPENLAND VARIETY WITH EXCELLENT LARGE SIZE FRUIT OF VERY HIGH QUALITY

• Ability to keep fruit size to the top of the plant • Strong plants, uniform setting • Highly adaptable with stable performance • Very high yield potential

• Early maturing • Attractive shape and size • Ability to keep its size to the top

HR: Verticillium Wilt (Va, Vd), Fusarium Wilt (Fol 1, 2), Bacterial Wilt (Rs), Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV).

HR: Verticillium Wilt (Va, Vd), Fusarium Wilt (Fol 2), Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV)

IR: Root-knot Nematodes (Ma, Mi,Mj), Powdery Mildew (lt), Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV).

IR: Root-knot Nematodes (Ma, Mi,Mj).

RENKA

STAR 9065

AN INDETERMINATE VARIETY WITH A HIGH YIELD POTENTIAL FOR UNDER COVER PRODUCTION

A DETERMINATE SALADETTE TOMATO WITH EXCELLENT FRUIT QUALITY ON A HIGHLY DISEASE RESISTANT PLANT

• Uniform truss • Keeps size to the top • Good leaf cover

• Compact growth, with a very high yield • Extended bearing period • Very attractive shape and size • Unique disease resistance package

HR: Verticillium Wilt (Va, Vd), Fusarium Wilt (Fol 1, 2, 3), Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV).

HR: Verticillium Wilt (Va,Vd), Fusarium Wilt (Fol 1, 2), Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV).

IR: Root-knot Nematodes (Ma, Mi,Mj), Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV), Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus.

IR: Root-knot Nematodes (Ma, Mi,Mj), Bacterial Wilt (Rs), Powdery Mildew (Lt).

STAR 9011

STAR 9068

A DETERMINATE TOMATO HYBRID WITH AN OUTSTANDING FRUIT QUALITY

A DETERMINATE BLOCKY TYPE TOMATO WITH AN EXTENDED BEARING PERIOD

• High fruit quality • Small attachment, highly refined fruit • Excellent flavour and taste • Excellent disease resistant package

• Semi- Determinate growth • Extended bearing period • Acceptable shape and size • Idealy for the informal market

HR: Verticillium Wilt (Va, Vd), Fusarium Wilt (Fol 1, 2), Bacterial Wilt (Rs), Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV).

HR: Verticillium Wilt (Va,Vd), Fusarium Wilt (Fol 2), Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV).

IR: Root-knot Nematodes (Ma, Mi,Mj), , Powdery Mildew (lt), Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV).

IR: Root-knot Nematodes (Ma, Mi,Mj), Bacterial Wilt (Rs), Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV), (Ty-2).

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Edition 217

ISSN 1015-85 37

www.vegetablesandfruitmagazine.co.za

COVER The potato industry in South Africa can compete with the best in the world in terms of both yield and quality.

Potato producers in South Africa produce an average of 47 tonnes yearly.

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

NUUS NEWS

NEWS 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8

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Fresh produce business celebrates 130 years ARC participated in science forum South Africa Vertical farming: an entrepreneurial journey New community garden for food security Valtra is the power behind Rugani 100% carrot juice Empowering farmers through sustainable practices ARC saddened by passing of former president and CEO Fruit industry invests to ensure survival through loadshedding

TOMATOES

Besoek ons webtuiste | Visit our website: www.vegetablesandfruitmagazine.co.za

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9 10 12 14

Renka is the right indeterminate tomato variety High-quality tomato varieties Tomato nutrition: Always do it right, then a bit more Tomato viruses and the impact on production in South Africa

Groente & Vrugte | Vegetables & Fruit www.facebook.com/SAGroenteenVrugte

POTATOES

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Tien jaar vooruitskouing vir aartappels: Voorspoed is moontlik Unieke chemie en voordele vir aartappelmot Malroes: Beskerm die aartappeloes met hierdie slim praktyke

GENERAL 22 24 26 27

Na-oesbemesting, die sleutel tot toekomstige groei en opbrengs SA avos to be exported to China 2023 final citrus export figures lower than predicted Suid-Afrika se landbou-uitdagings: “Ons benodig ‘n nuwe bril”

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Kos begin by grond

VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARIE • FEBRUARIE 2024

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NUUS NEWS

NEWS

The Dutoit Group celebrated 130 years as a leader in South African agriculture.

Fresh produce business celebrates 130 years The Dutoit Group celebrated 130 years as a leader in South African agriculture. From Gysbertus du Toit settling on Kromfontein farm in the Western Cape to becoming one of the largest family owned fresh produce businesses, the company has a lot to celebrate.

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hrough innovation and dedication, Dutoit continues to thrive and has experienced continuous growth over the years, always prioritising customer satisfaction as well as both business and green integration.

Rooted in South Africa, Dutoit is a truly international brand with well-established and profitable alliances and capital investments globally. This not only complements their current activities but are important platforms and partnerships for future expansion when it comes to market access, product development and new technology.

Dutoit has almost 5 000 hectares of fruit and vegetables under irrigation in the lower altitude Warm Bokkeveld, the Berg River and Sandveld regions as well as in the Langkloof in the Eastern Cape, in addition to the original higher altitude Koue Bokkeveld region.

When it comes to vegetables, Dutoit Vegetables incorporates six farms, specialising in onions, potatoes and sweet potatoes. Annually, the business produces 50 000 tons of onions, 20 000 tons of potatoes, 8 000 tons of sweet potatoes, as well as shallots, pumpkins and fresh garlic.

“While there has been significant innovation and transformation in agriculture over the last 130 years, what has remained resolute is our mission to produce, pack, market and distribute quality fresh produce for our clients and customers,” says Willem Coetzee, Chief Operating Officer at Dutoit Agri.

Green integration and caring for the environment have become a key focus for Dutoit over the last few decades. Commitment to implementing innovative sustainable solutions, bio­diversity management, responsible use of natural resources, and the minimising and responsible handling of waste are key to their operations.

Operations within the Dutoit Group focus heavily on the long-term sustainable use of water, with the organisation having implemented infrastructural changes and the use of shortradius micro-sprinklers or drippers to use water effectively and

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with as little wastage and evaporation as possible. The health of the soil and maintaining a healthy soil ecosystem is also integral to their sustainable agricultural model.

In an effort to decrease food waste, Dutoit and Good Hope Fruit partnered with retailer Pick n Pay and launched the Hail to Heroes campaign, which promotes the merits of cosmetically blemished produce. With hail hitting the apple orchards multiple times affecting all apple varieties over the last months, most notably in November 2022 and again in February 2023, this campaign educates consumers that the inside of the apple is unaffected, even if there is a blemish or slight bruising on the skin. Hail to Heroes also creates jobs up and down the supply chain, positively impacting the economy and uplifting the local communities.

Locally, Dutoit Invest strives to unlock various opportunities in the secondary agricultural sector, specifically when it comes to the processing and preserving of fruit and vegetables, to improve productivity, profitability and sustainable production systems.

Another element to the company’s ongoing success is its passion for its people and producers. During peak harvesting season, Dutoit employs in excess of 8 000 workers, and is committed to the recruitment, training and development of the people who work on their farms, and to the surrounding communities.

“As a leading farming, packing, marketing and distribution enterprise, we recognise that our employees underpin the core of the business, and that it is our social responsibility to empower and support the people in the communities we operate in,” Coetzee says.

For decades already, Dutoit has developed productive partnerships with leading experts in the field of social development in order to significantly improve the wellbeing of communities, to create a feeling of inclusiveness, and to motivate employees to take part in the development of their communities.

VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

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ARC participated in science forum South Africa

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he CEO and President of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), Dr Litha Magingxa, led a team of agricultural scientists and experts at the Science Forum South Africa held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. The theme for the Forum was “Igniting conversation about science - people, and partnership priorities for the decadal plan”.

Science Forum South Africa brings together civil society, leading researchers, scientists, and policymakers to deliberate on challenges and solutions facing science in the present century and the impact it has on social justice globally.

Dr Magingxa was the keynote speaker at the event and

focused on the future of society, technology, and democracy.

“In the face of the world's growing population, providing nutritional food is a challenge that requires scientific solutions. As the ARC, we are committed to addressing this challenge and contributing to the well-being of humanity,” she said.

As part of the engagement, ARC researchers and experts participated in an exhibition. The public was invited to visit the ARC stand, it provided an opportunity to interact with the scientific community and learn about groundbreaking research and innovation.

VERTICAL FARMING: an entrepreneurial journey T

he town of Stellenbosch is no stranger to innovation and entrepreneurship, but ever so often an entrepreneur emerges to underscore the potent fusion of passion and purpose. Hein Duvenhage, winner of the IdeasForChange Food Secure Challenge, stands as a compelling example. At the helm of Arable Grow vertical farming, he leads a pioneering venture committed to reshaping the agricultural frontier.

Hein's journey began with a deep dive into the intricacies of future city design during his postgraduate studies in civil engineering. Witnessing the alarming threats to food security posed by climate change, logistics, and economic challenges, Hein felt compelled to take matters into his own hands. Fuelled by a desire to make a meaningful impact, he assembled a diverse team to tackle the problem head-on.

The result was Arable Grow, a solution-driven business focused on controlled vertical farming. Hein's vision extended beyond mere profitability; he aimed to create a venture that not

only produced commercially viable and profitable outcomes but also fostered positive environmental and community impact.

Arable Grow's market advantage lies in its innovative approach, combining technology, expert horticulture, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. Positioned as the first movers in the local market, Arable Grow strategically places vertical farms near consumer markets, drastically reducing transportation costs and environmental impact.

The company's controlled environments utilise up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods, ensuring resource efficiency. The scalable and adaptable nature of their systems caters to diverse markets and customer needs, while their focus on education and skill development in sustainable agriculture speaks to a broader commitment to community impact.

Compared to international competitors, Hein and his team stand out in terms of price, market readiness, and local experience.

Arable Grow, a solutiondriven business focused on controlled vertical farming.

VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARIE • FEBRUARIE 2024

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NEWS

New community garden for food security T

he Sprightly Seed, a dedicated public benefit organisation committed to environmental sustainability, social develop­ ment, and education announced the launch of its new organic garden at Bel Porto School in Lansdowne, Cape Town. The unveiling of the community garden highlights the non-profit’s commitment to promoting food security, sustainable practice, and community engagement.

“The new garden is more than just a plot of land; it represents a vital step towards enhancing food security and nutrition, especially crucial in South Africa where, according to recent statistics, about 27% of the country’s children, under the age of five, experience pro-longed periods of under nutrition. The public benefit organisation aims to be a beacon of hope and a model for sustainable gardening practices in the region,” says Jade Orgill, Managing Director and Human Development Specialist at The Sprightly Seed.

In alignment with its goals, The Sprightly Seed is poised to become the community's preferred destination for all gardening essentials, including a wide selection of seeds, organic plants, fruits, and vegetables. The organic garden also serves as an educational hub, with training programmes designed to empower individuals, schools and the southern suburbs community of Cape Town. These programmes focus on food sustainability, nutrition and environmental stewardship, fostering a culture of self-sufficiency.

Orgill has unveiled a strategic five-year plan dedicated to fostering connection between the earth and human kind. “The

roadmap for the organic market garden programme at Bel Porto School is comprehensive, integrating key components such as experiential outdoor education, management of postharvest processes, beneficiating garden produce into earth and people-friendly products, seamless curriculum integration, and ensuring knowledge access and inclusive skills development.

“This blueprint underscores our pledge to cultivate a selfsustaining environment that serves the broader community.

Moving forward, we are eager to deepen our community ties through interactive workshops and collaborative partnerships, aiming to nurture and expand our initiative within Bel Porto School and across the schools in the Cape Metros.”

