Vegetables & Fruit November/December 2024

SAMAC hosts MacDay 2024

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COVER

Steynsrust Boerdery has been crowned the Mayo Macs Top Grower of the 2023 macadamia season.

EDITORIAL

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NEWS

4 The ARC to lead Africa's scientific voice at the 10th Science Summit

4 Westfalia delivers first avocado shipment to China

5 No new greening disease in SA

5 Suid-Afrikaanse appels en pere skitter in Indië

6 Steenhuisen’s vision for agriculture as ‘engine room of SA economic growth’

7 Squeezing success from challenges and opportunities

7 Westfalia Fruit appoints Chris Bush as CEO

08

MACADAMIA

Steynsrust Boerdery, pioneering the future of macadamia farming

10 The thermal biology of the macadamia nut borer

12 SAMAC hosts MacDay 2024

14 Resilient yields, even in tough seasons

16 Establishing accurate crop removal values

SUB-TROPICAL FRUIT

18 Potensiaal in nuwe uitvoermarkte maar ook hindernisse vir SA vrugte

19 Subtrop behaal sukses vir produsente

GENERAL

20 Water is lewe: Skeduleer besproeiing vir optimale wortelontwikkeling en gesondheid

22 Latest research: Iodine

24 Promising future for sought-after South African Pink Lady apples

26 The transformation and challenges of the South African garlic industry

27 Uitnemende jongboere gekies vir SA titel

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29 Growth through exports

30 Navigating logistical challenges in the South African stonefruit export season

The ARC to lead Africa’s scientific voice at the 10th Science Summit

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) participated in the 10th Science Summit, part of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79), which was held in New York, USA. The summit, under the theme “How science and innovation accelerate the achievement of the sustainable development goals”, brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and scientists worldwide, including Africa, to tackle urgent sustainable development challenges.

As a leading African science council member and a strategic partner of Intelligence in Science, the ARC represented Africa’s scientific community as co-conveners of the summit. The ARC’s participation spotlighted the continent’s role in addressing food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture, aligning with the UN’s Agenda 2030. The focus was on how cutting-edge agricultural research can help achieve key sustainable development goals, especially SDG 2 (zero hunger) and SDG 13 (climate action).

Despite agriculture being a significant economic sector in Africa, employing over 60% of the population, the continent remains one of the most food-insecure regions globally. Challenges such as low productivity, dependence on rain-fed farming, and climate change vulnerability persist. The ARC’s involvement in the summit highlighted its commitment to promoting resilient agricultural systems and sustainable develop-

ment through innovative research and technology transfer.

At the summit, the ARC hosted several sessions, including a session focused on showcasing Africa's contributions to global agricultural research. The CEO and President, Dr Litha Magingxa, led a panel discussion on harnessing science for agricultural transformation in Africa. The session was an opportunity to put the African transformation agenda on a global stage.

Many governments often overlook agricultural research despite its significant contribution to the GDP of developing countries and its centrality to food systems. The ARC emphasised the critical need for funding agricultural research to tackle hunger and mitigate the climate crisis, which could threaten African economies if not addressed.

The ARC joined a larger South African delegation led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which includes the department of science and innovation, the national research foundation, and the human sciences research council, all working together to present a unified African perspective in global scientific discussions.

Dr Magingxa said the need for resilient and sustainable agricultural systems has never been more urgent. “Through our participation in the Science Summit, the ARC aims to drive transformative solutions that support Africa’s agricultural development while tackling global challenges such as climate change and food security.”

Westfalia delivers first avocado shipment to China

Westfalia Fruit, a multinational supplier of avocados and fresh fruit, has sent the inaugural shipment of avocados from South Africa to China. The first container of South African avocados from Westfalia Fruit arrived in Shanghai, where the Shanghai Customs conducted the inspection.

“This achievement not only strengthens Westfalia Fruit’s presence in one of the world’s largest economies but also underscores their broader strategy of entering high-potential global markets, such as the successful entrance into India a few years ago. It represents a major step forward in Westfalia’s global expansion and is a landmark achievement for the South African avocado sector,” the company notes in a statement.

The historic moment and the container will be featured at the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE), where it will be recognised as the first such import from South Africa. To mark the occasion, an open ceremony will be held at Huizhan Market in Shanghai, with some of the avocados being sent to retail supermarkets across southern and northern China.

This shipment follows the successful conclusion of a phytosanitary agreement between South Africa and China, signed in August 2023, after years of dedicated efforts to secure access to this vital market. With China’s rapidly growing demand for fresh produce, particularly premium fruits like avocados, South Africa is well-positioned to diversify its export markets.

South Africa’s geographical advantage shorter transit times compared to Latin American suppliers, gives the country a competitive edge in delivering fresh, high-quality avocados to China. This development positions South African avocados as a premium product in the Chinese market, providing a timely alternative to other international suppliers, especially during peak seasons when supply constraints are expected.

As one of the world’s largest markets, China represents a tremendous opportunity for Westfalia Fruit. This market access will enable the company to ensure a steady supply of avocados during critical periods, enhancing its position as a global leader in the avocado industry.

Hans Boyum, Commercial Director for Africa at Westfalia Fruit, said: “As we celebrate our first shipment of Westfalia Fruit avocados to China, we are thrilled to mark this significant milestone for our company and the South African avocado industry. This achievement highlights our commitment to quality and sustainability and reinforces our dedication to expanding our global footprint. We look forward to sharing our exceptional avocados with consumers in China and establishing a strong, lasting presence in this vibrant market.”

China’s expanding middle class and increasing demand for healthy, nutritious food make it a key growth market for South African avocados.

No new greening disease in SA

The Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) recently clarified that a new greening disease is not threatening the local citrus industry.

African citrus greening (ACG) is under official control in South Africa, and it prevents the movement of propagation material from greening areas to greening-free areas. It is important to note that ACG cannot be spread by fruit or seed, and there is no restriction on the movement of citrus fruit - which applies worldwide. Therefore, the CGA says any suggestion that export citrus can spread this disease is incorrect.

According to a statement by the CGA, some media outlets incorrectly reported that South Africa “faces a new disease threat” in the form of “the African strain of the citrus-greening disease”. This also incorrectly conflates two diseases.

Huanglongbing (HLB) or Asian citrus greening, sometimes casually referred to as yellow dragon, is a feared citrus disease and has caused devastation in some citrus-producing regions worldwide. This disease is not present in South Africa.

On the other hand, African citrus greening has been reported in South Africa since 1932 and has been managed with great success since then. ACG was detected in October 2023 near Gqeberha, in an area where it has not been detected before. ACG is caused by an entirely different species of bacteria, spread by an entirely different vector, and is a citrus disease that is not nearly as dangerous as HLB.

The detection of ACG in Gqeberha required further control measures (control of the insect vector and infected plant material) to continue successfully preventing the spread to commercial citrus production areas.

“To link ACG in any way with current cases at the World Trade Organisation on unnecessary and trade-restrictive citrus

black spot (CBS) and false codling moth (FCM) measures is inappropriate. The CBS and FCM cases filed against the European Union are unrelated to ACG.”

African greening is not a threat to the future of the South African citrus industry, says the CGA. “The future of the industry is looking bright. Despite climatic and other economic factors that had a somewhat dampening effect on projected export volumes, the industry is on course to continue its impressive growth trajectory in the next few years. This is a testament to the hard work of the growers, the quality of our fruit and the robust phytosanitary measures implemented by the South African government and the industry itself.”

Suid-Afrikaanse appels en pere skitter in Indië

HORTGRO

Suid-Afrikaanse appels en pere het die Indiese mark soos die Springbokke se ‘bomb squad’ getref. In so ‘n mate dat daar kommer oor interne mededinging is.

Suid-Afrikaanse soet peer-variëteite het ander pere van regoor die wêreld uitgestof en vervang met hul voortreflike gehalte en standhoudende aanbod. Dit was die boodskap van Shubha Rawal, hoof van verkryging by IG International, by die Suider-Afrika-konferensie van die International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) wat onlangs gehou is. Rawal het die ongeëwenaarde sukses van Suid-Afrikaanse vrugte beklemtoon.

Terwyl ander streke sukkel om tred te hou met prysinflasie, het Suid-Afrikaanse pere nie net die uitdagings weerstaan nie, maar ook in die bloeiende Indiese ekonomie gefloreer. Volgens Rawal het post-COVID-gesondheidsbewussyn Indië se eetgewoontes verander, met vars, voedsame produkte soos sitrus, avokado’s en nou pere wat voorkeur kry.

Suid-Afrikaanse peeruitvoer na Indië was só suksesvol dat daar nou vrese is dat die verskillende kultivars mekaar in die Indiese mark kan begin ‘kannibaliseer’. Hortgro het die afgelope dekade daaraan gewerk om Suid-Afrika se uitvoermarkte te diversifiseer en die fokus weg te skuif van tradisionele bestemmings in die Noordelike Halfrond, soos Europa en die Verenigde Koninkryk.

In 2006 het Suid-Afrika 108 452 ton pere uitgevoer, waarvan 83% na die Verenigde Koninkryk, die Europese Unie en Rusland gegaan het, en net 13% is na Afrika, die Midde-Ooste, die Verre Ooste en Asië. Teen 2023 het uitvoer tot 224 220 ton gestyg, met slegs 50% wat na tradisionele markte gegaan het en 46% is na ontluikende markte soos Indië.

Dit is egter nie net pere waarvoor die Indiese mark lus is nie. Volgens Hortgro se bestuurder van markte en handel, Jacques du Preez, het Suid-Afrikaanse appeluitvoer na Indië nog meer toegeneem. “Tot op hede het ons vanjaar net minder as drie miljoen kartonne uitgevoer, wat 54% meer is as verlede jaar.”

Orange citrus trees orchard infected with Huanglongbing (HLB) or Asian citrus greening.

Steenhuisen’s vision for agriculture as ‘engine room of SA economic growth’

He may not have attracted too many headlines, but South Africa's new Minister of Agriculture has begun engaging directly with the fresh produce industry and has declared his department’s intent to support and grow one of the country’s essential food security pillars.

Many political waves have been breaking around South Africa’s new Government of National Unity (GNU), with local media honing in on the interactions between the different political parties and leaders. John Steenhuisen, South Africa’s new Minister of Agriculture, has attracted particular attention to establishing the team supporting his new office.

Thus far, little focus has been placed on his strategic approach to this key ministry, but Steenhuisen has already given important indications as to how he intends to operate in the years ahead. Most notably, Steenhuisen attended the RSA Group stakeholder dinner last month, where he gave a speech and interacted with leading fresh produce industry figures, including representatives from key agri-representative bodies.

“Direct engagement with government is crucial to the posi-

tive future of the fresh produce industry,” says Jaco Oosthuizen, CEO of the RSA Group, one of South Africa's leading fresh produce sales organisations. “It was essential for South African fresh produce stakeholders to hear the minister's views on the industry's future and to get a sense of his priorities. All involved appreciated his presence at the event and his willingness to engage.”

In his speech, Steenhuisen stated that he viewed agriculture as the “engine room of economic growth, job creation and greater prosperity for South Africa”. He highlighted that while the country’s agriculture sector is largely unsubsidised –unlike most global economies – it nonetheless performs with strength in terms of commercial viability and food security.

He then laid out his department’s future priorities, which include active partnerships between government and agri stakeholders, creating an enabling legislative and regulatory framework and improving biosecurity and phytosanitary protocols to enable better access to new markets. He also intended for his department to be highly responsive to industry stakeholders via an open-door communication policy and focus on improving crucial surrounding infrastructure supporting agriculture value chains.

“The South African fresh produce industry is the backbone of national food security and performs exceptionally well in the face of significant headwinds,” says Oosthuizen. “The hope from all stakeholders is that positive, direct engagement with the government will allow our industry to address its challenges and open up more development opportunities for new entrants. With the right kind of delivery from government, and with effective government/industry partnerships in place, there is no doubt we can empower many more emerging farmers while bolstering the strength of the crucial informal sector and offering attractive investment opportunities.”

Steenhuisen also addressed his department’s intent to implement the South African Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan while amending aspects of the plan that need attention. He announced “sustainability, viability and profitability” as critical watchwords for the agriculture department moving forward. He emphasised a long-term focus on opening new international markets and gaining total value from global, Southern African and African trade agreements.

“Interactions such as these can be a crucial stepping stone that allows government and the industry to work together coherently,” says Oosthuizen. “If we can follow up the positive intent with clear, coordinated actions, the South African fresh produce industry has enormous potential to deliver even more economic growth and employment opportunities to the country.”

Minister John Steenhuisen and RSA Group board members: Andries Erasmus, Johan Koen, Jaco Oosthuizen, and Tshepo Dhlamini.

Ayanda Kanana, Halls Fresh Produce CEO, with Minister Steenhuisen.

Matome Ramokgopa, Enza Zaden Africa General Manager, with Minister Steenhuisen.

ISqueezing success from challenges and opportunities

n the verdant expanses of South Africa, the citrus industry emerges as a cornerstone of the nation's agricultural and economic landscape. At the heart of this burgeoning sector is FreshCo Citrus, co-managed by Clint MacAleer. MacAleer's recent conversation with MJ van der Mescht of InteliGro Crop Advisor illuminates the complexities and potential of this vibrant industry.

Exporting approximately 70% of its citrus yield while keeping a significant portion for the local market, South Africa is navigating its way through the global citrus market with strategic insight. The industry faces logistical hurdles, particularly concerning port capacity. Still, MacAleer notes that Port Elizabeth is a beacon of efficiency, largely thanks to collaborative efforts with the Citrus Growers Association and local stakeholders.

The role of the European and UK markets cannot be overstated, with stringent export regulations and phytosanitary challenges at the forefront. Yet, through proactive engagement with international bodies and a commitment to meeting export standards, South Africa's citrus sector continues to hold its ground globally.

Amidst growth, differentiation becomes key. MacAleer advocates for sustainable practices and scale, emphasising the importance of "doing the right thing at the right time,"

Tirrespective of operation size. His philosophy is anchored in five fundamental principles: prioritising irrigation, surrounding oneself with expertise, focusing on tree nutrition and pest control, and adhering to meticulous picking and pruning practices. Van der Mescht adds timing as an essential factor, underscoring that even the best practices must be applied judiciously.

Data-driven decision-making, particularly in irrigation, is transforming the industry. With tools like InteliGro's Intelekt 4U application, growers can now access actionable insights on soil moisture and other critical parameters, enabling precise and informed agricultural practices.

Looking ahead, MacAleer and Van der Mescht view the citrus industry as a vital contributor to South Africa's economic resilience, job creation, and investor confidence. Yet, at the core of their success is a mutual recognition of the value of expertise and collaboration. This partnership exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between technology, knowledge, and agricultural prowess.

In the end, MacAleer's trust in InteliGro and the importance Van der Mescht places on client confidence encapsulate a broader narrative of trust, expertise, and mutual success - a recipe for thriving in the challenging yet rewarding world of citrus cultivation.

Westfalia Fruit appoints Chris Bush as CEO

he Board of Hans Merensky Holdings (HMH) and Westfalia Fruit Group (Westfalia) announced the appointment of Chris Bush to the post of Group CEO. Bush will take over from Acting Group CEO Rian du Toit, who will return to his role as Group Financial Officer.

Chris Bush, a graduate of Manchester Business School and INSEAD, is a highly experienced international CEO with almost 40 years of experience working across grocery retail. He has led vastly complex multinational organisations, driving growth and turnaround across various geographies. Throughout his career, Chris has lived and worked in Europe, the USA, and Asia.

“After an extensive global search process, the Board is delighted to welcome Chris Bush as our new Group Chief Executive,” says HMH and Westfalia Fruit Group Chairman, Dr Khotso Mokhele. “Chris is a seasoned CEO with excep-

tional strategic capabilities, proven operational effectiveness, and strong experience in retail, as well as working across a breadth of different countries and cultures.”

Bush said he is honoured and delighted to join an organisation so clearly dedicated to innovation, product quality and sustainability. “I am inspired by the company’s stated mission to address climate change by following in the footsteps of the company’s founder, Dr Hans Merensky, to do good and contribute to a better planet for future generations.

“I am excited to meet the talented team, customers, communities, and stakeholders worldwide to listen and learn how together we can maximise our growth potential and build sustainable, long-term success.”

Chris Bush new Group CEO for Westfalia.

Steynsrust Boerdery, pioneering the future of macadamia farming

Steynsrust Boerdery has been crowned the Mayo Macs Top Grower of the 2023 macadamia season for both the Lowveld region and South Africa, a testament to the farm's dedication to excellence in macadamia production.

Fritz Ganz CONTRIBUTER

At the heart of this success story is Gert Lubbe, a fifthgeneration farmer whose journey from a mechanical engineer to an agricultural visionary encapsulates a love for the land that spans generations.

Gert Lubbe's transition into farming is a narrative of passion over profession. Initially setting his sights on leaving the corporate grind by 45 to embrace farm life, Lubbe, albeit a year later than planned, took the reins at the ripe age of 46. His collaboration with Elsa Steyn, a descendant of the original landholder Willem Sternberg Steyn, marks a continuum of farming heritage that began in 1928 with the acquisition of the farm Schagen in the Nelspruit district.

With a background in mechanical engineering, Lubbe's hands-on approach has fundamentally transformed the 60-hectare farm's operations. From personally planting each macadamia tree to installing the farm's irrigation systems, his ingenuity shines through in the meticulous design and layout aimed at optimising time, notably in crop-dusting efforts.

As Lubbe reiterates, farming comes with its set of chal-

lenges shared across the agricultural spectrum. A strong water source remains crucial, while pests and diseases pose relentless hurdles. Lubbe emphasises the importance of community communication in synchronising spray regimes, underscoring the balance between proactive measures and the unpredictability inherent in farming.

When asked what his perspective is on the potential future advancements or changes which could shape the macadamia industry, his passion for the industry is almost contagious. His answer, though, could be summed up with price and marketing. Nut in shell (NIS) prices were roughly R100/kg three years ago. This year, the average NIS price stands at R35/kg. From a business perspective, if prices drop too low, farmers will be unable to cover overheads, and the business model will fail.

Compared to other nuts in the world, macadamias are the nuts that produce the lowest. Countries like India do not even know what a macadamia is. Therefore, major marketing is required to educate the world about macadamias, which, in turn, should increase demand. He says SA Macadamia (SAMAC) has already started with big marketing plans for this reason.

Coinciding with this, SAMAC is working with the govern-

ment to open new export markets, which will significantly impact production in South Africa. Young crops that have already been planted and will be in full harvest within the next five years will double the local production statistics by then, a simple economic question of supply and demand.

Innovations in farming practices

More on the practical side, Lubbe uses micro-irrigation to save water. Drip irrigation is currently being researched, but microirrigation is the preferred method. With the pruning of trees, they follow an approach whereby they cut 'windows' on both sides of the trees for better and deeper exposure to sunlight. This reduces density issues within the orchard and contributes to effective spraying.

Feeding the trees, they use a combination of fertigation for root growth, spraying for leave-growth, and general application of fertiliser granules. A few years back, Steynsrust Boerdery had also set up its own drying facility, leading to and allowing for better management.

In a reflection, Lubbe acknowledges the inherent challenges of agriculture, attributing the farm's achievements to continuous quality assurance and proactive management. The unexpected recognition as the top grower serves as a reminder of Steynsrust Boerdery's unwavering commitment to excellence in the face of agriculture's cyclical nature.

As Steynsrust Boerdery looks to the future, Gert Lubbe's story is a beacon for aspiring farmers and a testament to the enduring legacy of those who cultivate the earth. Steynsrust's recognition celebrates the fruit of tireless labour and signals a bright future for macadamia farming in South Africa and beyond. Lubbe added that everything they have achieved was only possible by the grace of God.

Gert Lubbe, a fifth-generation farmer from Steynsrust Boerdery.

Beatrice Ngobeni and Khethile Msimango - temporary workers at the Steynsrust Boerdery.

Jose Zavale has been with the Steynsrust Boerdery for more than 11 years.

The thermal biology of the

macadamia nut borer

In agricultural science, understanding the enemy is half the battle won. This adage rings especially true in the case of the macadamia nut borer (MNB), a pest that has long plagued macadamia orchards with its larvae. The thermal biology project, spearheaded by Dr Elsje Joubert from the University of Venda, has embarked on an ambitious journey to unravel the thermal biology of the macadamia nut borer.