Principal Ilona Herman of Bel Porto School says the organic garden initiative at Bel Porto is more than just an educational tool; it is a nurturing ground for empowerment and independence.

“Through this garden, our students with intellectual and physical disabilities receive practical training that equips them with valuable life skills. They are actively involved in the cultivation, processing and sale of produce, which not only fosters a sense of accomplishment but also generates crucial funds for the school. This project is a cornerstone in our mission to guide our students towards self-sufficiency, and the confidence to step into the workplace meaningfully prepared.

We are planting seeds of opportunity that we believe will flourish into brighter futures for each student involved.”

For more information visit www.thesprightlyseed.org.

Valtra is the power behind Rugani 100% carrot juice A

decision not to waste a single carrot from any of their fields resulted in the popular fresh Rugani carrot juice. Harvested at sunrise and juiced and bottled by sunset, Rugani carrot juice is made from fresh carrots to ensure maximum nutritional benefit.

Carrots are a powerful source of essential nutrients that may assist in promoting vision and reducing the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

After much research and a visit to an expert in Italy, the process of extracting Rugani carrot juice was refined. Greenway Farms’ tractors are all Valtra, a global AGCO brand, distributed in South Africa by ValtraC. The tractors take care of all tillage (deep and shallow), planting in cultivated and uncultivated soil, and lifting and transporting crops to the factory.

Since a Valtra T171 was demonstrated at Greenway Farms in 2008, there was no turning back. The demonstration model was promptly acquired. Since then, its ranks have been supplemented with an impressive range of hard-working Valtras – all of them bright red, the colour preferred by Vincent’s father.

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The Finnish tractor company is the only one that allows a farmer to choose what colour his tractors should be. Even the new S series, typically released in dramatic black, must be Rugani red.

The Valtra tractors at Greenway Farms include the versatile six-cylinder T191, T194, and T234, the S353 and S374, and the four-cylinder N111 and N134. The Valtra tractors are customised with suitable tyres for different tasks. These range from high-traction wide tyres for tillage and heavy-lift mounted implements to narrow high-clearance 54" tyres for working over the carrot beds.

All the Valtra tractors are four-wheel drive and perform exceptionally well even in muddy conditions, thanks to the excellent weight distribution between the axles. Smooth automatic gear shifting across the entire speed range allows the tractor to operate at the best speed for every task. The standard creeper speed on the Valtra’s maintains the slow pace necessary for the carrot harvesters.

Visit www.valtrac.co.za for more information.

VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

NUUS NEWS

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Empowering farmers through sustainable practices Start-up farming is challenging, particularly in South Africa, where producers face multiple challenges.

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he reality is that many new farmers find it daunting to sustain their agricultural businesses beyond the first two years. Yet, with the right support, success is possible, as Eric Shungube, a 63-year-old smallholder farmer with 23 years of experience in farming with vegetables, will testify.

Shungube operates in Mbuzini in the Nkomazi Local Municipality area in Mpumalanga. It is located near the Mozambique and Swaziland border. He has 15 hectares of arable land but currently operates on 3 hectares. He specialises in crops like cabbage and chilli/hot peppers. In addition, he also has a small portion of banana orchards that subsidise his income.

Timbali Technology Incubator initiates a structured approach by grouping farmers based on their geographical location and the crops they cultivate. In each group, an extension officer takes on the role of a dedicated coach for the farmers.

These extension officers go the extra mile, visiting farms using motorbikes. During these on-farm visits, they provide vital technical and financial support to the farmers. Technical support focuses on honing farming skills and ensuring

adherence to good agricultural practices’ guidelines (SA GAP).

On the financial side, extension officers assist with income and expenditure record-keeping, profit, and loss tracking, as well as setting and monitoring sales targets.

Timbali Technology Incubator's extraordinary success is attributed to its implementation of South African good agricultural practices. SA GAP is akin to a comprehensive playbook, guiding farmers toward more effective agricultural methods. While its primary goal is to promote high-quality food production, it also emphasises environmental stewardship, financial sustainability, and community support.

The commitment of extension officers conducting on-farm visits ensures that farmers receive personalised guidance and support. A progress report is used to assess each farmer's compliance with SA GAP principles. The reports focus on measuring SA Gap elements to guide farmers in adjusting to requirements.

Through hands-on workshops and personalised support from dedicated extension officers, smallholders and new farmers are acquiring the tools they need for long-term success.

ARC saddened by passing of former president and CEO

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he Agricultural Research Council (ARC) announced the passing of its former president and CEO, Dr Jon Terblanche. Terblanche served at the helm of the ARC from 1993 to 1998.

According to a statement of the ARC, Terblanche’s leadership during his tenure was marked by dedication, innovation, and a tireless commitment to advancing agricultural research and science. His visionary approach contributed significantly to the growth and impact of the ARC, leaving

an indelible mark on the organisation.

The ARC expressed condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy and contributions to the agriculture and science sectors will be remembered and cherished.

Dr Litha Magingxa, the current President and CEO of the ARC, said Dr Jon Terblanche's leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the ARC. His vision and dedication have left an enduring impact, and he will be remembered as a stalwart in the fields of agriculture and science.

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NUUS NEWS

NEWS

Load shedding causes frequent disruptions in irrigation and refrigeration systems which impacts fruit quality and size, agro-processing, as well as farmer and worker livelihoods.

Fruit industry invests to ensure survival through loadshedding As the country regularly plunges into loadshedding and with 2023 being the worst year on record for South Africans enduring power cuts, the fruit industry has had to become more independent and invest considerable resources into ensuring the sustainability of its operations. The industry is heavily reliant on consistent energy for both irrigation, packhouse, and cold chain integrity.

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e are seeing a massive impact on the country’s fruit industry, starting from the nursery level and extending to all parts of the supply chain,” says Culdevco’s General Manager, Mishkaat Anderson. “Load shedding causes frequent disruptions in irrigation and refrigeration systems which impacts fruit quality and size, agro-processing, as well as farmer and worker livelihoods – it affects both domestic production and our export competitiveness.”

Some of Culdevco’s fruit tree nurseries have reported a 45% drop in sales due to loadshedding as producers have cancelled their planned farm expansions. They also report a doubling of their monthly energy costs as diesel and generators are used to keep operations going.

A large apple and stone fruit farmer in Limpopo who farms over 40 hectares and provides fruit to both the local and export markets, said that the impact of the energy crisis on the farms has been severe. As all fertilizer inputs are done through irrigation, when there is loadshedding 75% of the trees are not irrigated on time and they have had to invest R4,4 million into solar power – and that is on just one of the farms. On another, generators are used for irrigation and during stage 6 loadshedding it costs the grower R3 750 per day. When it is peak season and the packhouse is needed for processing, the diesel costs increased to R6 250 per day during stage 6.

Another export stone fruit producer farming 30 hectares outside Paarl in the Western Cape, said he has spent R1,2 million to get his packhouse onto a hybrid system with an inverter and solar panels. He will be spending close to another million on more solar panels and a transmission line to loadshedproof his irrigation.

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“Across the industry we are seeing that farmers have to take matters into their own hands and divert considerable resources if they are able to ensure the survival of their operations,” says Anderson. “In terms of exports and South African harbours, the fruit industry is very involved in ensuring that the harbours are exempt from loadshedding, especially during peak season times.

“It’s really tough on the agriculture sector right now and it is compounded by the challenges of previous seasons which saw increasing fertilizer and diesel costs. However, I also see that South African farmers and producers are robust and have a resilient attitude. We just need to collaborate more and ensure that we provide mitigating actions that support the longevity of the industry.

“Although the agriculture sector only contributes 2,57% to GDP, the fruit industry employs approximately 300 000 people directly on farms and contributes to the nation’s food security - we need to ensure that we maintain and improve this number,” says Anderson.

Loadshedding solutions such as diesel generators, solar power, lithium batteries and elevated dams for storing water are solutions being discussed and utilised across the agricultural industry, with investment in water elevation being one of the most cost-effective and sustainable investments over the long-term.

Experts consistently state that having a comprehensive energy strategy in plan appears to be key for long-term stability.

Producers need to prepare for not only ongoing load shedding in the future but also the possibility of bigger stages impacting their operations.

VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

PROMOSIE | TAMATIES

Renka is the right indeterminate TOMATO VARIETY W

ith the ever-increasing costs of labour, fuel, fertilizer, and agricultural chemicals, choosing the right variety is very important.

A tomato variety with the right disease package and high yield potential is critical and can be the difference between breaking even and making a profit. That is why Starke Ayres’ Renka is becoming the logical choice for open-field, net and greenhouse tomato production.

When a tomato is planted directly in the soil, especially in a greenhouse, it is important to choose a variety with a good root system and a good root disease resistance package. This is precisely what Renka offers farmers, with resistance to Fusarium races 1-3, TSWV and TYLCV. Renka’s plant is vigorous with short internodes. The plant must be trellised and can be pruned or grown unpruned. The fruit set on Renka is good, with an average of six fruits per truss and an average weight of 140 g. Renka’s fruit is deep round and displays excellently in either a box or as a pre-packed tomato.

In summer plantings the first fruit will mature in 80 - 85 days after transplanting. The date of harvesting may vary by as much as 10 days between early and late season plantings. This needs to be taken into consideration when planning planting schedules under different growing conditions.

Traditionally Renka was only grown in greenhouses or net houses, but it is showing potential to grow in open fields with either one or two stems. With the full disease package, Renka is becoming the obvious choice for an indeterminate tomato variety, both in- and outdoors.

Renka in open-field.

The fruit set on Renka is good.

Kontrole

Kelpak® x2

Die verskil van gewoon na uitsonderlik is daai ekstra bietjie.

Kelpak seewier plantgroeireguleerder is wetenskaplik bewys om wortelgroei en plantgesondheid te verbeter met uitstekende opbrengsverbeterings asook eindproduk kwaliteite tot gevolg.

Renka’s fruit is deep round.

Kontrole

Kelpak® x2

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TOMATOES | PROMOTION

High-quality tomato varieties The tomato market is constantly evolving, demanding new varieties that offer superior features and benefits for both growers and consumers. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at two indeterminate round tomato varieties - Tyson and Dylla - that are making a mark in the industry due to their exceptional qualities and suitability for the fresh and hawker markets.

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yson is an indeterminate round variety with Fusarium 3 resistance, making it an ideal choice for areas where Fusarium 3 is a prevalent issue. It is renowned for its excellent fruit uniformity throughout the growth cycle and its potential for high yields. The plant boasts a well-balanced structure with good leaf cover. The firm fruits of Tyson not only contribute to its exceptional shelf life but also lack green shoulders, enhan­ cing the visual appeal of the produce.

Tyson's attributes make it a desirable choice for both the fresh produce market and hawker stalls. The well-covered firm fruits allow for an extended harvest period. With good fruit uniformity and resistance, Tyson holds promise for high yields.

The robust plant structure of Tyson ensures healthy fruit development.

Dylla is another standout indeterminate round tomato variety, prized for its firm fruits and high quality. Like Tyson, Dylla also lacks green shoulders, making it visually appealing and well-suited for the fresh and hawker market. With an average size ranging from 140 g to 200 g, Dylla offers fruits that are

ideal for market preferences. This variety comes with an excellent disease package, including resistance to Fusarium 3, and is known for its vigorous plant growth.

Dylla is well-suited for the dynamic fresh produce and hawker market segments. The firm fruits of Dylla and their consistent size contribute to the overall quality of the produce.