Anovel approach was at the heart of this scientific inquiry: establishing a captive population of MNB sourced directly from the wild individuals found within the orchards they afflict. This initial step involved meticulous weekly collections of infested nuts, which were then placed at the base of large mesh cages designed to mimic their natural environment while allowing for controlled observation.

These cages, measuring 1 m in height and 0,5 m in width and length, became the crucible for a series of groundbreaking observations. With a density of 100 nuts per cage, researchers meticulously monitored the moths' emergence, recording the date and gender of each specimen. This rigorous data collection process uncovered a significant insight: the tendency of many MNB larvae to exit the infected nuts prematurely when collected from the field, underscoring the importance of immediate containment in ventilated, closed-based containers for accurate study.

Delving into the life cycle

The researchers' dedication extended to the intricate stages of MNB development. Observations revealed larvae predominantly feeding on the husk's placenta, though some completed their lifecycle within the nut and shell. The establishment of mating and oviposition containers filled with waste cotton wool, fresh uninfected nuts, and parafilm facilitated a closer examination of the reproductive behaviours and preferences of the MNB under controlled conditions.

This controlled environment allowed for the detailed study of neonate larvae, introduced to a modified facing moth diet, following the methodology outlined in Ashley Smith's pioneering master's thesis. These larvae were individually housed, providing a unique lens to observe the developmental stages and survival rates under specific temperature and humidity conditions.

Revelatory findings and their implications

At a constant 25 °C and 65% relative humidity, the MNB demonstrated a lifecycle spanning 37 days, with wild females reproducing predominantly between the second and third days post-emergence. The survival rate peaked at 26%, representing a significant milestone in understanding the pest's biology. Additionally, the study delineated four distinct larval instars, with the larval stage lasting an average of 15 days and an 89% survival rate to the pupal stage.

Statistical analysis underscored the expected trend: all stages of development slowed under cooler temperatures, affec-

ting survival rates, sex ratios, and reproductive timelines. Optimal sex ratios and longer development times were observed at the coolest temperatures tested, offering vital insights into the thermal biology of the MNB and its implications for macadamia nut agriculture.

Perhaps most critically, the study identified specific thermal limits for later larval stages, marking the temperature points at which coordinated muscle function ceased. This aspect of the research is particularly significant, indicating potential stress responses in the field, especially under heat wave-like conditions, which proved detrimental to the fourth larval instar.

Summary of the results

A laboratory culture of MNB was established from field-collected infected macadamias. More eggs survived at higher temperatures, with the optimal being 24 °C. The complete larva developmental stage lasted ± 14 days, between 25 – 30 °C, with 89% survival rates recorded at 25 °C. The 3rd and 4th (late) larva instars showed significantly higher critical thermal maximum thresholds and significantly lower thermal minimum thresholds, indicating increased thermal tolerance as larva development progressed.

Acclimation responses showed that the late larval instars and male moths could acclimate to improve performance at low and high temperatures. To kill 95% of the larval instars in a matter of an hour, temperatures of 45 °C or -15 °C should be exceeded, and adults are killed within 24 hours at temperatures exceeding 41 °C and -8 °C. Pupae developed more slowly at 20-25 °C (12-17 days respectively), but cooler temperatures resulted in higher pupal survival rates (90-92% respectively) and more balanced male-to-female ratios. Adult survival was higher at 20 °C, lasting up to 21 days, with females producing up to 16 eggs, each peaking at 6-6 days after emergence, but the egg survival was very low here.

Toward sustainable solutions

These findings have profound implications for macadamia growers and agricultural scientists. By understanding the MNB's thermal preferences and developmental timelines, strategies can be developed to mitigate its impact on macadamia yields. This could involve adjusting harvesting schedules, implementing targeted pest control measures at critical points in the MNB's life cycle, or even exploring the potential for breeding macadamia varieties with increased resistance to the borer.

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SAMAC hosts MacDay 2024

Macadamias South Africa recently hosted MacDay 2024, an industry-leading event bringing together growers and key stakeholders from the macadamia value chain.

With the global demand for macadamia nuts steadily increasing, Lizel Pretorius, CEO of Macadamias South Africa (SAMAC), emphasised the industry's commitment to spreading awareness about the numerous health benefits of macadamias. “As the healthiest nut on the block, macadamias are not just a delicious snack but a nutritional powerhouse.”

The keynote address delivered by Robby Kuyetin, an accomplished adventurer and mountaineer, was a true highlight. Kuyetin's inspiring journey from being wheelchair-bound to conquering some of the world’s highest peaks resonated deeply with attendees, offering valuable insights into overcoming obstacles - lessons directly applicable to the macadamia industry as it faces challenges such as market fluctuations

and agricultural pests and diseases.

Day one of the conference addressed critical issues, including macadamia felted coccid, a significant pest affecting the Lowveld region, along with comprehensive discussions on stink bug control, pest biology applications, and flower blight management. Esteemed experts like Dr Gerda Fourie contributed their expertise on dieback disease and stress factors, providing actionable solutions to pressing challenges.

On day two, the focus shifted to horticultural research and the concept of mindful superfoods, with speakers discussing the eight drivers of growth for the macadamia industry. Additionally, insights from other agricultural sectors, such as avocados and mushrooms, enriched the discussions and offered fresh perspectives on innovation and market expansion.

MacDay 2024 concluded with engaging show and tell sessions, where delegates learned about critical issues such as pests and diseases. With over 45 exhibitors showcasing their latest products and services, the event underscored the macadamia industry’s dynamic nature.

As Pretorius reflected, “We are moving forward together as an industry, fuelled by momentum. This conference exemplifies our collective drive to maintain South Africa’s position as the world's largest producer of macadamias. We look forward to growing from strength to strength in the years ahead.”

Nicolette Jacobs from Instrutec.

Jarques Bezuidenhout from Corruseal. Adrian Padt and Tracy du Plessis from DryMac Pty.

Bernhard Jordaan from Top Nut.

Yolandi Muller from Amorentia.

Simone Schutte, Benadea Lubbe and Simeon Ndou from Braemar Nuts.

Dewald Kamffer from RealPM and Ri-Ellen Kemp from Moorland Seedlings.

Tina Herbison from the World Macadamia Organisation.

Dr Gerda Fourie from the University of Pretoria spoke about understanding the macadamia felted coccid in South Africa.

Resilient yields, even in tough seasons

The use of seaweed biostimulants in agriculture is not new. Today, when farmers spray Kelpak® on seedlings, they are no longer surprised by the number of roots developed, or by the vigour of their crops. Similarly, when they include Kelpak® in their programmes, they expect to see larger table grapes and an increased number of fruits and nuts on their trees. The use of Kelpak® in production practices has become the norm.

Heino Papenfus

It is also not new for farmers to turn to Kelpak® when they need to recover a crop damaged by an accidental herbicide spray, an unexpected cold front, or the extreme heat waves that South Africans know so well. There are indeed many stories of using Kelpak® to recover crops after X, Y, or Z has happened. However, it is difficult to show the result of that incredible recovery, as it is rarely documented — unless you happen to conduct a trial at the exact time when that stress occurs. This trial is one such instance.

Kelp Products International, the manufacturer of Kelpak®, began conducting trials on macadamia nuts in Malawi in 1999.

To date, this seaweed biostimulants has significantly improved yields in 15 independent, statistically sound trials. Every month for five months, the biostimulant is sprayed on the flowers and developing macadamia nuts, which results in more nut set, less nut drop, higher crack-out, and ultimately improved yields. These results are not limited to macadamias. Similar responses have been observed globally in almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts. When environmental conditions are favourable, farmers can enjoy an excellent return on their investment. But what about when conditions are poor?

Kelp Products International conducted two trials in the Nelspruit area on the macadamia cultivar Nelmac-2 between 2022 and 2024. The same trees were used in both trials, and stand-

Figure 2. The effect of Kelpak® on yield improvement in macadamia nut cv. Nelmac-2 under cold conditions during flowering (2023-2024) in Nelspruit. Bars represent means, and different letters indicate significant differences according to the Student-Newman-Keuls multiple range test (P<0.05).

Figure 1. The effect of Kelpak® on yield improvement in macadamia nut cv. Nelmac-2 under normal growing conditions (2022-2023) in Nelspruit. Bars represent means, and different letters indicate significant differences according to the Student-Newman-Keuls multiple range test (P<0.05).

ard farming practices were maintained for all trees. During the first year, growing conditions were good, and the first Kelpak® spray was applied on August 10, 2022. At the start of the trial, the trees were eight years old, with 250 trees per hectare. The seaweed biostimulant, applied five times at monthly intervals at the recommended dose of 200 ml/100 L of water, increased nut retention (nut retention = nut set - nut drop) from 1,3 to 1,5 nuts per raceme and improved crack-out from 34% to 36% compared to the control group (Figure 1). Overall, yield increased significantly from 1 648 kg/ha dry nut in shell (DNIS) for the control group to 2 223 kg/ha for the Kelpak® treatment, representing a yield improvement of 575 kg/ha or 35% (Figure 1). Over 25 years of trials, the average yield improvement with

Kelpak® is 24%, so this yield response was well within expectations.

During 2023-2024, an unexpected cold spell drastically reduced ambient air temperatures and blanketed the nearby Drakensberg mountains with snow (Figure 3). This cold spell had severe consequences for nut set in the area, with some lowlying farms reporting very few nuts on their trees, especially on Nelmac-2 macadamias, which flower early. The trial proceeded as in 2022, and Kelpak® was applied for the first time on 24 August 2023. Unsurprisingly, yield was severely affected by the cold stress during flowering, reducing the yield of the control trees to 910 kg/ha compared to 1 648 kg/ha in the previous season (Figure 1 and 2).

Despite the challenging season, the application of the seaweed biostimulant significantly improved nut retention, crackout, and yield compared to the control (Figure 2). While the effects of the cold spell could not be completely mitigated — no remedy on the market can fully counteract severe stress — Kelpak® helped produce 357 kg more nuts, softening the impact of the cold weather during the flowering period.