In conclusion, Tyson and Dylla are two noteworthy indeterminate round tomato varieties that have gained recognition for their distinct features and benefits. These varieties not only cater to the demands of the fresh and hawker markets but also offer solutions to common challenges such as Fusarium 3 resistance and high-quality fruit production. Their potential for high yields, balanced plant structures, and disease resistance make them valuable assets for growers aiming to meet market demands and deliver top-quality produce.

Syngenta Office: 2nd Floor, Block C Westend Office Park, 254 Hall St, Die Hoewes, Centurion, 0157. Tel: +27 11 541 4000 |Email: werner.wessels@syngenta.com |www.syngenta. co.za @SyngentaVegetableSeedsSouthAfrica.

Dylla is an indeterminate round tomato variety, prized for its firm fruits and high quality.

10 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

TOMATOES

Tomato nutrition Always do it right, then a bit more Tomatoes thrive on potassium nitrate (Ultrasol K Plus*) and with the addition of iodine (Ultrasoline K Plus**), taking yield and quality to the next level is now within every grower’s reach.

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orticultural crops are high feeders of both nitrogen (N) and potassium (K+), with potassium being taken up in the largest quantities (figure 1). Calcium (Ca++) comes in in a strong third position, often followed by magnesium (Mg++).

Potassium Nitrate (Ultrasol K Plus) is one product used to maximise the negatively charged nitrate-N (NO3)- to facilitate and optimise the uptake of the positively charged potassium, calcium and magnesium into the tomato crop. A good example of inadequate nitrate-N nutrition (therefore by implication an excess of ammonium-N) is the incidence of ‘blossom end rot’ (BER) which is a ‘physiologically induced’ calcium deficiency caused by uptake competition between the (NH4)+ and the Ca++, even though Ca++ is given in adequate quantities. The same uptake competition is happening between the (NH4)+-N and the K+ and Mg++ cations - elements of the same charge.

The ratio of nitrate-N to ammonium-N near the tomato plant roots (rhizosphere) should ideally be greater than 75:25 respectively for field crops and greater than 90:10 in hydroponically grown crops. Not only does this synergistically enhance the uptake of the cations by maintaining an electrochemical balance within the plant but also maintains an optimal pH in the rhizosphere.

In horticultural cash-crops receiving regular fertilizer applications, ammonium-N can be viewed solely as a pH regulator and not as a nutrient.

And now for the iodine add-on: Iodine has been accepted world-wide as a beneficial element for plant growth, in trace element quantities, influencing the gene expression of 531 genes as well as being incorporated into 40 proteins below ground and 42 proteins in the above ground plant parts in the studied horticultural test crop. These proteins play a role primarily in photosynthesis, root growth, energy and anti-stress functions. In more than 100 trials worldwide, the effect of iodine has been shown to increase yield by an average of 10%. In addition, effects were noticed on pollen viability, less disease, less BER, earliness in flowering and fruiting and greater root growth, amongst other observations.

In recent research on tomatoes, iodine enriched potassium

Figure 1. Major nutrient uptake (kg/t of fruit).

Greenhouse tomato, yield 400 t/ha, Netherlands.

nitrate (at the correct ratio) has been shown to increase yield, increase fruit calcium, reduce BER, increase polyphenols, increase Vitamin C content and increase carotenoids.

In the Robertson area SQM tested the yield benefits of regular Ultrasol K Plus (potassium nitrate) versus Ultrasoline K Plus (potassium nitrate + iodine) on field grown tomatoes. A 7,4% improvement in yield as well as the grower noticing better root development on the treated block was found. This resulted in a return on investment of R32 000 / ha (2021).

In international work with greenhouse tomatoes, growers in The Netherlands measured better fruit size (126 g vs 113 g), higher fruit calcium (40 vs 32 mmmol Ca/kg DM) and less rot during ambient temperature storage (30% vs 50%) under extreme temperature growing conditions, with the added iodine treated plants (figure 2). On further investigation it was disco­ vered that pollen viability (survival) improved from 3% to 25% under 35 °C heat stress for a 24-hour period, with the added iodine treatment.

Besides controlling BER with optimum nitrate-N, the added effect of iodine reducing BER by increasing the movement of calcium into tomato fruits is now well documented but not yet fully understood.

Water analyses, testing for iodine, showed that South African irrigation water has low iodine levels. On average less than 0,5 micro mol / L. Ideal iodine levels for plant growth are between 5 and 10 micro mol / L. Using Ultrasoline K Plus by simply replacing regular Ultrasol K Plus will improve your on-farm ROI. *Reg No K5020 Act 36/1947. Registration holder Sociedad Quimica y Minera (Africa)(Pty)Ltd **Reg No K11316 Act 36/1947. Registration holder Sociedad Quimica y Minera (Africa)(Pty)Ltd

Figure 2. Circles show fruit rot. LHS Ulrasoline K Plus. RHS Ultrasol K Plus. All else equal.

Disclaimer: The information herein contained is given to the best of SQM’s knowledge and is believed to be accurate. The conditions of your use and application of the suggested recommendations, are beyond our control. No warranty is made as to the accuracy of any data or statements contained herein. SQM specifically disclaims any responsibility or liability relating to the use of the recommendations and shall under no circumstances whatsoever, be liable for any special, incidental or consequential damages arising from such use.

12 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

TOMATOES

Tomato viruses and the impact on production in South Africa S

outh Africa is well-known for its diverse agricultural landscape with producers having to face numerous challenges in safeguarding their crops against various diseases. Among these challenges, viruses stand out as a significant aspect that has impacted the country’s tomato industry. The most common viruses to occur are TMV (Tobacco mosaic virus), TSWV (Tomato spotted wilt virus) and TYLCV (Tomato yellow leaf curl virus) in South Africa also referred to as ToCSV (Tomato curly stunt virus).

KEY IMPACTS VIRUSES HAVE:

Reduced yields Viral infections can lead to a decrease in tomato yields, especially when the plant is infected in the early stages of its life cycle. Infected plants can show symptoms such as stunted growth, reduced fruit size and poor fruit quality. This reduction in yield and quality directly affects the overall productivity and profitability of tomato farming.

Marketability issues Viral infections can render tomatoes unmarketable due to visual symptoms and reduced quality. Although virus infected fruit do not affect humans, tomatoes showing signs of viral infection are rejected by consumers, leading to market losses for the producer.

Economic losses Lower yields and decreased market value of infected produce result in financial challenges for both the producer and the broader tomato industry. The cost of implementing control measures and managing viral infections adds to the economic burden. It is critical to note that control measures need to be done at the correct stage before the vectors transmit the virus.

Once a plant has been infected with a virus no other measure will prevent the economic losses. Virus symptoms are often only noticed 2 to 4 weeks after infection has taken place. At this stage no insect vectors are visible, but infarction has already taken place. Regular and accurate scouting for insects is therefore a very critical part of any management strategy.

Increased production cost Managing viral infections requires additional resources, including the use of pesticides, preventative measures and the removal and disposal of infected plants, which will increase the production cost.

Environmental impact of pesticide use In attempts to control viral infections, growers may resort to increased pesticide use. This can have environmental consequences, affecting non-target organisms, soil health and water quality.

Long-term sustainability issues The continued presence of viruses in the tomato industry raises long-term sustainability concerns. Sustainable farming practices, such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and the development of resistant varieties, are essential for securing the industry’s future.

To address these challenges, a multi-faceted approach that combines research, education and regulatory measures is crucial. Once a plant is infected, it will remain infected for its life cycle, therefore it is important to keep the disease away from other plants, as far as possible. Most of the viruses that affect tomatoes are transmitted through vectors, but not all. Table 1 shows how the different viruses are being transmitted.

Table 1: How different viruses are transmitted

Virus

Transmitted by

TMV, ToMV

Contact

TSWV

Thrips

TYLCV (ToCSV), ToCV

Whiteflies TYLCV (Bemisia tabaci) ToCV (Trialeurodes vaporariorum)

PVY, AMV

Aphids

To combat these viruses, different approaches should be considered, depending on the way the virus is transmitted. Viruses being transmitted by contact will mainly be combated utilising sanitary precautions, while viruses that are being transmitted through vectors (aphids, thrips and whiteflies) will mainly focus on controlling the vector. For both viruses being transmitted either by contact or through a vector, the first step will always be to remove the diseased plants.

Breeding for resistance Breeding for virus resistance is highly successful in modern agriculture. Tomato varieties have been bred to have resistance against TMV, ToMV, TSWV, TYLCV and a combination of these viruses. Breeding for resistance is also the first line of defence against viruses. Breeding a tomato variety to have resistance against all viruses is very difficult and highly unlikely, therefore the use of phytosanitary precautions and IPM are still very important.

Impact on export markets South Africa is a significant exporter of tomatoes and viral infections can jeopardise the country's competitiveness in international markets. Strict phytosanitary regulations in importing countries may lead to restrictions or bans on the export of infected tomatoes.

Sanitary precautions Implementing effective sanitary precautions is crucial to combat viruses, especially the ones that are transmitted through contact. Sanitary measures that should be in place are: • Hand hygiene - workers need to wash their hands with dis-

14 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

TAMATIES Symptoms of TYLCV on an infected tomato plant.

infecting soap before entering tomato fields • Footwear sanitation • The use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and the proper disposal thereof • Sanitation of tools and equipment • Restricted access, to limit unnecessary movement.

Integrated pest management (IPM) IPM is a holistic approach that combines various strategies to control pests while minimising the impact on the environment, human health and beneficial organisms. The following IPM strategies can be used to combat thrips, aphids and whiteflies: • Biological control - using natural predators’ beneficial

plants that harbour beneficial insects • Cultural practices - weeding and removing alternative host plants, that harbour these vectors. TSWV has over 925 host plants, some of which will carry the virus without expressing symptoms • Selective pesticide use, especially rotating between different chemical class groups to prevent the vectors from building resistance • Yellow and blue sticky traps, in the case of whiteflies and thrips.

IPM requires regular monitoring, timely interventions and an understanding of the specific pests and beneficial organisms in a tomato production system. Integrating these strategies collectively enhances the overall resilience of the tomato crop against thrips, aphids and whiteflies.

As South Africa continues to face various challenges with viruses, ongoing research remains crucial for developing sustainable and resilient solutions. By implementing sanitary measures, adopting IPM practices and planting the correct tomato varieties, producers will be able to manage these viruses and grow a healthy crop that will provide for the country.

DISCLAIMER: This information 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, we give no warranty express or implied, for the performance of crops relative to the information given nor do we accept any liability for any loss, direct or consequential, that may arise from whatsoever cause. Please read the Sakata Seed Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd Conditions of Sale before ordering seed.

15

POTATOES

Tien jaar vooruitskouing vir aartappels:

Voorspoed is moontlik

Dr Tracy Davids van die Buro vir Voedsel- en Landboubeleid (BFAP) het in die jongste mark- en produksie-vooruitskouing aangedui dat die aartappelbedryf in Suid-Afrika voor 'n tyd van uitdagings en geleenthede staan. In die BFAP se vooruitskouing van tien jaar het sy uitgebrei oor die huidige stand van die bedryf en hierdie gewilde gewas se toekoms.

Mariana Purnell MEDEWERKER

Die wêreldmark en produksie

V

olgens die FAOSTAT in 2023 het wêreldwye aartappelproduksie vir die derde agtereenvolgende jaar toegeneem tot ‘n totaal van 376 miljoen ton. Die leierlande in aartappelproduksie sluit in China (25,0%), Indië (14,4%), Oekraïne (5,6%), die Verenigde State van Amerika (4,9%) en Rusland (4,8%).

Hierdie groei in produksie is aangespoor deur ‘n afname in globale brandstof- en kunsmispryse aan die einde van 2022 en vroeg in 2023, wat uitbreidings wêreldwyd makliker gemaak het.