Kelpak® continues to demonstrate its value as a reliable biostimulant, even under less-than-ideal growing conditions. While no solution can fully eliminate the impact of extreme environmental stressors, this seaweed biostimulant consistently improves crop resilience, yield, and quality. As climate variability becomes a growing concern for farmers worldwide, tools like Kelpak® offer a practical way to safeguard productivity and maintain profitability, helping farmers weather the storms — both figuratively and literally.

NATURAL

Kelpak, a natural seaweed biostimulant, is scientifically proven to benefit pollen tube development and germination leading to improved nut-set and nut-retention. This results in more nuts and a higher kernel weight per tree. In a nutshell, that means significantly increased profits for you the grower.

Figure 3. Snow on the foothills of the Drakensberg near Nelspruit.

Establishing accurate crop removal values

In

the verdant orchards of South Africa, where the macadamia nut has emerged as a crop of significant economic importance, a pioneering study is shedding new light on the nuanced

needs of these trees.

Spearheaded by Dr Aleysia Kleinert of the department of horticultural science at Stanos University, this research delves into the intricate dance of nutrient removal, offering insights vital for sustainable and profitable farming practices in the macadamia industry.

The study focuses on establishing accurate crop removal values - a key piece of the puzzle in understanding the nutrient requirements of macadamia trees. With the industry's rapid growth and the environmental pressures of modern agriculture, such data is more crucial than ever. The work builds upon a foundation laid by prior studies in Australia but pushes into new territory by examining eight different varieties grown specifically in the South African context.

Nutrient removal, simply put, is the quantity of nutrients taken away from the soil through the harvesting of crops. These values are indispensable for farmers aiming to replenish the soil accurately, ensuring the sustainability of their orchards. Previous research has provided a baseline, but the project seeks to refine this knowledge, tailoring it to the unique conditions and varieties found in South Africa.

One of the study's significant revelations is the variability in nutrient removal across different varieties and production areas. This finding suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach to fertilization may not be adequate; rather, a more nuanced, site-specific strategy may be required to optimise yield and maintain soil health.

The research meticulously measured nutrient levels in the macadamia's husks, shells, and kernels, using sophisticated ICP analysis techniques at the central analytical facilities of Stanos University. This allowed for an unprecedented level of detail in understanding how different components of the nut contribute to overall nutrient removal.

Among the most compelling aspects of the study are the comparisons drawn between South African varieties and those grown in Australia, as well as the internal control varieties used to benchmark the data. This comparative approach highlights the unique characteristics of South African macadamias and

opens the door for international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The implications of the findings extend far beyond the immediate operational concerns of nutrient replenishment. They touch on broader themes of environmental sustainability, economic viability, and global food security. By providing a clearer picture of the nutrient dynamics at play, the research supports the development of more sustainable management practices, reducing the risk of over-fertilization, and its associated environmental impacts.

Moreover, the study's insights into the variability in nutrient removal by variety and region underscore the importance of genetic diversity and local adaptation in crops. As climate change continues to challenge agricultural systems worldwide, understanding and leveraging this diversity will be key to resilience and sustainability.

The project also serves as a model for the kind of interdisciplinary, applied research that is increasingly recognised as essential in tackling modern agriculture's complex problems. By combining rigorous scientific methods with a clear focus on practical applications, Dr Kleinert and her team are contributing to a more sustainable, productive future for the macadamia industry and beyond.

The research led by Dr Kleinert represents a significant step forward in the understanding of macadamia cultivation in South Africa. By illuminating the specific nutrient removal values of different varieties and highlighting the need for region-specific management practices, the study offers valuable guidance for farmers, agronomists, and policymakers alike. As the macadamia nut continues to gain prominence on the global stage, such knowledge will be instrumental in ensuring the crop's sustainable, profitable cultivation for generations to come.

In the world of agricultural science, where the quest for knowledge is as endless as it is essential, studies like Dr Kleinert's serve as vital milestones on the journey towards a more sustainable and food-secure future.

Broadband®

Broadband® is ’n aanpasbare, toppresterende en betroubare biologiese insekdoder vir die effektiewe beheer van valskodlingmot om die beste gehalte sitrusvrugte vir die oorsese mark te verseker.

Pieter Vermaak

Broadband ® -sitrusboer – Nouvelle La Cotte-boerdery, Letsitele, Limpopo

“ ”

Ons hoof-uitdaging op die plaas en in die gebied is klimaatsverandering wat die afgelope vier jaar erge droogte tot gevolg gehad het. En dan natuurlik om ons koste te beperk terwyl ons voldoen aan die behoeftes van die mark – en dit gaan hand aan hand met plaagbeheer. By ons is dit veral swartvlek, vrugtevlieg en nou die laaste ruk valskodlingmot wat ’n geweldige groot rol begin speel en ons uitvoermark kan beïnvloed.

In Letsitele waar Pieter met Star Ruby’s en hoofsaaklik Valencias boer, bly hulle grootste uitdaging insekbeheer, veral valskodlingmot. Valskodlingmot word in meeste lande as ’n fitosanitêre pes geklassifiseer en vrugte wat die lande binnekom word aan streng maatreëls onderwerp. Dit is dus uiters noodsaaklik dat uitvoervrugte vry is van enige tekens van valskodlingmot. Pieter vertel dat hul plaagbeheerprogram reeds in Desember begin wanneer hulle lokaasinsekdoder op hulle vroeë variëteite spuit en daarna opvolg met Broadband ® teen einde Januarie. Dan dien hulle elke tweede maand ’n Broadband ® bespuiting toe asook die lokaasinsekdoder. Vanaf Mei word Broadband ® elke vier weke toegedien.

Pieter het ongeveer drie jaar gelede Broadband ® begin gebruik toe hulle ’n dopluis plaag in van hul Midnight-boorde gehad het. Pieter het sy chemiese agent gekontak vir raad, aangesien hy besef het dat die onthoudingsperiode van die meeste produkte wat hulle op daardie stadium gebruik het, probleme kon veroorsaak. Pieter se agent het Broadband ® aanbeveel, wat baie goed gewerk het. Pieter het ook agtergekom dat op die spesifieke blokke waar Broadband ® gespuit was, hulle ook die laagste valskodlingmot tellings aangeteken het. Dit het die deurslag gegee en dit is die tweede opeenvolgende jaar dat daar byna geen vrugval aangeteken is in die behandelde boorde nie. Verlede jaar het hulle ook geen afkeurings gehad nie, wat beteken dat die beheerprogram werk. Pieter beklemtoon dat deurgaanse monitering en boordinspeksies uiters belangrik is. Pieter sê: “Ek is geleer: Meet is weet”. Volgens Pieter kan valskodlingmot suksesvol beheer word en is die gebruik van Broadband ® op hulle plaas uiters belangrik aangesien die verwagting van oorsese markte is dat jy ’n skoon, mooi vrug na hulle toe sal stuur. Dit kry hulle reg met Broadband ®, veral omdat hulle nog tot in oestyd, valskodlingmot kan beheer en vrugte oorsee stuur sonder dat daar residue is. Volgens Pieter gaan hulle beslis Broadband ® in die komende seisoen by hul program insluit en kan hy met vrymoedigheid die produk vir enige boer aanbeveel.

Potensiaal in nuwe uitvoermarkte maar ook hindernisse vir SA vrugte

Onderwyl baie vrugtebedrywe in Suid-Afrika hul uitbreidings konsolideer, voorsien die avokadobedryf ‘n toename in aanplantings en produksie, danksy onder meer groter marktoegang op buitelandse markte en ‘n toenemende aanvraag.

Tydens die bemarkingsimposium van die subtropiese kwekersvereniging Subtrop wat oorkoepelend Suid-Afrika se avokado-, mango- en lietsjiebedryf administreer, het sprekers uit verskillende sektore ‘n positiewe beeld van hierdie bedrywe se toekoms beskryf.

Positiewe faktore sluit in die regering van nasionale eenheid, verbetering van sommige logistieke sektore wat veral vir vrugteuitvoer van belang is, en die potensiaal van nuwe markte, soos dié van BRICS+-lande.

Subtrop se drie bedrywe verteenwoordig sowat 880 produsente waarvan ongeveer 590 kommersiële produsente is, het Derek Donkin, uitvoerende hoof van Subtrop, tydens die simposium op Witrivier in Mpumalanga gesê.

Gesamentlik lewer hierdie produsente jaarliks ongeveer 230 000 ton avokado’s, mango’s en lietsjies. Die bedryf het sowat 25 500 werkers op plase en in pakhuise en die jaarlikse waarde vir die ekonomie is sowat R4,6 miljard.

Dr Tracy Davids van die buro vir voedsel- en landboubeleid (BFAP) sê tuinbouprodukte soos die subtropiese vrugte is baie belangrik vir Suid-Afrika se uitvoerverdienste. Vir die vrugtebedryf stel een van Suid-Afrika se belangrikste uitvoermarkte, die Europese Unie, egter al hoe strenger vereistes soos fitosanitêre voorskrifte. Sedert 2022 het die vrugtebedryf reeds ongeveer R1,4 miljard bestee aan verpligte lugverkoeling weens die EU se protokolwysigings.

Die plaaslike avokadobedryf het sterk mededinging van produsente in Israel, Spanje, Peru en Kenia. Hoewel Kenia minder avokado’s as Suid-Afrika na die EU uitvoer, is hulle die grootste avokado-uitvoerder in Afrika.

Dr Davids sê Suid-Afrika se avokadobedryf ding weens invoertariewe op ongelyke voet in Oosterse markte mee. In al die Oosterse markte behalwe Japan en Hong Kong is Suid-Afrika aan dieselfde of hoër tariewe as ander produsentelande blootgestel. In hierdie markte het Suid-Afrika geen voordeel bo enige ander belangrike mededinger in die Suidelike Halfrond nie.

Hoewel Tanzanië min avokado’s uitvoer, geniet hulle die voordeel van geen invoertarief na Indië terwyl Suid-Afrika ‘n invoertarief van 30% moet betaal.

Sy het verduidelik hoe belangrik dit is dat die regering se meesterplan vir landbou en agriverwerking, die AAMP wat reeds in 2019 saam met die bedryf ontwikkel is, toegepas moet word. Die suksesvolle toepassing van die AAMP kan in die tuinboubedryf ‘n verdere R7,1 miljard bydra en 633 226 ton meer produkte moontlik maak. Terselfdertyd kan dit ‘n bykomende 22 056 werksgeleenthede in dié deel van die arbeidsmark verskaf en nog 22 000 ha vir tuinbou onder bewerking bring.

Die beduidende voordele wat Suid-Afrika onder die Amerikaanse wet op groei en geleenthede in Afrika (Agoa) geniet moet volgens dr Davids nie gering geskat word nie. Vir die 25 belangrikste landbouprodukte wat na die VSA uitgevoer word het Suid-Afrika in 2022 ‘n tarief van R84,0 miljoen betaal. Sonder Agoa sou hierdie invoertarief R414,4 miljoen beloop het.

Die landbousakekamer Agbiz se ekonoom Wandile Sihlobo beaam dat die AAMP groot voordele vir landbou inhou, dit moet egter toegepas word. In belang van landbou in Suid-Afrika behoort die regering van nasionale eenheid ook aandag te gee aan maatskappye wat met buitensporige tariewe landbouprodukstandaarde moet toepas. Nog ‘n saak vir die regering is die registrasie van middels waarin daar ‘n groot agterstand is en wat produktiwiteit benadeel.

Sihlobo het gesê bioveiligheid in plant- en dieregesondheid, die uitvoer van landbouprodukte, water vir landboubesproeiing en misdaad in die platteland is sake van belang in landbou. Staatinstellings soos die Landbounavorsingsraad, Onderstepoort biologiese produkte en die Landboubemarkingsraad het hernuwing nodig.

Suid-Afrika se lidmaatskap van die BRICS+-groepering bring volgens Sihlobo meer geleenthede en potensiaal vir landbou. Suid-Afrikaanse verteenwoordigers in BRICS+ se sakeraad moet hulle vir laer invoertariewe by deelnemende lande beywer, veral by Indië en China. Nog twee voorkeurmarkte vir Suid-Afrikaanse landbou-uitvoer is Egipte en Saoedi-Arabië. Slegs sowat 10% van Suid-Afrikaanse landbouprodukte is die afgelope tien jaar na BRICS-lande uitgevoer.

Subtrop behaal sukses vir produsente

Twee groot hindernisse om die uitvoervolumes van subtropiese vrugte te vermeerder is lande se invoertarief en fitosanitêre vereistes. Dit kry deurlopend aandag van die subtropiese kwekersvereniging Subtrop, wat oorkoepelend Suid-Afrika se avokado-, mango- en lietsjiebedryf se belange behartig.

Suksesse wat vanjaar met die uitvoer van avokado’s na Indië, China en Japan behaal is, het gevolg na sowat tien jaar se onderhandelings, gelei deur Subtrop en die vereniging se uitvoerende hoof, Derek Donkin. Hy het tydens Subtrop se bemarkingsimposium die deurbraak vergelyk met ‘n skrum op opponente se doellyn wat tien jaar geduur het en nou met drie drieë beloon is.

Lande stel invoertariewe in om hul eie bedrywe te beskerm en vereis fitosanitêre toepassings om nuwe plae en siektes te voorkom. Dit en ander vereistes belemmer Suid-Afrika se uitvoer en kompliseer die logistiek.

Hoewel lietsjies reeds ongeveer nege jaar na die VSA uitgevoer word, het hoeveelhede eers sedert die 2020/21-seisoen begin toeneem. Om hierdie mark verder te kan ontgin is nuwe vroeër en later kultivars nodig. Dit sal ook voordelig wees indien die vereiste van bestraling vervang kan word met kouebehandeling tydens skeepsvervoer. Danksy die Amerikaanse wet op groei en geleenthede in Afrika (Agoa) word lietsjies tariefvry

When the suckers stop feeding, your crop starts flourishing

uitgevoer.

Indië het groot markpotensiaal vir Suid-Afrikaanse vrugte. Mango’s en avokado’s het in die afgelope tien jaar toegang tot Indië verkry maar met beperkings soos ‘n invoertarief van 30% en ‘n fitosanitêre vereiste om metielbromied te gebruik. Donkin sê nuwe Suid-Afrikaanse mangokultivars gaan die bemarkingstyd vergroot en vir avokado’s word bewusmaking onder die bevolking verskerp.

China vereis ook die gebruik van metielbromied by avokado’s, hoewel dit nadelig vir die omgewing is en vir mense se gesondheid kan wees. Die Chinese regering het onlangs die invoertarief van Suid-Afrikaanse avokado's van 30% tot 7% verminder. Peru geniet ‘n nultarief in China.

Hoewel die Japanese mark beperk is, bied dit volgens Donkin ‘n alternatief vir Suid-Afrikaanse avokado’s. Die land het ‘n negatiewe inflasiekoers en die bevolking kry nie salarisverhogings nie, gevolglik daal ander lande se avokado-uitvoer na Japan.

Om fitosanitêre vereistes te vergemaklik het Subtrop en Fruit SA ‘n navorsingsprojek geloods om wetenskaplik te bewys dat harde, onryp avokado’s nie ‘n gasheer vir vrugtevlieë en valskodlingmot is nie. Dit kan lande se vereiste van metielbromied- en kouebehandeling verminder.

START TO FINISH IN 5 DAYS

1 hour after application feeding is stopped completely and irreversibly.

3 to 5 days later they die from hunger – job done.

How to know CHESS® is working:

20 minutes after application, insects’ legs may start twitching.

1 hour after application, insects withdraw their sucking stylets from the plant.

1 – 2 days after application, stinkbug stylets appear bent.

2 – 3 days after application, insects’ abdomens can appear colourless from a lack of food.

3 – 5 days after application, your fields are clean.

Aphids, stinkbugs and whiteflies do damage and transmit viruses when they feed on crops.

Only the suckers die: CHESS® keeps mammals, birds, fish, earthworms and natural enemies safe.

See the DIFFERENCE with CHESS®

Water is lewe:

Skeduleer besproeiing vir optimale wortelontwikkeling en gesondheid

Sedert die ontstaan van die wêreld is die belangrikheid van water onmiskenbaar. Nadat see en land geskei is, het water die aarde deur die eeue help vorm. Water is die oorsaak van goeie en swak oeste, van sewe jaar van droogte tot swaar reën wat vir veertig dae en nagte aangehou het. Water is ’n kritieke deel van gewasproduksie, maar kry in baie gevalle nie die aandag wat dit verdien nie.

Een millimeter reën op ’n hektaar is 10 000 liter water. Indien dit dus 30 mm reën, beteken dit 300 000 liter water oor dieselfde oppervlakte. Indien die infiltrasietempo van die grond oorskrei word, gaan die meeste van die water deur afloop verlore. Die grond se infiltrasievermoë word grootliks deur die grondstruktuur bepaal met voedingselemente, veral magnesium, wat ’n kritiese rol speel in die verbetering van die grond se infiltrasietempo.

Hoewel verskeie handleidings beskikbaar is oor besproeiing en besproeiingskedulering en moderne tegnologie ingespan word om besproeiing te bestuur, bly oorbesproeiing steeds een van die hoofredes vir siektes, laer opbrengste en kwaliteitsprobleme op die plaas. Gewasse gaan deur verskillende ontwikkelingsfases en elke fase het sy eie vereistes ten opsigte van bemesting en waterverbruik. Dit is gevolglik noodsaaklik dat die produsent sy / haar besproeiing sover moontlik vir optimale opbrengste by hierdie vereistes aanpas. Verkeerde of onoordeelkundige besluite kan direk of indirek lei tot oesverliese.

Die bestuur van die plant se wortelsone word dikwels afgeskeep, veral wanneer gewasse onder plastiekbedekking verbou word. Dit is moeilik om te bepaal hoeveel water toegedien word, maar verskeie apparate is beskikbaar wat hiermee kan help. Toerusting soos tensiometers en elektriese weerstandsmeters word oor die algemeen gebruik om die waterhouvermoë van die grondtipe te bepaal of om die water optimaal te gebruik.

Betroubare

lesings

Tydens ‘n onlangse plaasbesoek het die produsent se selfoontoepassing aangedui dat die land besproei moet word en pompe is

outomaties aangeskakel, maar tydens ’n besoek aan die land is daar gesien dat die grond reeds voor die besproeiing baie naby aan veldkapasiteit was. Nie net is dit ’n vermorsing van kunsmis wat geloog word nie, maar die bykomende pompkoste en siektes wat uitbreek kan groot verliese veroorsaak.

Indien toerusting nie gereeld gekalibreer word of reg vertolk word nie, kan dit ook nadelig wees. Profielgate is ’n eenvoudige en praktiese manier om na besproeiing te kyk en dit kan suksesvol saam met ander toerusting gebruik word. ’n Profielgat is een van die akkuraatste metodes om die grootte en diepte van die plant se wortelsone te bepaal en te sien of enige beperkende lae, soos verdigting, voorkom.

Let gerus op, wanneer ’n boer met ’n afgeslyte grondboor of graaf op die plaas rondry, is die kanse goed dat hierdie boer sy besproeiing goed bestuur.

Grondeienskappe bepaal grootliks die grootte van die plant se wortelstelsel. Die wortelstelsel kan bestuur word vandat die saailinge uitgeplant word, sodat dit oor die grootste moontlike oppervlak sonder enige beperkings kan groei.

Die bydrae van organiese materiaal in die grond is ook belangrik en kan bydra tot beter deurlugting, doeltreffende dreinering en verhoogde waterhouvermoë. Die toename in organiese materiaal kan oor die algemeen tot 100 000 liter meer water per hektaar in die grond vashou. Die aktiwiteit van mikrobe in die grond word ook verhoog, wat voordelig is vir gewas- en grondgesondheid.

Verskeie faktore moet in ag geneem word om besproeiing doeltreffend te kan bestuur. Dit is egter nie ’n maklike taak nie en elke land moet anders benader word.

Met weldeurdagte besluite, die nodige inligting en hulpmiddels wat tot die produsent se beskikking is, kan dit egter suksesvol wees:

• Beskikbaarheid, hoeveelheid en tydsduur van elke besproeiing – dit wat optimaal is teenoor wat prakties is vir die produsent of die besproeiingstelsel.

• Waterkwaliteit is baie belangrik.