Omdat aartappels ná oes hoogs bederfbaar is, is produse­ rende lande se geleenthede vir internasionale handel en berging beperk. Suid-Afrika is geen uitsondering nie. Die globale markdinamika word weerspieël in die plaaslike uitvoer wat gemiddeld slegs 7,5% van die produksie behels, terwyl die plaaslike aartappelmark sensitief is vir die binnelandse vraag- en aanbod.

Die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks Suid-Afrika se aartappelproduksie het oor die afgelope dekade jaarliks gemiddeld 1,3% toegeneem. Gedurende hierdie tyd­ perk het aartappeloppervlakte redelik konstant gebly op gemid­deld 52 500 hektaar, terwyl opbrengsverbeterings van 1,5% per jaar gemiddeld verantwoordelik was vir produksiegroei.

Suid-Afrika se aartappelmark was oor die afgelope jare baie wisselvallig. Die plaaslike aartappelmark is sterk beïn­vloed deur binnelandse faktore, insluitend klimaatstoestande, ekonomiese uitdagings en internasionale politieke sake.

Internasionale energiepryse, veral aardgas en Brent-ruolie, het ook ‘n rol gespeel. As 'n netto invoerder het ‘n daling in die pryse van insetmiddele 'n positiewe uitwerking op die SuidAfrikaanse bedryf gehad. Sodanige faktore sal voortgaan om besluite ten opsigte van aanplantings in die komende seisoen te beïnvloed. BFAP projekteer vir 2024 nog uitbreidings van 2,5% in die oppervlakte.

Aartappels word meestal in ‘n wisselboustelsel met mie­lies en koring geplant. Plaaslike pryse van hierdie twee kommodi­teite word deur internasionale kommoditeits­prysneigings aan­gedryf en het in 2022 aansienlik toegeneem met ‘n gemid­del­de styging van 34%. Dit het bygedra tot ‘n afname in aart­appeloppervlakte

en gevolglik ook die aanbod van hierdie produk.

Inflasie Daar is egter uitdagings wat nie onderskat moet word nie.

Die druk op verbruikers se inkomste en besteding, asook die invloed van vervangende produkte en verbruikerspryse, sal ‘n direkte uitwerking op die vraag na aartappels hê. Produsente moet bewus wees van hierdie faktore en in staat wees om aan die veranderende vraag te voldoen.

Vars aartappels is een van die belangrikste stapelvoedselbronne vir Suid-Afrikaanse verbruikers, buiten grane soos mielies en koringprodukte. BFAP berig gereeld oor die bydrae van verskillende voedselkategorieë en voedselitems tot inflasie.

Aartappels is ‘n algemeen aangekoopte voedselitem en was in Julie 2023 in dié voedselkategorie met die hoogste jaarlikse inflasiekoers. Saam met bevrore aartappelskyfies en uie het dit ‘n inflasiekoers van meer as 30% gehad, terwyl die groentekate­ gorie in Julie 2023 ‘n jaarlikse inflasiekoers van 18,5% getoon het, en die maandelikse inflasiekoers met 0,5% gedaal het.

Produksietoekoms Die uitwerking van faktore op die huidige stand van die aartappelbedryf in Suid-Afrika toon duidelik dat daar potensiaal vir groei en stabiliteit is. Na verwagting gaan die totale opper­ vlakte teen 2032 tot byna 55 000 hektaar toeneem. Verbeterde produksiepraktyke, kultivarontwikkeling, navorsing en beter gewasbeskermingsprodukte sal ook bydra tot opbrengs­winste van 1,2% per jaar, wat teen 2032 die gemiddelde opbrengs tot 54,5 ton per hektaar kan verhoog.

Nominale pryse gaan na verwagting effens daal, aangesien aanbod op hoër pryse reageer, maar op die lange duur word ‘n jaarlikse verhoging van gemiddeld 1,4% verwag, wat impli­ seer dat pryswinste stadiger as inflasie is. Produktiwiteit sal mettertyd moet verbeter om winsgewend te kan bly.

In ‘n neutedop: terwyl die Suid-Afrikaanse aartappelbedryf voor uitdagings staan, is daar ook duidelike geleenthede vir groei en stabiliteit. Die sleutel tot sukses gaan aanpasbaarheid met die veranderende omstandighede wees, en om te bly fokus op die ontwikkeling van produksiepraktyke en gewasse vir winsgewendheid op die lang termyn.

Die toekoms van die aartappelbedryf in Suid-Afrika is in die hande van die produsente en diegene wat in die bedryf betrokke is. Met die regte strategieë en ‘n goeie begrip van die markdinamika kan die aartappelbedryf in die komende jare voorspoedig wees.

16 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

Protect Your Potato Crops From Insects & Diseases INSECTICIDES

APHIDS

Aphids damage potatoes primarily by spreading plant diseases. Occasionally, aphids become so abundant that their feeding weakens the plants.

Closer® 240 SC Isoclast® active (Reg. No. L9694) is a suspension concentrate contact and systemic insecticide, for the control of aphids (Myzus persicae) on potatoes.

POTATO LEAF MINER

The Potato Leaf Miner (Liriomyza huidobrensis) fly adults inject their eggs into potato leaves and can take over potato fields in a matter of days. These pests feed on the plant leaving puncture wounds and lay eggs - which appear as white dots on leaves.

Delegate® 250 WG Jemvelva® active (Reg. No. L8392) is a water dispersible granule contact and stomach insecticide for the control of various pests including the potato leaf miner (Liriomyza huidobrensis)

FUNGICIDES

EARLY BLIGHT

Early blight on potatoes is caused by a fungal pathogen (Alternaria solani). This disease negatively affects the leaves, stems and tubers of the potato plant - reducing yield, tuber size and impacting the overall health of your crop.

Hit® 500 SC (Reg. No. L7575) is a suspension concentrate fungicide for the control of early blight (Alternaria solani) on potatoes that is rainfast after just 2 hours of application.

Late blight (Phytophthora infestans) is a destructive fungal disease of potatoes which results in dry brown rot of the tubers.

Curzate® 600 WG (Reg. No. L10150) is a water dispersible granule fungicide, which is locally systemic and offers both preventative and curative control of late blight (Phytophthora infestans) on potatoes - affecting crops at this time of year.

LATE BLIGHT

Tanos® (Reg. No. L6564) is a water dispersible granule fungicide for the control of late blight (Phytophthora infestans) and early blight (Alternaria solani) on potatoes. It is highly effective as it consists of two unrelated highly active ingredients with unique modes of action namely: Cymoxanil (ethyl urea), a locally systemic fungicide with preventive and curative action as well as Famoxadone (oxazolidinedione), a preventive, residual fungicide active on spore formation and germination.

Zorvec® Encantia® 330 SE (Reg. No. L11227) was added to the Corteva Crop Protection offering - to specifically targets late blight (Phytophthora infestans) a detrimental pathogen known to compromise local potato growth.

OUR CROP PROTECTION PRODUCTS ARE AT THE HEART OF AGRICULTURE FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT THE REGISTRATION HOLDER: Corteva Agriscience RSA (Pty) Ltd · Reg. No. 1997/003030/07 • Paarl +27 (0) 21 003 8259 • Centurion +27 (0) 12 683 5700 • 2nd Floor, Building A, Lakefield Office Park, 272 West Avenue, Centurion, 0157, Gauteng, Republic of South Africa.

ALWAYS USE ACCORDING TO LABEL RECOMMENDATIONS: Closer 240 SC contains Isoclast (sulfoxaflor) (240 g/l) • Reg. No. L9694 | Act No. 36 of 1947 • Delegate 250 WG contains spinetoram (250 g/kg) ®

®

®

• Reg. No. L8392 | Act No. 36 of 1947 • Hit® 500 SC contains procymidone (dicarboximide) (500 g/L) • Reg. No. L7575 | Act No. 36 of 1947 • Curzate® 600 WG contains cymoxanil (ethyl urea) (600 g/kg) • Reg. No. L10150 | Act No. 36 of 1947 • Tanos® contains cymoxanil and famoxadone (250 g/kg) • Reg. No. L6564 | Act No. 36 of 1947 • Zorvec® Encantia® 330 SE contains famoxadone (oxazolidine-diones) (300 g/l) and Zorvec® (oxathiapiprolin) (30 g/l ) • Reg. No. L11227 | Act No. 36 of 1947 • TM ® Trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. © 2023 Corteva.

HAZARD STATEMENT(S) FOR CLOSER® 240 SC Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

WARNING

WARNING

HAZARD STATEMENT(S) FOR DELEGATE® 250 WG Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

HAZARD STATEMENT(S) FOR CURZATE® 600 WG Flammable liquid and vapour. Harmful if swallowed. Causes serious eye damage. Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

WARNING

HAZARD STATEMENT(S) FOR HIT® 500 SC

May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure if swallowed. Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

HAZARD STATEMENT(S) FOR TANOS® WARNING

May be harmful if swallowed. May be harmful if inhaled. May cause an allergic skin reaction. Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child. May cause damage to organs eyes through prolonged or repeated exposure. Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

HAZARD STATEMENT(S) FOR ZORVEC® ENCANTIA® 330 SE WARNING

Combustible liquid. May be harmful if swallowed. May be harmful if inhaled. May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways. May cause an allergic skin reaction. May cause damage to organs eyes through prolonged or repeated exposure. Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PRODUCT LABELS

Visit us at corteva.co.za

POTATOES

Unieke chemie en voordele vir AARTAPPELMOT Aartappels word regoor Suid-Afrika geproduseer en word as ‘n sleutelgewas in groente se produksiemandjie beskou, maar insekplae soos die aartappelmot kan groot oesverliese veroorsaak.

P

hthorimaea operculella (Zeller, 1873) (Lepidoptera: Gele­ chiidae), wat ook as die aartappelmot in Suid-Afrika be­ kend staan, is ‘n generalistiese plaag-insek met ‘n voorkeur vir gewasse soos aartappels, tamaties en tabak. Die aartappelmot se oorsprong spruit uit Suid-Amerika en is reeds vir langer as ‘n eeu in Suid-Afrika teenwoordig waar dit hoofsaaklik warmer gebiede verkies. Klimaatsverandering mag wel lei tot ‘n hoër voorkoms en aktiwiteit van die aartappelmot as gevolg van droër en warmer klimaatstoestande wat verwag kan word.

Besmettings deur die aartappelmot kan tot betekenisvolle verliese lei. Larwes wat die blaartonnel binnedring sal gewoonlik nie ‘n beduidende oesverlies hê nie, maar jong plantjies aan die begin van die seisoen mag erge skade onder hoë besmettingsvlakke lei.

Wanneer plante se loof aan die einde van die seisoen begin afneem, begin larwes na alternatiewe bronne van voedings­ materiaal soek. Dit is die stadium wanneer ‘n hoë risiko ont­ staan, aangesien larwes af kan beweeg en klein openinge asook krakies op die grondoppervlakte binnedring wat toegang tot knolle bied.

Gestoorde knolle kan ook beskadig word indien besmetting plaasvind as gevolg van wyfies wat toegang tot pakhuise kry. Soos met enige plaagbeheer, word die gebruik van geïntegreerde plaagbestuur (GPB) ten sterkste aanbeveel om die aartappelmot te beheer wat omgewings- en ekonomiese aspekte bevoordeel.

As deel van ‘n GPB strategie en om die risiko van weerstands­ ontwikkeling te verminder, is SumiPleo® ‘n goeie keuse om aartappelmot mee te beheer. Dit bevat die chemiese aktiewe bestanddeel, Piridaliel (IRAC groep: UN) wat deur Sumitomo Chemical Company in Japan geïdentifiseer en ontwikkel is.