• Dag- en nagtemperatuur, stralingsintensiteit, wind, reën, humiditeit, dagliglengte en lengte van die groeiseisoen. Al

Besproeiing kan lei tot onegalige plantestand in ’n land met broccoli (links) en kool (regs).

Sakata

Goed-deurlugte groeimedium op saailingstadium bevorder die ontwikkeling van haarwortels.

hierdie aspekte het ’n uitwerking op verdamping in die gewas en die grond.

• Gewas- of variëteiteienskappe ten opsigte van wortelontwikkeling, droogtetoleransie, groeistadiums, voedingsbehoeftes per groeistadium, opbrengspotensiaal en kwaliteit moet in ag geneem word. Die toepassing van verskillende bestuurspraktyke vir elke groeistadium van die plante kan lei tot groot besparings.

• Deur verskillende blokke verskillend te bestuur kan ook vir die produsent inligting verskaf oor die gevolge van spesifieke praktyke. Hoër stikstoftoedienings kan byvoorbeeld op een blok nodig wees as gevolg van loging in die grond, terwyl ’n ander blok wat korter besproei is, ’n besparing van stikstof teweeg kan bring.

• Grondtipe is belangrik as gevolg van tekstuur, struktuur, profieldiepte, beperkende lae, infiltrasietempo, dreinering, deurlugting, waterhouvermoë, voedingselemente, pH, grondtemperatuur en organismes in die grond. Sanderige grond vereis dikwels meer gereelde besproeiing, terwyl kleigrond water langer hou. Swaarder kleigrond kan egter ’n laer infiltrasietempo hê, wat veral met oorhoofse besproeiing tot afloop kan lei.

Besproeiing het ’n belangrike uitwerking op plantgesondheid. Oorbesproeiing van die wortelsone kan lei tot grondsiektes, terwyl onderbesproeiing stremming by plante kan veroorsaak en hulle vatbaar maak vir verskeie bo- en ondergrondse siektes. ’n Variëteit kan byvoorbeeld oor Phytophthora-weerstand beskik, maar oorbesproeiing kan stremming veroorsaak sodat die plant se weerstand ondoeltreffend raak. Oorbesproeiing kan ook veroorsaak dat siektes soos Phytophthora vinniger deur die water versprei, wat in ander omstandighede beheer kon word. Indien die produsent die koste van bemesting en besproeiing kan bereken, kan dit potensiële besparings identifiseer. Besparings van tot 30% is al bereken met geen nadelige gevolge vir opbrengs of kwaliteit nie. Met die verbetering van tegnologie in die landbousektor raak dit makliker om besproeiing doeltreffender te skeduleer, wat gewasproduksie in ’n waterskaars land meer volhoubaar maak. Om die wortelsone optimaal te bestuur word ’n holistiese benadering vereis wat al die faktore van grond, gewasbehoeftes, klimaat, beskikbaarheid van voedingselemente en plantgesondheid in ag neem. Gereelde monitering en aanpassings is die sleutel tot suksesvolle gewasverbouing en ’n optimale wortelsone.

Vrywaring: Hierdie inligting is op Sakata se waarnemings en/of inligting van ander bronne gebaseer. Aangesien gewasprestasie afhang van die interaksie tussen die saad se genetiese potensiaal, die fisiologiese eienskappe daarvan en die omgewing, insluitend bestuurspraktyke, gee Sakata geen uitdruklike of geïmpliseerde waarborg vir gewasse se prestasie relatief tot die gegewe inligting. Sakata aanvaar nie enige aanspreeklikheid vir enige direkte of gevolglike verlies wat te wyte aan enige oorsaak mag ontstaan nie. Lees eers asseblief Sakata Seed Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd se verkoopsvoorwaardes voordat saad bestel word.

Latest research: Iodine

Iodine should be considered a plant nutrient, as Kiferle et al. (2021) conclude.

Although iodine is present everywhere, it is in only small quantities.

Most agricultural topsoil and irrigation water contain deficient concentrations and are often unavailable for plant uptake. A deficiency of iodine in plants is predicted to cause yield losses, like any other plant nutrient deficiency. These are conclusions based on recent scientific research supported by SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera), a company with a long history of providing the world with iodine and fertilisers from the Atacama desert in Chile for human development.

For optimal crop production, iodine should be supplied at the correct dosage. Co-application of iodine with speciality plant nutrition makes it easy for farmers to ensure the right amount of iodine in the nutrient solution and prevents excess uptake of iodine in leaves or fruits.

Iodine has been found to be associated with enzymes in plants. Research suggests that it is important for biological processes such as photosynthesis, energy metabolism, and calcium signalling. Iodine deficiency delays flowering and disrupts root, leaf, and fruit development, as well as plants’ environmental and climatic stress defences.

In the cucumber tunnels where Ultrasol®ine K Plus* (Potassium Nitrate plus 0,1% iodine) was applied, the producer noticed that the leaves were greener. Additionally, crooked fruits were found in the iodine-deficient crop, which is discarded as waste.

These misshapen fruits are a sign of heat or water-deficit stress in the plant (Figure 1). Thirty percent less of these curved fruits were observed in the tunnel where Ultrasol®ine K Plus was applied (Table 1). The supply of iodine with Ultrasol®ine K Plus increased the capacity for photosynthesis of the cucumber plants, resulting in more kilograms per plant and more fruits of higher average weight.

Additionally, iodine reduced the damage caused by climatic stress, preventing waste of production due to crooked cucumbers. By ensuring an adequate iodine supply to the crop, the producer achieved a higher revenue from 11% more yield (Table 1).

Source

Evidences for a nutritional role of iodine in plants. C. Kiferle, M. Martinelli, S. Gonzali, S. Beltrami, P.A. Salvadori, K. Hora, H.T. Holwerda, A. Salzano, A. Scaloni, P. Perata. January 2021, Frontiers in Plant Science, DOI: 10.3389/ fpls.2021.616868

* Reg No K11316 Act 36/1947. Registration holder Sociedad Quimica y Minera (Africa) (Pty) Ltd

Disclaimer: The information herein contained is given to the best of SQM’s knowledge and is believed to be accurate. The conditions of use and application of the suggested recommendations, are beyond SQM’s 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.

Table 1. Yield benefit of the application of Ultrasol®ine K Plus as a source of potassium nitrate

Figure 1. Crooked fruits in the control crop were found to have a much lower incidence in the crop where Ultrasol®ine K Plus was applied.

Promising future for sought-after South African Pink Lady apples

South Africa is rapidly establishing itself as the leading and preferred source of Pink Lady apples from the Southern Hemisphere.

According to data, Pink Lady sales in the United Kingdom (UK) have risen by 13% over the past year, making it the UK’s fastest-growing apple variety. Additionally, it ranks as the most prominent apple variety in the UK, second only to Royal Gala.

“South Africa is the largest producer of Pink Lady apples in the Southern Hemisphere, and, from a supply perspective, the country is becoming synonymous with Pink Lady. I am quite positive about the future of Pink Lady and believe the best is yet to come for South African Pink Lady apples,” says Calla du Toit, procurement manager at Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing and chairman of Pink Lady SA.

South Africa currently produces about five million cartons of Pink Lady apples, with Tru-Cape handling about 20% of the market. The UK receives the majority (approximately 2,1 million cartons), followed by Europe and Africa (1 million cartons each). Other markets where South African Pink Lady apples are doing well include Europe, India, and Vietnam.

“We made good progress in developing new markets over the past five years. We are also optimistic that market access to Thailand, where our competitors sell high volumes of Pink Lady, is imminent,” says Du Toit, who commented on the unbelievable year-round promotional activity for Pink Lady in core markets.

Conrad Fick, marketing director at Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, still remembers when Pink Lady apples appeared on the scene in South Africa at the turn of the century.

“It was a drastic move away from the ordinary red, green, and yellow varieties. One of the reasons for the success of Pink Lady is the effort and money that went into building the brand, which helps drive customers to retail outlets.

“These days, the brand is well positioned as a key retail variety, and Pink Lady is certainly claiming more shelf space and pushing out varieties like Braeburn and Golden Delicious in England, among other places,” says Fick.

South Africa at the forefront

The exceptional quality of Southern Hemisphere Pink Lady apples is particularly sought after, and South Africa is in a great position to take advantage of market opportunities.

Du Toit notes that competitors in the Southern Hemisphere are struggling to keep up with rising cost pressure. Chile’s success with cherries is anticipated to come at the expense of Pink Lady.

“South Africa’s proximity to major markets such as the UK and Europe is to our benefit, as shipping has become more expensive. The UK and Europe prefer the smaller fruit sizes that come out of South Africa, and they also find it convenient to do business with us,” explains Du Toit.

It takes about three weeks for South African fruit to reach the UK, making it possible for local exporters to pack at source, which limits the handling of the fruit and improves quality. TruCape’s packhouses, Ceres Fruit Growers and Two-A-Day boast flow wrap facilities, enabling them to pack Pink Lady apples with a sell-by and best-before date.

“We are in a fortunate position, as not many countries can offer this service,” says Du Toit.

Quality and varieties

South African Pink Lady apples are renowned for their soft, rosy colour and greenish undertones.

“It performs particularly well in areas where colour development is not a problem, and over the years, we could figure out where the best sites are to farm with Pink Lady varieties,” says Du Toit.

Most of the local Pink Lady production takes place in cooler

Lady in Red is a popular variety to market under the Pink Lady brand.

areas such as Bo-Swaarmoed, Witzenberg, the Langkloof, and certain areas of the EGVV area (Elgin, Grabouw, Villiersdorp, and Vyeboom). The Free State typically begins the South African Pink Lady season.

“Understanding your farm and production areas is crucial for planting in locations that experience favourable temperature changes between day and night as autumn begins. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure a reliable water supply, especially since we cultivate late-season varieties that require extended irrigation.”

Tru-Cape’s growers have consistently focused on new cultivars to ensure their Pink Lady apples remain a top choice among the finest pink apple varieties. Cripps Pink was once the standout variety, succeeded by Rosy Glow and Lady in Red, but now the buzz is all about Ruby Mathilda.

This new variety is an enhanced mutation of Cripps Pink, featuring a lovely blushed pink hue (instead of red). Its flavour profile delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, appealing to the taste preferences of European and UK consumers. The first commercial orchards of Ruby Mathilda were planted on Ouplaas and Wakkerstroom in the Witzenberg Valley, both Tru-Cape farms.