Figuur 1. Piridaliel se chemiese struktuur.

Sleutelkenmerke van SumiPleo® sluit die volgende in: • Unieke chemiese molekuul (dichloopropeen-derivaat) met geen risiko vir kruisweerstand met ander molekules wat tans op die mark beskikbaar is nie.

• ‘n Kontak- en maaginsekdoder in ‘n emulgeerbare konsentraatformulasie.

• Kort na inname (drie tot vier ure) hou teiken-larwes op vreet.

• Dit is doeltreffend teen alle larvale instars.

• Dit het ‘n beduidende lae uitwerking teen nie-teiken-organismes soos roofmyte, wespes, kewers, erdwurms en bestuiwers soos bye.

• SumiPleo® het ‘n relatiewe kort onthoudingsperiode op aartappels van 14 dae.

• Dit benodig nie bykomende bevorderings- of kleefmiddels nie en beskik oor uitstekende reënvastheid sodra die spuitmengsel op die teikenplant droog geword het.

Let wel dat indien die produk teen die aartappelmot aangewend word, kan ‘n 50% tot 80% afname in skade van Liriomyza spp. blaarmyners verwag word.

As deel van ‘n strategie binne ‘n spuitprogram om die aart­appelmot te beheer en die risiko tot weerstandsontwikkeling te beperk, dien SumiPleo® toe teen 200 ml/ha as deel van ‘n voldekbespuiting in 500 - 1 000 L water per hektaar sodra die pes waargeneem word. Aartappels moet minstens twee keer tydens die seisoen gerif word om die beheer van aartappelmot­larwes te ondersteun.

Philagro SA bied eksklusiewe toegang tot SumiPleo®, mo­ derne insekdoder-tegnologie uit Japan. Vir meer inligting, kontak gerus die naaste Philagro-verteenwoordiger of die produkbestuurder, Jaco Marais - 072 390 3547.

Verwysings CABI DIGITAL LIBRARY. 2021. Datasheet: Phthorimaea operculella (Potato tuber moth). CABI Compendium. https://www. cabidigitallibrary.org/ Datum van toegang: 21 Junie 2023.

KROSCHEL, J, SPORLEDER, L. and CARHAUPOMA, P. Pest distribution and risk atlas for Africa - Potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller 1873). International Potato Centre. https://cipotato.org/ Datum van toegang: 26 Junie 2023.

VISSER, D. 2011. A complete guide to vegetable pests in South Africa. Agricultural Research Council, Roodeplaat Vegetable and Ornamental Plant Institute, Pretoria. 316 pp.

SAKAMOTO, N., UEDA, N., UMEDA, K., MATSOU, S., HAGA, T., FUJUSAWA, T. and TOMIGAHARA, Y. 2005. Research and development of a novel insecticide “Pyridalyl”. Sumitomo Kagaku 2005-I. RAADPLEEG DIE VOLLEDIGE SUMIPLEO® ETIKET VOOR GEBRUIK. SumiPleo® (Reg. Nr. L8377 Wet. Nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 500 g/L piridaliel dichlorpropeen-derivaat. GHS (seinwoord): Gevaar. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: 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.

SumiPleo® is ’n geregistreerde handelsmerk van Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan. Philagro South Africa (Edms) Bpk. Reg. Nr. 1998/010658/07 PostNet Suite #378, Privaatsak X025, Lynnwoodrif 0040. 012 348 8808 / 021 851 4163.

18 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

Tindrum 23/207

Aartappelprodukte wat werk Die beproefde sukses van die Philagro produkreeks verseker dat ons produkte kop en skouers uitstaan in ‘n kostedoeltreffende aartappelprogram!

• •

Verbeter die uitloop van moere met ProGibb® 4% en ProGibb® 40 WG. Optimaliseer grondgesondheid en opbrengspotensiaal met EndoMaxx®

Beheer: • Laatroes met Leimay® 200 SC – Nuwe eN uNieke chemie iN S.A. • Swartskurf en Stamkanker met Rizolex® WP • Aartappelmot en Tuta absoluta met SumiPleo® • Aartappelmot, Snywurm en Afrika (Amerikaanse) bolwurm (in die Wes Kaap) met Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC en Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW • Plusia landmeters met DiPel® DF en Florbac® WG • Vroeëroes met Sumisclex® SC Praat gerus met jou naaste Philagro-agent oor betroubare aartappelprodukte wat werk.

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. GHS (seinwoord): Geen. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Hierdie produk is nie geklassifiseer as gevaarlik volgens GHS nie. EndoMaxx® (Reg. nr. M200 Wet nr. 36 van 1947), bevat Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (Rhizophagus irregularis (5 625 propagules/g), Claroideoglomus luteum (5 625 propagules/g), Claroideoglomus claroideum (5 625 propagules/g), Claroideoglomus etunicatum (5 625 propagules/g). Florbac® WG (Reg.nr. L5531 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 15 000 IE/mg Bacillus thuringiensis var aizawai. GHS (seinwoord): Waarskuwing. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Veroorsaak ernstige oogirritasie. Skadelik vir waterlewende organismes. Leimay® 200 SC (Reg. nr. L10884 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 200 g/L Amisulbrom (sulfoamied). GHS (seinwoord): Waarskuwing. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Baie giftig vir waterlewende organismes met langdurige gevolge. ProGibb® 4% (Reg. nr. L5118 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 32 g/L gibberelliene. GHS (seinwoord): Gevaar. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Hoogs vlambare vloeistof en damp. Veroorsaak ernstige oogirritasie. Mag slaperigheid of duiseligheid veroorsaak. ProGibb® 40WG (Reg. nr. L6777 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 400 g/kg gibberelliene. GHS (seinwoord): Waarskuwing. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Skadelik indien ingeasem. Veroorsaak oogirritasie. Rizolex® WP (Reg. nr. L6376 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 500 g/kg tolklofosmetiel. GHS (seinwoord): Waarskuwing. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Mag allergiese velreaksie veroorsaak. Mag skade aan organe veroorsaak deur langdurige of herhaalde blootstelling. Baie giftig vir waterlewende organismes met langdurige gevolge. Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC (Reg. nr. L6452 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 200 g/L esfenvaleraat (Piretroïed). GHS (seinwoord): Gevaar. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Skadelik indien ingesluk of ingeasem. Veroorsaak ernstige oogskade. Mag allergiese velreaksie veroorsaak. Veroorsaak skade aan organe. Mag skade aan organe veroorsaak deur langdurige of herhaalde blootstelling. Mag dodelik wees indien ingesluk en in lugweg beland (inasemingsgevaar). Baie giftig vir waterlewende organismes met langdurige gevolge. Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW (Reg. nr. L8821 Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 200 g/L esfenvaleraat (Piretroïed). GHS (seinwoord): Gevaar. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Brandbare vloeistof. Skadelik indien ingesluk of ingeasem. Veroorsaak velirritasie, ernstige oogirritasie en/of skade aan organe. Mag allergiese velreaksie veroorsaak. Baie giftig vir waterlewende organismes met langdurige gevolge. SumiPleo® (Reg. Nr. L8377 Wet. Nr. 36 van 1947) bevat 500 g/L piridaliel dichlorpropeen-derivaat. GHS (seinwoord): Gevaar. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: 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. Sumisclex® SC (Reg. nr. L6377, Wet nr.

36 van 1947) bevat 250 g/L prosimidoon (dikarboksimied). GHS (seinwoord): Waarskuwing. GHS Gevaarverklaringsterme: Vermoede dat dit vrugbaarheid of die ongebore kind beskadig. SumiPleo®, Rizolex®, Sumi-Alpha® en Sumisclex® is geregistreerde handelsmerke van Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan. ProGibb®, DiPel® en Florbac® is geregistreerde handelsmerke van Valent BioSciences, VSA. Leimay® 200 SC is die geregistreerde handelsmerk van Nissan Chemical Industries LTD, Tokyo, Japan. EndoMaxx® is ‘n geregistreerde handelsmerk van Mycorrhizal Applications LLC, Grants Pass, OR, 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

P R O D U K T E W AT W E R K V A N M E N S E W AT O M G E E

POTATOES

MALROES:: MALROES

Beskerm die aartappeloes met hierdie slim praktyke Malroes, ook bekend as Alternaria alternata, is ‘n bekende siekte in die aartappelbedryf wat jaarliks oesverliese vir produsente tot gevolg het. Die vraag wat algemeen gevra word is hoe groot die uitwerking van malroes regtig is. Malroes kan uitermatige groot oesverlies tot gevolg hê en in uiterste gevalle oesverliese van tot 40% veroorsaak.

Albert Potgieter LANDBOUKUNDIGE, VILLA CROP PROTECTION

D

ie Universiteit van Pretoria se aartappelpatologieprogram het Alternaria alternata as die organisme verantwoordelik vir malroes geïdentifiseer (Van der Waals et al., 2011). Al­ ternaria alternata (malroes) is tans oor alle bekende aartappel produserende gebiede van SA versprei en simptome kan vanaf dag 50 na opkoms waargeneem word, en in sommige gevalle vroeër. Die simptome sluit klein waterdeurdrenkte letsels aan die onderkant van die blaar in wat na ‘n paar dae vergroot en aan die bokant van die blaar gesien kan word. Malroesletsels is gewoonlik kleiner as die van vroeëroes en het ook nie die kenmerkende sentrifugale ringe wat met vroeëroes gepaardgaan nie.

Beheer en bestuur Daar is tans geen geregistreerde aktiewe bestanddeel in SuidAfrika vir malroesbeheer nie en gevolglik moet verskeie voorkomende strategieë toegepas word om infeksie te voorkom. Dit is baie belangrik om die algemene plantgesondheid van die plant te bestuur.

Malroes kom algemeen voor onder warm, vogtige toestande waar blare vir lang tydperke nat bly. Alternaria alternata se spore oorleef lank in oesreste, grond en onkruide. Dit is belang­rik om kennis te neem dat verspreiding van die siekte primêr deur wind en water plaasvind en kan dus oor groot afstande versprei.

Die korrekte identifikasie van Alternaria aleternaria is belang­ rik, sommige simptome kan verwar word, soos sekere voe­dings­ tekorte. Gereelde besoeke aan die aanplantingsareas is ‘n be­ langrike aspek van beheer en so ook gereelde blaarmonsters om voedingstekorte te identifiseer.

Nog ‘n kritiese bestuursaspek is die beperking van stremmingstoestande, aangesien daar min tot geen kans vir korrektiewe optrede is indien infeksie reeds plaasgevind het. Dit sluit

ook skadebeperking aan die plant in, hetsy dit deur insekte, chemies of meganies van aard is.

Hoewel daar tans geen aktiewe bestanddeel vir malroes in Suid-Afrika geregistreer is nie, is daar is wel sekere aktiewe middels wat die beheer beïnvoed. Kinoon buite-inhibeerders asook die inhibeerders van suksinaat-dehidrogenase (SDHI) swamdoders word as ‘n oplossing aangewend maar geen aktiewe middel dien as ‘n volledige oplossing nie. Daar is ook sprake van weerstand teen die groepe. ‘n Belangrike punt is die doeltreffende toediening van die chemikalieë wat gebruik word. Genoeg water met toediening, die regte byvoegmiddels vir die beste bedekking en verspreiding, en die regte benadering van aktiewe middels speel alles ‘n groot rol.

Belangrike bestuurspraktyke sluit die volgende in: • Aanplanting van kultivars wat minder vatbaar vir Alternaria spesies is.

• Bekamping van Alternaria gasheerplante soos onkruid en oesreste.

• Wisselbou met nie-gasheerplante (soos mielies en koring).

• Algemene plantgesondheid is krities.

Om saam te vat, malroes is hier om te bly en iets waarvan alle aartappelprodusente kennis moet dra. Bestuur is ‘n groot bydraende faktor en soos met baie ander gevalle is voorko­ming altyd beter as om regstellend te probeer optree. Gereelde inspeksies van landerye en die versameling van blaarmonsters kan probleme vroeër identifiseer. ‘n Geïntegreerde spuitprogram is belangrik om eksterne faktore soos insekskade te beperk en plantstremming te voorkom. Hou by ‘n gebalanseerde bemestingsprogram en voorkom oormatige stikstofgebruik.

Vir Villa se omvattende reeks swamdoders, besoek www.villacrop.co.za.

20 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

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Choose FILUM 520 SC. Registration details: FILUM 520 SC (L 9755, Act 36 of 1947). Active ingredients: pyrimethanil (aniline derivative) 400 g/l; trifloxystrobin (strobilurine) 120 g/l. Warning: May be harmful if swallowed. May be harmful in contact with skin. May cause harm to breast-fed children.

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Very toxic to aquatic FILUM 520 SC (L 9755, Act 36 of 1947). Active 400Africa. g/l; trifloxystrobin Registration Holder: Villa Crop Protection (Pty)ingredients: Ltd. PO Boxpyrimethanil 10413, Aston(aniline Manor,derivative) 1630, South Tel. (011) 396(strobilurine) 2233.

120 Warning: May beuse. harmful if swallowed. May be harmful in contact with skin. May cause harm to breast-fed children.

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Registration Holder: Villa Crop Protection (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 10413, Aston Manor, 1630, South Africa. Tel. (011) 396 2233.

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Registration details: FILUM 520 SC (L 9755, Act 36 of 1947). Active ingredients: pyrimethanil (aniline derivative) 400 g/l; trifloxystrobin (strobilurine) 120 g/l. Warning: May be harmful if swallowed. May be harmful in contact with skin. May cause harm to breast-fed children.

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Registration Holder: Villa Crop Protection (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 10413, Aston Manor, 1630, South Africa. Tel. (011) 396 2233.

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www.villacrop.co.za www.villacrop.co.za www.villacrop.co.za

9843 Villa_FILUM 520 SC_280mmx210_Eng.indd 1

2024/01/05 1:40 PM

9843 Villa_FILUM 520 SC_280mmx210_Eng.indd 1

2024/01/05 1:40 PM

GENERAL

Na-oesbemesting, die sleutel tot toekomstige groei en opbrengs Die seisoen se einde is in sig, die oes is gereed en in sommige gevalle reeds afgehaal.

Alles binne die produsent se beheer is gedoen en toegepas om die oes te verskans en suksesvol in te vorder.

W

at lê nog voor? Die belangrikste bemesting van die jaar, naamlik na-oesbemesting. Dit is die laaste hekkie voordat die produsent vir ‘n rustyd kan wegbreek.

Permanente gewasse soos kernvrugte, steenvrugte en wingerd gaan in ’n dormante fase in as ’n beskermingsmeganisme om uiterste klimaatstoestande te oorleef. Daar is hoofsaaklik drie soorte dormansie: • Para-dormansie • Endo-dormansie • Eko-dormansie.

Endo-dormansie is dié dormante fase waarin bome gaan om te oorwinter en uiterste koue toestande te weerstaan. Endodormansie word nie deur een spesifieke eksterne faktor geinduseer nie, maar geskied onafhanklik daarvan, hoewel groei eers gestaak moet word voordat die endo-dormante fase kan begin.

Endo-dormansie word gestaak deur genoeg winterkoue (koueeenhede). Waar geakkumuleerde koue-eenhede nie genoeg was nie, kan bome baie stadig bot of selfs glad nie bot nie.

Vrugte dien as ‘n groot sink vir voedingstowwe gedurende die groeiseisoen, met die resultaat dat baie van die opgeneemde voedingstowwe gedurende lente- en somerbemestingstydperk in vrugte gestoor word. Die restant word gewoonlik verder vir groei en fotosintese gebruik. Hierdie voedingstowwe moet weer vervang word en dit is hoekom na-oesbemesting so belangrik word.

Na-oesbemesting word bereken volgens i) die hoeveelheid vrugte wat verwyder is (tonne), ii) bome se huidige stikstof- (N) status, verkry deur blaarmonsters te neem, en iii) die groeikragtigheid van die bome.

Die na-oesbemesting vul van die verwyderde voedingstowwe aan en gee die bome kans om reserwes te begin opbou vir die komende lente. Toevoeging van voedingstowwe gee die bome geleentheid om verder te fotosinteer en fotosintaat te produseer. Die koolhidrate en ander voedingselemente word op hulle beurt getranslokeer na die boom se permanente organe (wortels en stam). Hierdie reserwes word dan in die volgende lente gebruik as energie en voeding om die bome goed te laat bot en ook vir genoeg reserwe-voeding wat tekorte in die vroeë lente sal voorkom.

Stikstof, kalium, fosfaat en talle mikro-elemente moet met na-oesbemesting en blaarbespuitings in die na-oesbemestings­

fase aangevul word. Dit sal tekorte vroeg in die groeiseisoen voorkom. Soos reeds genoem is die oeslading, blaar- en grond­ ontleding krities tot die berekening van die korrekte elemente én hoeveelheid elemente wat toegedien word.

Lae voedingsvlakke wat in blaarontledings aangedui word, moet na-oes aandag kry maar vir optimale voeding ook in die komende seisoen se bemestingsaanslag. Swak na-oesbemes­ ting sal ’n invloed hê op die komende seisoen se bot, blom en groeikragtigheid. Gebrekkige stikstoftoedienings na die oes kan nie met die lente-bemestings reggestel word nie.

Na-oesbemesting moet so gou as moontlik toegedien word nadat die oes afgehaal is terwyl daar genoeg blare op die boom oor is om koolhidrate te vervaardig. Voordat naoesbemesting toegedien word, moet geen nuwe loot groei eers plaasvind vir ten minste twee weke nie. Andersins kan ongewenste nuwe groei aangewakker word. Die normale toedieningstyd is rondom Maart/April, maar dit wissel tussen kultivars en vrugsoorte.

Oorgeil boorde kan tot ’n mate as ’n aanduiding gebruik word om ongewenste groei te verminder. Dit word gedoen deur die vermindering van stikstof as na-oesbemesting. Aanpassings moet egter eers in die lente­bemestingsprogram gemaak word voordat groot aanpassings na-oes oorweeg word.

Belangrik: • Kry blaarmonsters tydig en stuur die ontledingsdata aan die naaste NexusAG gewasadviseur.

• Indien binne ‘n siklus (3-jaarliks vir swaarder gronde, 2-jaarliks vir sandgronde), kry grondmonsters vir kalkregstellings en ook as aanduiding van die grond se voedingstatus.

• Verskaf die akkuraatste moontlike oesskattings of volledige oes-data aan die betrokke bemestingsadviseur sodat die na-oesbemesting bereken kan word.

• Evalueer die groeikrag van die bome/plante en verskaf daardie data saam met oesdata, blaarontleding- en grondmonsterdata.

Kontak gerus ‘n NexusAG CropLife-geakkrediteerde gewasad­ vi­ seur dadelik en ontdek hoe die landbou-onderneming ondersteun kan word met doeltreffende na-oesbemestings­ programme: www.nexusag.net .

22 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

Ontsluit die geheim tot 'n gebalanseerde na-oesbemestingsprogram met NexusAG se kundige gewasadviseurs.

Ons hou dié belangrike aspekte in gedagte om 'n wetenskaplike benadering te volg met die samestelling van na-oesbemestingstrategieë.

Trek tydige blaar- en grondmonsters

Bepaal die akkurate oesska ings of volledige oesdata

Evalueer die groeikrag van die bome/plante

NexusAG-agente benut die ingesamelde data van blaarmonsters, grondmonsters, oesska ings, en groeikrag-evaluasies om 'n doeltreffende na-oesbemestingstrategie saam te stel.

Hierdie holistiese benadering verseker 'n pasgemaakte bemestingsprogram wat die spesifieke behoe es van u boerdery aanspreek, met die doel om optimale opbrengste en grondgesondheid te bevorder.

Ons CropLife geakkrediteerde NexusAG gewasadviseurs kan u ondersteun met kundige advies en spesialisdienste tydens elke fase van hierdie proses.

Kontak gerus jou naaste NexusAG Gewasadviseur vir persoonlike en professionele ondersteuning.

KONTAK ONS VIR MEER INLIGTING: www.nexusag.net 021 860 8040

GENERAL

SA avos to be exported to China The total avocado import volume in China has been continuously increasing and the demand for ready-to-eat avocado and year-round availability from different countries is soaring.

Mariana Purnell CONTRIBUTOR

A

s the world’s ninth biggest avocado exporter, South Africa traditionally supplies the EU and UK markets. But now a new opportunity winks in the east that could have huge economic and social impacts on local producers. Avocados are not a well-known product in China, but consumer awareness is improving and consumption trends are growing.

According to Clive Garrett, Director of the World Avocado Organisation, world trade in avocado is escalating as evidenced by a growth rate of 12% per year since 2011/12 compared to global fruit trade growth of only 2,1%. By 2020/21 the turnover had grown from US$ 4,8 billion (about R89,76 billion) to US$ 69 billion (about R129 billion) with 2,5 million tons of avocado being exported. This made up 3,6% of international fruit trade and in financial terms amounts to 8% of all fruit trade.

World trade is dominated by Mexico, accounting for 60%, and Peru with 22% of exported volumes. Last year, 6% came from Africa - Kenya led with 95 000 tons followed by South Africa with 61 000 tons. About half of all world exports go to the USA and one third to the EU and the UK, thus accounting for 80% of all avocado exports. The other 20% is exported to the rest of the world.

China currently imports avocados mainly from Peru with smaller volumes coming from Chile and Mexico. Over the last year, China’s imports from Kenya jumped from zero to a value of over US$ 7,6 million (about R142,1 million). While the total import volume in China has been continuously increasing and has reached almost 60 000 tons valued at US$1,2 million (about R22,44 million), the demand for ready-to-eat avocado and year-round availability from different countries is soaring.

The shipping schedule from South Africa to China is about 15 to 20 days, which is shorter than from other Southern hemisphere countries like Peru and Chile. Because of this advantage in shipping time, South African producers are eagerly looking to the east and engaging in careful communication with China's buyers as the potential of this major consumer of agricultural products to both make and break markets is well known.

To pursue this new market opportunity, three major role players in local avocado production, namely The Fruit Farm Group South Africa, Halls Fresh Produce South Africa and ZZ2, are engaging with Chinese buyers. In a recent webinar facilitated by Mabel Zhuang, China Country Manager of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), they confirmed

that South Africa currently has a total of 19 091 hectares under avocados with production widely distributed throughout the country - about 53% from Limpopo, followed by Mpumalanga 22%, KwaZulu-Natal 19%, Western Cape 5% and Eastern Cape 1%. More than 50% of the avocados produced are of the Hass variety while the rest are green skin varieties like Fuerte and Pinkerton.

Some of the top avocado buyers in China, Yonghui Superstores, Shanghai Supafresh and Halls China, informed local suppliers of their plans for promotion by expanding to second and third tier cities. Customer relationship management is high on the agenda. Numerous media channels are used with TikTok being exceptionally influential. Direct marketing materials such as brochures with information on nutritional value and product selection according to colour and skin texture are also made available to customers. To support the wide marketing scope via juice bars, food service, offline retail, new retail and e-commerce, influencers and live broadcasts are employed.