“I anticipate that Ruby Mathilda or Lady in Red will replace many Cripps Pink orchards. There is a noticeable rise in tree orders, and producers are increasingly interested in varieties that can be sold under the Pink Lady brand,” says Du Toit.

Mathilda's first commercial orchards were established on Ouplaas and Wakkerstroom in the Witzenberg Valley, both Tru-Cape farms.

Pink Lady apples can be very lucrative, especially based on how much of the harvest can be sold under the Pink Lady label. More and more growers are using nets to protect their crops, ensuring they yield high-quality, flawless fruit for export.

“About 80% of varieties like Ruby Mathilda usually fulfil the requirements. Last season, some cartons sold for more than R500 each in Europe and the UK.”

With this in mind, the South African apple industry's outlook seems pink and promising.

Ruby

South Africa is making significant inroads in the Pink Lady industry, especially in the UK, Europe, and Africa.

The transformation and challenges of the South African garlic industry

In the ever-evolving agricultural landscape of South Africa, the garlic industry has undergone significant changes, facing both challenges and opportunities. The journey of garlic, from a niche crop to a commodity of high demand, reflects the broader trends affecting South African agriculture and offers insights into the resilience and adaptability of its producers.

Garlic has been celebrated for its medicinal properties and distinct culinary uses for centuries. However, the path to success for garlic producers in South Africa has been anything but straightforward. High input costs, the labour-intensive nature of garlic cultivation, and an unpredictable market have posed substantial hurdles. These challenges have led to declining local production, prompting increased garlic imports over the past few years.

Corrie Bezuidenhout, Chairman of the South African Garlic Growers Association (SAGGA) from 2018 to 2024, shed light on the state of the industry at their recent conference. According to Bezuidenhout, many garlic producers have exited the industry due to various obstacles, including the high maintenance required by garlic crops and the mismatch between local garlic varieties and consumer preferences. This has resulted in a significant shift towards imported garlic, raising concerns about the sustainability and self-sufficiency of the local industry.

The rising volume of imported garlic has created a complex scenario for South African producers. Imported garlic, often irradiated and stored for long periods, lacks the freshness and flavour of locally grown varieties. Despite these disadvantages, the sheer volume of imports has overshadowed local production, underscoring the need for a strategic response to reclaim the domestic market.

In response, SAGGA, with the assistance of FC Dubbelman and Associates, successfully initiated a "Sunset Review" on the anti-dumping levy on all fresh garlic imported from China. The review aims to adjust the levy, which is set to expire in 2027, to create a more level playing field for local producers. This move has already resulted in a decrease in Chinese garlic imports, diversifying the sources of imported garlic and presenting challenges and opportunities for the local industry.

Market dynamics and future prospects

The South African garlic market is relatively small, with annual sales totalling approximately 4 806 tons in 2023. Imported garlic accounted for 62% of this volume, highlighting the dominance of foreign products in the market. Most imports in 2023 came from China, followed by Spain, indicating a shift in the sources of imported garlic.

Despite the challenges, there are reasons for optimism. The increase in local garlic prices has sparked interest among new and established producers, suggesting a potential resurgence in local garlic cultivation. The key to success lies in addressing the quality and variety of local garlic to meet consumer ex-

pectations, coupled with strategic marketing and distribution efforts.

The future of the South African garlic industry hinges on several factors. Firstly, improving the quality and appeal of local garlic varieties is paramount. This involves investing in research and development, adopting sustainable farming practices, and enhancing post-harvest handling processes.

Secondly, building strong relationships with retailers and consumers is crucial. Educating the market about the benefits of locally grown garlic, such as freshness and taste, can help shift consumer preferences towards domestic products.

Lastly, industry-wide collaboration and support are essential. By working together, garlic producers, government agencies, and industry associations can create a supportive ecosystem that fosters growth, innovation, and resilience.

The South African garlic industry stands at a crossroads, facing significant challenges but also possessing the potential for revival and growth. By addressing the issues of quality, variety, and market access and leveraging local production's advantages, there is hope for a vibrant and sustainable garlic industry in South Africa.

The journey of the South African garlic producers, marked by determination and adaptability, mirrors the broader story of agriculture in the country - a testament to the enduring spirit of those who work the land.

Uitnemende jongboere gekies vir SA titel

Uitnemende jongboere is die finaliste vir vanjaar se titel van Agri SA en Toyota se jongboer van die jaar. Die beoordeling vir die 20ste jongboer vind later vanjaar plaas. Vrystaat Landbou het aan die 2024-kompetisie onttrek.

Die aangewese kandidate is Kobus Beyers van Noordwes, Dean Barnard van die Wes-Kaap, Kobus Pieters van Mpumalanga, Dwayne Kaschula van die Oos-Kaap, Hannes Bruwer van die Noord-Kaap, Guy English van KwaZulu-Natal, Valeska van Schoor van Gauteng en Willem Engelbrecht van Limpopo.

Noordwes

Kobus Beyers (39) van die Al Cor-boerdery in die Wolmaransstad-distrik bedryf ‘n gemengde boerdery met somergraan en vee. Sy gesaaides bestaan uit mielies, sojabone en sonneblomme. In die veevertakking is kommersiële vleisbeeste en ‘n Dormer-stoetkudde.

Hy het eers saam met sy pa, Org, en familielede geboer en later saam met sy pa en broer, Nelius. Na sy pa se afsterwe boer hy en sy broer op die plaas Doornpan. Hulle het bykomende

grond gekoop en huur landerye en weiding om die boerdery aan te vul. Beyers is met Stephanie getroud.

Die ander finaliste vir Noordwes se titel was Stompie Olivier van Rysmierbult en George Nel van Stella.

Wes-Kaap

Dean Barnard (40) van Waboomskraal naby George boer met hops, pekanneute, amandels en pruime. Dit is veral sy prestasies met pruime en hops wat hom bekend gemaak het.

Hy glo die grootte van ‘n plaas bepaal nie die sukses nie, want hy boer op 45 ha en dit is nie te min of te klein nie. Oppie Plaas-boerdery is een van sewe hops-boerderye in Afrika en is in die afgelope 15 jaar reeds onder die top-drie produsente in die land. Barnard se hops word in die vervaardiging van Castle-

NA BLADSY 28

advancing beyond the basics seeds | science| service

Donatello*

• Excellent cherry plum combined with high yield potential

• Strong plant withvery early maturity

• Suitable for single fruit or cluster picking

• Firm fruit offer extended shelf life

• Average fruit size of 22 - 24g

Torcida*

• Vigorous plant with good disease resistance

• Firm fruit with great taste and long shelf life

• Average fruit size of 180 - 200g

• Very well suited for undercover production

SV 2444 TH*

• Early indeterminate round variety

• Good set and high production potential

• Average fruit size of 140 - 160g

• Very well suited for open field production

• Able to grow across regions with different climatic conditions

Rouja*

• Early indeterminate round variety

• Good set and high production potential

• Average fruit size of 170 - 200g

• Very well suited for open field production

Uitnemende jongboere gekies vir SA titel

VAN BLADSY 27

en Castle Lite-bier gebruik.

Met sy pruimboerdery behaal Barnard eweneens sukses. Oppie Plaas-boerdery se 2023-opbrengs met die Autumn Harvest-kultivar was skrams minder as 100 ton/ha.

Hy het agt jaar gelede die plaas by sy pa, Deon, oorgeneem en sedertdien nuwe tegnologie in besproeiing gebruik om water te spaar en die pruim- en amandelboorde aangeplant.

Barnard en sy vrou Carla het ‘n seun, Wian, en dogter, Dianca. Die ander finaliste vir titel van Agri Wes-Kaap Santam se jongboer was Jurgens Botha, Rory Sandberg en Jerid-Lee Waries.

Mpumalanga

Die voormalige beroepsgholfspeler Kobus Pieters van Hazyview boer nog net twaalf jaar maar het reeds ‘n makadamiaboerdery en -verwerkingsaanleg op sy kerfstok en voer sy produk uit. In ‘n nuwe parsaanleg verwerk hy en ‘n vennoot verskillende neute in botter en olie.

Pieters is lid van Kiepersol se boerevereniging en was lid van die Makadamiakwekersvereniging se raad. Hy en sy vrou, Lyndie, bedryf ‘n gastehuis op Hazyview.

Hy het begin boer deur ‘n klein verwaarloosde plasie buite Hazyview te koop waarop makadamiaboorde was. Hy het die boerdery uitgebrei en die Big 5 Mac-handelsmerk gevestig. In die boerdery se verwerkingsaanleg word ongedopte neute verwerk en verpak om na die Verre Ooste uitgevoer te word. Die aanleg neem ook ander boere se produkte in.

In die parsaanleg word makadamia-, pekan- en amandelneute in olie en botter verwerk.

Die ander finalis vir Mpumalanga se titel was Tommie Steele van die Leeuklip-boerevereniging.

Oos-Kaap

Dwayne Kaschula (37) van die Confluence-boerdery by Maclear het ‘n gemengde boerdery met gewasse, lewende hawe, wild en eiers. Die eiervertakking is onlangs bygevoeg en het die voordeel dat die boerdery se eie graan as voer gebruik word en die hoendermis vir bemesting.

Die boerdery se gewasse bestaan uit aartappels, mielies en suikerboontjies. In die veevertakking bestuur Kaschula ‘n Angus- en Brangus-stoetery en teel bulle vir sy kommersiële beeste en om speelkalwers te kan bemark. Verder het hy ‘n Boerbok-stoet en teel wild.

Die twee ander finaliste vir die jongboertitel in die OosKaap was Peet Coetzee, ‘n Merino-skaapboer van Steynsburg, Pieter Jordaan van Aberdeen wat met skaap en Angora-bokke boer en Jonathan Willows, ‘n melk- en pynappelboer van OosLonden.

Limpopo

Willem Engelbrecht van Piet Citrus by Marble Hall is Agri Limpopo se kandidaat vir die jongboer-titel. Die plaas se hoofvertakking is sitrus maar hulle het ook pekanneutboorde, ‘n pakhuis vir sitrus en doen akkerbou. Hy boer saam met sy pa, Piet, in die familieboerdery.