Research and development support the marketing efforts and focus on expanding the application of avocado by Chinese consumers. The stores are advised on how to brand and promote avocados through their customer service with recipe ideas, especially seasonal recipes and mixing avocado with other seasonal vegetables. Smoothies, ice creams, cakes and even coffee mixed with avocado appear on the menu. One of these companies even has self-developed ripening facilities.

It appears that the Chinese consumer will soon become a discerning avocado buyer. South Africa’s focus should be on marketing avocado as a superfood whilst seriously considering quality and customer requirements, optimal fruit maturity and specifications as well as presentation. Timing and year-round supply windows into the market may become a customer demand.

Looking ahead, one cannot ignore the increasing importance of environmental ratings and a product's ecological footprint, suggesting that these factors will play a significant role in consumers' decision-making processes. It will be important for local exporters to note the required accreditations and protocols, including China post-harvest protocols when the new season starts in February.

In addition to the Chinese market, the expansion of the BRICS grouping as from 2024 and the latest intra-BRICS agreement on coordination on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) administrative processes opens the door for even more exports of South African agricultural products even though it is not strictly a trade agreement.

24 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

Unlocking Afrikelp’s potential for thriving

TOMATOES!

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GENERAL

2023 final citrus export figures lower than predicted During the 2023 export season, Southern African citrus growers packed 165,1 million (15 kg) cartons for delivery to global markets. While this is an increase of approximately 800 000 from the packed figures of 2022, it is still 500 000 cartons lower than the forecast at the start of the season.

M

ore importantly, the figure is substantially below the anticipated growth curve based on plantings that can see the industry potentially hitting 200 million cartons in the next four years, and possibly 260 million cartons by 2032. The Citrus Growers’ Association (CGA) says this highlights that growers continue to face several challenges when it comes to getting their fruit to key markets.

In 2023, 1,9 million fewer cartons of grapefruit were packed for export than in the previous year. It is nonetheless 400 000 more than estimated at the beginning of the season. The total of 14,8 million is considerably less than the 20,3 million packed in 2021, continuing the downward trajectory.

Mandarin exports continue to increase substantially. This past season 37,9 million cartons were packed, an increase of 6,1 million year-on-year and 3,8 million more than estimated at the start of the season. This growth is largely due to increased orchard plantings as well as strong demand in the European Union and the United Kingdom.

Lemons also showed an increase with 900 000 more cartons packed this past season, bringing the total to 35,6 million.

However, this was 1,3 million cartons less than the pre-season estimate.

Oranges have shown a decrease overall. In 2023, 24,7 million cartons of navels were packed, 3,1 million less than in 2022, and slightly below the estimate. Valencias also recorded a decrease: 1,7 million cartons less, with a total of 52,1 million cartons packed. This total is 2,4 million less than the original estimation.

Following an extremely challenging two years, where only one in five growers made a profit according to the CGA, the better market prices and reduced shipping costs offered a measure of relief to many growers.

“However, growers continued to face several challenges which negatively impacted the amount of citrus that could be exported and the profits” says the CGA. “These included sustained high levels of load shedding, which impacted the ability to irrigate, fertilize, pack, and cool citrus, the latter being an essential phytosanitary requirement for many export varieties.”

The general surge in farming input costs continued during the 2023 season and placed pressure on growers. Devastating

floods in the Western Cape in June 23 also impacted farms in that province. The flood caused damage of at least R500 million to citrus farms in the Citrusdal valley.

Another significant challenge was the worsening logistics crisis, which has paralysed large segments of the country's export economy. Congestion at ports and a dysfunctional freight rail network has cost farmers dearly and is, in effect, halting growth opportunities for the citrus industry. The CGA continues to engage with Transnet on these issues but is in full support of Transnet expediting public-private partnerships both in the ports and the rail system as a matter of urgency.

Perhaps the biggest challenge faced by the industry this season has been an intensification of the unjustified phytosanitary regulations imposed on growers by the European Union (EU).

Taken together, the unnecessary protocols and proactive measures against Citrus Black Spot (CBS) and False Coddling Moth (FCM) are costing the local citrus industry R3,7 billion annually.

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, stricter control measures or an EU market closure will surely devastate entire farming communities across South Africa. The CGA remains committed to working with the government to overcome these serious threats to the sustainability and profitability of the industry and the 140 000 jobs it sustains.

South African jobs need to be defended on the level of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) through urgent action. A call for a WTO panel must be declared on the FCM regulations and consultations called for regarding the CBS regulations.

The slow pace in ensuring wider access to key markets such as the United States, India, Vietnam, Japan, and Thailand, to absorb the increased production of fruit, poses a real risk to the industry.

Should the challenges concerning electricity supply, input costs, logistics, unfair trade regulations, and barriers blocking market expansion be addressed by all the relevant role-players and stakeholders, the citrus industry can easily attain its goal of creating a further 100 000 jobs and generate an additional R20 billion in annual revenue by 2032. This would bring its total contribution to 240 000 jobs and R50 billion in revenue.

26 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

ALGEMEEN

Suid-Afrika se landbou-uitdagings: “Ons benodig ‘n nuwe bril” Watter uitdagings staar landbou in Suid-Afrika tans in die gesig? Dit is ‘n vraag met amper soveel antwoorde as wat daar boere en landboukundiges is. Christian Giesel, hoof van bemarking by Syngenta Suid-Afrika, meen dat nuwe oplossings na vore tree wanneer ‘n mens met ander oë na die uitdagings kyk.

D

it is geen geheim nie dat SuidAfrika die volle ontwikkeling­ spektrum insluit: van die mees ge­ sofistikeerde finansiële stelsels ter wêreld tot tradisionele ruilhandel in landelike gebiede; van verbruikers wat slegs kos eet wat as organies gesertifiseer is tot huishoudings wat beswaarlik die mees basiese items kan bekostig.

Dieselfde spektrum geld vir die Christian Giesel hele landbouwaardeketting en moet as agtergrond dien vir enige bespreking oor uitdagings en hul oplossings. Dit beteken dat globale uitdagings op eiesoortige

wyse hier uitspeel en dat ons hulle uit ‘n plaaslike invalshoek moet hanteer. Dit beteken ook dat in soverre die spektrum dinge kompliseer, dit ook ‘n verskeidenheid van hanteringsopsies moontlik maak.

Teen hierdie agtergrond gee Christian Giesel sy siening van drie uitdagings waarmee plaaslike produsente tans worstel.

Klimaatsverandering, gronderosie en verlies aan biodiversiteit Suid-Afrikaanse boere is lank reeds rentmeesters van die grond, maar hulle sal dinge anders moet begin doen as ons wil voortgaan om genoeg kos vir ‘n groeiende wêreldbevolking te produseer.

NA BLADSY 28

te taai vir tuta

DENIM® Fit kombineer die spoed van emamektien en die lang nawerking van lufenuron in ’n insekdoder wat wurms en blaaspooitjies se doppie klink. Dit werk – soos jou lekkerste jeans.

3 redes om DENIM® Fit te kies: 1.

2.

3.

Een + Een = Drie: Verbeterde effektiwiteit deur die kombinasie van twee aktiewe bestanddele wat hulself reeds bewys het.

Geen stof Denim: ’n Unieke statiese formulasie verminder stof tydens uitmeet vir veiliger gebruik.

Een vir almal: ’n Eenkan oplossing beheer lepidoptera en blaaspootjie op verskeie gewasse.

Sê tata vir tuta met DENIM® Fit – ’n Produk wat perfek pas.

LEES DIE PRODUKETIKET VOOR GEBRUIK. DENIM® Fit (nie beperk nie) bevat emamektien bensoaat 100 g/kg en lufenuron 400 g/kg (Reg. Nr. L9978, Wet 36 van 1947) GEVAAR. GHS-Gevaarstelling: Skadelik indien ingesluk of ingeasem word.

Veroorsaak skade aan organe (senuweestelsel) deur langdurige of herhaalde blootstelling. Baie giftig vir waterlewe met langdurige effekte. DENIM® Fit, die verwantskapraam, die doelwit-ikoon en die woord Syngenta is geregistreerde handelsmerke van ’n Syngenta Groepmaatskappy. Syngenta Suid-Afrika (Edms) Beperk, Privaatsak X60, Halfway House, 1685. Tel. (011) 541 4000. www.syngenta.co.za © Syngenta Ag, 2000. Kopiereg voorbehou. Alle ongemagtigde vermeerdering word verbied.

@SyngentaSA | www.syngenta.co.za

27

GENERAL

Suid-Afrika se landbou-uitdagings: “Ons benodig ‘n nuwe bril” VAN BLADSY 27

Grondgesondheid is ‘n groot deel van die strategie om klimaatsverandering, gronderosie en verlies aan biodiversiteit die hoof te bied. ‘n Mens kan slegs die kaarte speel wat in jou hand is, en in Suid-Afrika sluit ons kaarte gronde met ‘n baie lae organiese inhoud in. Die Wesselsbron-omgewing in die Vrystaat is byvoorbeeld een van die produksiegebiede met hoë potensiaal, maar die gronde daar bevat minder as 0,5% organiese materiaal. Vergelyk dit met die 4% tot 6% organiese inhoud in Illinois in die VSA, en ons boer vir alle praktiese doeleindes in ‘n woestyn. Amerikaanse landboupraktyke kan gevolglik nie outomaties hier toegepas word nie.

Suid-Afrika se benadering moet op bewaringsboerderypraktyke fokus. Lewendige plantmateriaal regdeur die jaar verhoog grond se organiese inhoud en verhoed erosie deur uiterste weerstoestande wat toenemend en meer gereeld voorkom.

Bewaringspraktyke jaag sommige produsente die harnas in, siende dat oesreste, onkruid en selfs sekere wisselbougewasse ‘n habitat skep vir insekte en swamsiektes. In dieselfde asem, bied hulle egter ook skuiling aan voordelige organismes.

Die antwoord op hierdie vraagstuk lê in ‘n geïntegreerde benadering wat chemiese gewasbeskerming en strategiese bewerking insluit. Die dae van ploeg net om te ploeg is verby. Ons kan dit nie bekostig om organiese materiaal in die vorm van CO2 te verloor net omdat tradisie voorskryf wanneer wat gedoen moet word nie. Bewerking moet doelbewus en deurdag aangepak word.

Tegnologie teenoor werkverskaffing Boerderysukses berus tot ‘n groot mate op skaalvoordele. In die ontwikkelde wêreld is dit ‘n paadjie wat reguit na tegnologie en outomatisering lei. In Suid-Afrika is dit egter minder vanselfsprekend, gegewe die arbeidsituasie en maatskaplike verantwoordelikheid om werksgeleenthede te beskerm.

Dit beteken wel nie dat ons die rug op tegnologie moet keer nie. Die teendeel is waar: ons behoort tegnologie te gebruik om die werksmag so doeltreffend en produktief as moontlik aan te wend. Outomatisering is nie van pas onder alle omstandighede nie, maar die presisie wat daardeur moontlik gemaak word, moet nagejaag word om insetverliese en omgewingsimpak tot die minimum te beperk. ‘n Hulpbron soos Cropwise Operations illustreer hierdie beginsel. Cropwise Operations is ‘n digitale platform wat ‘n omvattende bestuurstelsel vir gewasmonitering, beplanning en rekordhouding bied. Deur middel van die Internet of Things (IoT) integreer dit met sensors in plaasimplemente en weerstasies om die sleurwerk uit presisieboerdery te haal. Selfs sonder hierdie gesofistikeerde vlak, stel Cropwise Operations produsente in

staat om insetmiddele soos chemikalieë, bemesting, besproeiing en selfs diesel meer optimaal te benut en terselfdertyd die grootste moontlike voordeel uit elke toediening te haal.