Die ander finalis was Moné Pieterse van Letsitele wat met mango’s en groente boer. Sy was die eerste vroulike boer in

Agri Limpopo se kompetisie.

Noord-Kaap

Hannes Bruwer is ‘n besproeiingsboer van die Genade-boerdery by Hopetown. Die boerdery verbou onder meer mielies, springmielies, lusern, gars en koring. Groente wat verbou word sluit uie, beet, witbone, groenerte en aartappels in. Hy is verantwoordelik vir die verkryging van insetmiddele en is logistieke bestuurder van die boerdery se voertuie. Buitengewone hoë reënval en Eskom se voorsieningsprobleme het groot uitdagings aan die boerdery gestel.

Bruwer se pa en twee broers is in die verlede as uitnemende boere bekroon - sy pa, Vickie Bruwer, was Graan SA se graanprodusent van die jaar. Sy broer, Gerhard, was die nasionale wenner van die jongboertitel en ander broer, Vickie Junior, ‘n provinsiale wenner van die jongboertitel.

KwaZulu-Natal

Guy English, Mooi River Beefmaster bees- en mielieboer is bekroon met die titel van 2024 KZN Kwanalu Jongboer van die Jaar.

English (35) sal Kwanalu en alle KZN-boere by die 2024 Toyota SA/Agri SA Nasionale Jongboer van die Jaar-kompetisie later vanjaar verteenwoordig. Hy ding mee teen topboere van regoor Suid-Afrika en staan ’n kans om die gesogte nasionale titel te verseker en in ’n splinternuwe Toyota Hilux-enkelkajuit huis toe te ry.

Engels verstaan die kritieke rol van volhoubare landbou en plaas ’n sterk klem op grondgesondheid. Hy gebruik hoendervullis om sy weivelde en mielielande natuurlik te bemes, wat afhanklikheid van chemiese kunsmis verminder. Sy toewyding aan innovasie is duidelik in sy proewe met dekgewasse, om gronderosie te voorkom, en sy jaarlikse toetsing van mieliekultivars om opbrengste en veerkragtigheid te optimaliseer.

Benewens sy tradisionele boerderykundigheid, het English die krag van moderne tegnologie en sy sosialemediabladsy, T & G Beefmasters, benut om sy sigbaarheid op nasionale vlak te verbreed. Hy bly egter gegrond op die belangrikheid van generasiekennis en -ervaring.

Gauteng

Die 33-jarige Valeska van Schoor het ’n B.Ing.-graad in rekenaar- en elektroniese ingenieurswese aan die Noordwes-universiteit behaal, maar is die afgelope vier jaar heeltyds ’n boer.

Van Schoor en haar man, Stefan, het saam ’n groenteonderneming, Gro4Africa. Hulle het reeds met proeflopies begin terwyl albei nog gewerk het in die rigtings waarin hulle gestudeer het.

Valeska het onder meer vir die WNNR gewerk, waar sy toenemend projekbestuur gedoen het, terwyl Stefan ’n geoktrooieerde rekenmeester is wat onder meer finansiële bestuurder by Obaro was. Stefan het hom in die begin van die jaar heeltyds by die boerdery aangesluit.

Op hul plaas van 25-30 ha tussen Rayton en Donkerhoek, oos van Pretoria, boer hulle intensief met groente, soos spinasie, groenboontjies, blomkool, seldery en slaaiblare. ’n Klein gedeelte van die boerdery is onder skadunette.

Growth through exports

There is consensus amongst South African agribusinesses, farmers, and the government that the path to growing South Africa's agricultural sector must include a strong focus on exports.

Wandile Sihlobo AGBIZ

Creating an environment where the agricultural sector continues to attract investment and grows sustainably in the long run will be difficult to achieve without opening up the export markets. Thus, the government and private sector's efforts in boosting agricultural production in various regions of South Africa must be matched with the same drive to expand export markets.

South Africa is not an insignificant player in global agriculture. The country ranked 32nd among the world's top agricultural exporters in 2023 and the only African country in the top 40, according to data from Trade Map (exports amounted to US$13,2 billion in 2023). This was made possible by a range of trading agreements South Africa secured over the past decades, the most important being with some African, European, American, and Asian countries. The African continent and Europe now account for about two-thirds of South Africa's agricultural exports.

With ongoing geopolitical risks, South Africa must have a renewed focus on agricultural trade through retaining the existing export markets and searching for new ones. Retaining existing export markets also means continuous engagements with our major trading partners, not only when there are challenges. The engagements can be at the government and organised business levels to ensure continuous collaboration on matters of shared interest.

Organised businesses and commodity associations can achieve this role through consistent engagements with the various embassies in Pretoria. Another intervention could be the occasional information sessions between various embassies' technical staff and the departments of agriculture to maintain warm relations.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation must support the Department of Agriculture in this effort of relationship maintenance, and perhaps as observers also in technical information sessions about commodities and agricultural conditions, amongst other things that could be discussed. This would not be a new initiative, as South Africa's Department of Agriculture has a forum with the US Embassy staff in agriculture, which is purely for sharing technical information about agricultural developments. This initiative helps

to keep open lines of communication and warm relationships. This export drive and maintenance of relationships would be vital to provide a market for the potential expansion of over two million hectares of underutilised government land that is yet to be distributed with title deeds.

The export promotion is also vital for the long-term growth of various South African farming businesses and, ultimately, job creation.

Beyond maintaining the existing trade relations, South Africa must keep a constant eye on widening the export markets. South Africa should expand market access to some key BRICS countries, such as China, India, Egypt, and Saudia Arabia. Other strategic export markets for South Africa's agricultural sector include South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Taiwan, Mexico, the Philippines, and Bangladesh.

The significant challenges in these markets are high import tariffs and phytosanitary barriers. This means the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition must keep agriculture at the top of its agenda in its interactions with foreign governments, particularly the countries we list above. The intention should be to argue for lowering import tariffs and, therefore, involve the Department of Agriculture in addressing the phytosanitary issues for various products.

South Africa's export drive is for most of the country's commodities: multiple fruits, wine, red meat, wool, abalone, grains, and oilseeds, amongst other products. These products can also expand in the underutilised land and are labour intensive, specifically the fruits and wine. Vegetables should undoubtedly be on the agenda when engaging with the African government, as there is currently some trade friction.

This message of the agricultural exports drive was also the one South Africa carries in Russia at the BRICS Business Council meetings during October 2024, and was again a key theme later in the month at the political leaders BRICS Summit in Kazan.

The core messaging of South Africa is a call for lower tariffs amongst the BRICS members and the address of the non-tariff barriers and phytosanitary issues. South Africa has a broad interest across the BRICS grouping, with a particular focus on China, India, and Saudi Arabia, the major agricultural importers. Notably, the products these countries import from the world market are similar, to an extent, to what South Africa exports to the world.

Navigating logistical challenges in the stonefruit export season

As the South African stonefruit export season unfolds, the industry braces for another round of logistical hurdles, particularly at the country's container ports. According to Hortgro, disruptions will be especially pronounced in Cape Town, presenting significant challenges for growers and exporters alike.

The ripple effects of these disruptions are expected to extend beyond stonefruit, impacting other export sectors such as table grapes and early shipments of apples and pears. With the industry's reliance on timely logistics, stakeholders are keenly aware of the pressing need for solutions.

In a proactive response, representatives from the table grape sector were scheduled to meet with key stakeholders in Spain to introduce a new logistics model aimed at alleviating port congestion. This initiative is particularly critical as growers and exporters seek to optimise their supply chains and reduce pressure on already strained port facilities.

Meanwhile, in Namibia, the table grape industry has announced plans to increase container shipments through the port of Walvis Bay. Last season, this route proved successful, and growers are optimistic about the benefits of ramping up shipments through this less congested port during the upcoming season.

Jacques du Preez from Hortgro shared his insights on the current state of logistics: "We believe we've begun to turn a corner in the Port of Cape Town regarding the ongoing logistical crisis. However, we anticipate a challenging season ahead from a logistical standpoint." This sentiment resonates with many in the industry preparing to implement alternative shipping modes to ensure their products promptly reach international markets.

To help mitigate the pressure on Cape Town's container terminal, Anlin Shipping has unveiled ambitious plans for the coming months. From late November 2024 through midMarch 2025, the company is set to deploy 17 conventional reefer vessels to service routes between South Africa, the UK, and Europe. Collectively, these vessels are expected to transport around 90 000 tonnes of fruit - equivalent to 400 reefer containers - significantly alleviating the workload on the port.

While some Western Cape growers successfully shipped portions of their harvest via Eastern Cape ports last year, that

route poses its own challenges, chiefly higher costs and the necessity of trucking fruit nearly 1 000 kilometres. The financial strain has weighed heavily on growers, with many facing closures due to the compounded impact of ongoing logistical issues over the past two years.

"Growers have suffered financially largely due to circumstances beyond their control,” says Du Preez. “Unfortunately, this has forced many out of business. There's light at the end of the tunnel," he assured, "although it could take 8 to 12 months for the measures being implemented by Transnet to make a tangible difference for growers."

As the export landscape evolves, alternative shipping methods will once again be essential from December 2024 to April 2025. While these alternatives come with added expenses, they are deemed necessary to ensure that fruit reaches markets punctually and meets quality expectations. The costs must be carefully balanced against the risks of delayed shipments and potential quality claims, which could prove detrimental to growers' reputations.

The South African stonefruit season is set to gain momentum this month, with Namibian growers initiating their harvest early in November 2024. In tandem, Orange River grape growers are gearing up for packing activities towards the end of November. December will herald the start of the Western Cape grape season, followed by the first shipments of apples and pears in early January 2025.

While the South African stonefruit export season holds promise, it is inextricably tied to the swift resolution of logistical challenges at the nation's ports. With stakeholders actively seeking innovative solutions and alternative shipping routes, cautious optimism remains for a fruitful harvest and successful export season ahead. Achieving this will require both adaptability and strategic planning to ensure that all fruit meets the quality and timeliness that international markets demand.

Maak gebruik van die spesialiste

UITGEWERS VAN:

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

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

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

Navorsingsjoernaal:

SA Avokadokwekersvereniging (SAAGA)

SA Lietsjiekwekersvereniging (SALGA)

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