Dieselfde is van toepassing met die gebruik van hommeltuie vir verkenning en die insameling van inligting. Die fokus met die gebruik van tegnologie verskil gevolglik, maar die waarde daarvan bly bo verdenking. Só ‘n benadering ontlont ook grootliks die spanning wat soms tussen tegnologie en werkverskaf­ fing bestaan.

Veranderinge in verbruikers se voorkeure en verwagtinge Verbruikers in ontwikkelde lande dring op kos aan wat volhoubaar verbou word en dit plaas produsente se bewerkingspraktyke en gebruik van insetmiddele, veral plaagdoders, onder druk. Maar dit is ook ‘n feit dat hierdie verbruikers nie die enigste mark is nie. Miljoene mense in ons eie land en regoor die wêreld voer ‘n daaglikse stryd om nie honger te gaan slaap nie.

Dit beteken nie dat hulle ‘n stortingsterrein vir minderwaardige en selfs gevaarlike kos mag wees nie. Dit beteken bloot dat ons nie almal om dieselfde beursies meeding nie en dat produsente hul praktyke kan en moet aanpas volgens die mark waarin hulle wil speel.

Vereistes waaraan produsente moet voldoen om veral na die VSA en EU uit te voer, is in sommige gevalle onnodig en onredelik en plaas ‘n baie groot las op produksiekoste. Die besluit om ‘n ander mark te bedien – met dieselfde gehalte maar minder hekkies om oor te spring – kan ‘n wesenlike uitwerking op ‘n plaas se winsgewendheid hê. ‘n Groeiende voorkeur vir plaaslik verboude kos ontsluit verdere geleenthede vir produsente en kan as teenvoeter dien vir langafstand-vervoerkoste en die skokkende toestand van plattelandse paaie. ‘n Meer verfynde benadering tot verbruikers se behoeftes en voorkeure kan produsente ook help om internasionale ekono­ miese verskuiwings beter te hanteer. Gewasdiversifisering, verkenning van nismarkte en ‘n belegging in sterk netwerke is voorbeelde van strategieë wat die veerkrag van individuele produsente en die plaaslike bedryf in geheel ‘n hupstoot kan gee.

Ten spyte van al die uitdagings is landbou steeds ‘n bevredigende bedryf om in te wees. Dit is meer as ‘n loopbaankeuse, dit is ‘n verbintenis tot die mensdom se toekoms op hierdie planeet. Danksy tegnologie beteken boerdery nie meer 'n geïso­ leerde bestaan nie, maar eerder 'n bestaan wat ons in voeling hou met die hartklop van lewe op aarde. Probeer dus om deur ‘n effens ander bril na die bedryf se uitdagings te kyk, en al die geleenthede sal ‘n mens verstom laat staan.

28 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

ALGEMEEN

Sekere aspekte van grond se waarde kan nie in syfers aangetoon word nie. Die miljarde bakterieë wat in grond lewe en onontbeerlik is vir die ontwikkeling van antibiotika en ander medisyne is 'n voorbeeld van hierdie waarde.

Kos begin by grond Die grond waarin ons kos groei word te maklik as vanselfsprekend aanvaar – net soos die lug wat ons inasem en die water wat ons drink. Wêreldgronddag, wat op 5 Desember 2023 gevier is, help met bewusmaking van hierdie lewegewende hulpbron. Syngenta moedig grondgesondheid aan deur op wortelgesondheid te fokus.

Magda du Toit MEDEWERKER

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ie tema van Wêreldgronddag 2023 – grond: waar kos begin – omvat die belangrikheid van hierdie natuurlike hulpbron. Die statistieke is ewe ontsagwekkend as vreesaanjaend en illustreer in geen onsekerheid die verband tussen grondgesondheid, voedselveiligheid en klimaatsverandering: • Slegs ongeveer 7,5% van die aarde se oppervlak bestaan uit landbougrond waarop kos verbou kan word. Hierdie fraksie ding mee met die mensdom se ander behoeftes en begeertes, wat wissel van behuising tot vermaak, nywerhede en militêre komplekse tot stortingsterreine.

• 95% van ons kos kom uit die grond.

• Landbouproduksie moet met 60% toeneem om aan die wêreldwye voedselaanvraag in 2050 te voldoen; volhoubare grondbestuur kan tot 58% meer kos lewer.

• Grond verskaf 15 van die 18 chemiese elemente wat natuur­lik voorkom en noodsaaklik vir plante is.

• 25% van die planeet se biodiversiteit is in grond: een tee­ lepel grond kan meer lewende organismes bevat as wat daar mense op aarde is.

• Grond is die planeet se tweede grootste koolstofstoor.

• 33% van die aarde se grond en meer as die helfte van die landbougrond is in ‘n slegte toestand.

• Dit neem langer as 1 000 jaar om 1 cm grond te laat ontwikkel.

Sekere aspekte van grond se waarde kan egter nie in syfers aangetoon word nie. ‘n Voorbeeld is die miljarde bakterieë wat in grond lewe en onontbeerlik is vir die ontwikkeling van antibiotika en ander medisyne. Gesonde grond absorbeer en suiwer ook water vir menslike gebruik en reguleer die gevolge van oormatige reën deur oorstromings te verhoed. Hierdie ekosistemiese diens gaan in die toekoms toenemend belang­ rik word in die lig van onreëlmatige reënpatrone wat deur klimaatsverandering veroorsaak word.

In voedselproduksie produseer gesonde grond meer voedsame kos en plante wat beter bestand is teen plae en siektes.

Gesonde grond berg ook meer water en stel dit aan plante beskikbaar wanneer reën wisselvallig is. Grond wat swaar reën absorbeer, keer dat lewegewende voedingstowwe uit lande gespoel word.

“Grondgesondheid is uiters belangrik,” sê Stefan van Zyl van Syngenta Seedcare Suid-Afrika. “Die werklikheid dat die

NA BLADSY 30

VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARIE • FEBRUARIE 2024

29

GENERAL

Kos begin by grond VAN BLADSY 29

10 – 30 cm bogrond wat ons in staat stel om kos te produseer binne die volgende 60 jaar op gebruik kan wees, is ‘n wekroep wat geen mens of maatskappy kan bekostig om te ignoreer nie.”

Die rol van wortelgesondheid ‘n Holistiese benadering is die sleutel tot die herstel en besker­ ming van grondgesondheid. “In landbou lê die probleem en inderdaad ook die oplossing in wát ons plant en wannéér ons dit plant, asook die bewerkingspraktyke,” sê Van Zyl. Syngenta Seedcare fokus op dié deel van gewasse wat ten nouste in kontak met die grond is, naamlik die wortels.

Wortels put nie net uit die grond nie; die verhouding tussen die twee is hoogs simbioties. Gesonde grond ondersteun en maak sterk wortelstelsels moontlik, en omgekeerd.

Plantwortels help om gronddeeltjies te bind. Dit skep ‘n stabiele grondstruktuur, voorkom gronderosie en verlies aan bogrond, verbeter waterindringing en verminder kompakte­ ring. Sterk wortelstelsels skep ook kanale in die grond wat lug, water en voedingstowwe toelaat om dieper te penetreer.

Wortelstelsels onttrek wel voedingstowwe uit die grond, maar hulle stel ook organiese verbindings vry wat voordelige mikroörganismes aanlok vir beter sirkulering en beskikbaarheid van voedingstowwe. Deur stowwe vry te stel wat voordelige grondmikrobes voed, dra wortels direk by tot die grond se vermoë om skadelike patogene te onderdruk en organiese materiaal af te breek. Op sy beurt verbeter laasgenoemde koolstofsekwestrasie.

Wortels stel voorts ensieme en verbindings vry wat die chemiese samestelling van die grond rondom hulle kan verander om die oplosbaarheid en beskikbaarheid van voedingstowwe te verbeter. Sekere plante stel ook allelopatiese verbindings vry wat grondorganismes onderdruk wat siektes veroorsaak.

Hierdie natuurlike siektebeheermeganisme dra tot gesonder grond by.

Laastens dien gesonde wortelstelsels as habitat en voedselbron vir grondorganismes wat wissel van erdwurms tot mikorisale swamme – almal noodsaaklik vir beter ekosisteemveerkragtigheid.

Die voordele van saadbehandelings Syngenta se wortelgesondheidsprogram fokus op die behandeling van saad teen swaminfeksies en plantparasitiese aalwurms sodat gewasse stewige, gesonde wortelstelsels kan ontwikkel wat optimaal funksioneer.

Volgens professor Driekie Fourie, nematoloog en spanlid van Syngenta Seedcare, neem aalwurmdruk stelselmatig toe as populasies nie bestuur word nie. Haar navorsing dui ook

aan dat graanwisselboustelsels wat tans in Suid-Afrika gebruik word, bevorderlik is vir aalwurmvermeerdering. “ ’n Holistiese bestuursbenadering is onontbeerlik, siende dat plantparasitiese aalwurms dikwels die deur oopmaak vir sekondêre swaminfeksies en sulke siekte-aalwurmkomplekse vererger oesskade,” sê sy.

Saadbehandeling Van Zyl noem dat saadbehandeling die voorste linie van verdediging teen plantparasitiese aalwurms, swamsiektes en insekaanvalle is, maar dit moet ondersteun word deur bestuurs­ praktyke soos toedienings in vore en onkruidbeheer.

“Een van die grootste gevare vir produsente is grond­ gedraag­ de patogene wat sade tydens plant of saailinge besmet sodra hulle opkom,” sê Van Zyl. Saad wat met ‘n swamdoder behandel word, is ‘n bestuursmeganisme wat die patogeenlading in die rhizosfeer (of wortelmikrobioom) van gewasse beduidend verminder sonder om die lewensvatbaarheid van saad te benadeel.

Met saadbehandeling word die produk ook presies neergesit waar dit nodig is, naamlik rondom die saad en die wortels van die ontwikkelende saailing. Dit beteken dat minder produk en ‘n kleiner toedieningsarea ter sake is in vergelyking met invoor- en blaartoedienings.

Goed geformuleerde produkte, soos Syngenta se APRON Plus Beans, CRUISER White en CELESTE XL, beskerm nie net sade en saailinge nie, maar bevoordeel ook eenvorminge opkoms en gesonde wortels om vir optimale opbrengs. Verder teiken saadbehandelings plae en laat sodoende voordelige grondorganismes toe om hul goeie werk te doen. Produsente kan ‘n swamdoder en aalwurmdoder in ‘n saadbehandeling kombineer om sekondêre swaminfeksies te verhoed.

“Deur ‘n sleutelkomponent van grondgedraagde siektekomplekse te beheer, naamlik patogeniese swamme, ondersteun swamdoders wat op sade toegedien word boerderypraktyke wat meer volhoubaar en doelmatig is in die belang van grond- en plantgesondheid,” sê Van Zyl. In kombinasie lewer gesonde grond en gesonde wortelstelsels beter resultate en word die doelwit om meer kos met minder insetmiddele te produseer, meer bereikbaar. Daar word gereken dat produsente tans soveel as 30-40% van hul opbrengste aan plae en siektes afstaan. Beter grondbestuur kan dit verander.

Soveel as wat kos by grond begin, begin dit ook by wortels. Die wekroep is dus hard en duidelik: produsente regoor die wêreld moet hul rol en verantwoordelikheid as die primêre versorgers van landbougrond aangryp ter wille van beide voedselsekerheid en die bestuur van klimaatsverandering.

30 VEGETABLES & FRUIT | JANUARY • FEBRUARY 2024

Breëspektrum Insekbeheer vir Groeikragtige Gewasse

Circaden

®

Insekbeheer aangedryf deur

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.

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