Vegetables & Fruit September/October 2023

Min groei en baie uitdagings vir sitrusbedryf

Min groei en baie uitdagings vir sitrusbedryf

PUMPKIN & HUBBARD

STAR 7022

• A grey hybrid pumpkin with a semi-bush growth habit.

• Deep-flat fruit with smooth ‘easy to peel’ skin.

• Orange yellow flesh.

• Early maturing and high yielding.

• Early maturity may avoid some disease problems.

STAR 7026

• A grey hybrid pumpkin with a semi-bush growth habit.

• Deep-flat fruit with slight ribbing.

• Thick, firm, deep orange flesh with little under the skin greening.

• Early maturing and high yielding.

• Intermediate resistance to ZYMV.

STAR 7028

• A grey hybrid pumpkin with a vining growth habit.

• Deep-flat fruit with slight ribbing.

• Firm, orange flesh.

• Early maturing with excellent yield potential.

• Intermediate resistance to ZYMV.

WARRIOR

• A grey hybrid pumpkin with a semi-bush growth habit.

• Deep-flat, uniform fruit with light skin colour.

• Thick, firm, deep orange flesh.

• Early maturing and high yielding.

• Good general disease resistance.

INVINCIBLE

• A white hybrid pumpkin with a semi-bush growth habit.

• Deep-flat fruit with smooth ‘easy to peel’ skin.

• Thick (very small seed cavity), firm, deep orange flesh.

• Early maturing with excellent yield potential.

• Intermediate resistance to ZYMV.

STAR 7053

• A green hybrid Hubbard squash with a semi-vining growth habit. (Less vining than commercial standards = more plants/Ha).

• Hubbard shaped fruit up to 8 kg with slightly bubbly skin.

• Thick, firm, orange yellow flesh.

• Early maturing with good yield potential.

• Good general disease resistance.

Edition 215 ISSN 1015-85 37

www.vegetablesandfruitmagazine.co.za

COVER

When it comes to cucurbit production, pollination is one of the most important yielddetermining factors.

EDITORIAL

Willie Louw (Group editor)

Carien Daffue (Editor)

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

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4 A Country of two agricultures

Jana Greenall 011 476 3702 082 780 9914 mediacom@lantic.net DESIGN Mercia Venter studio.chatnoir@gmail.com 22

4 Increase in the minimum wage is throttling agricultural sector growth

5 Agreements signed between SA and China

6 World Macadamia Nut Day: Focus on quality for ultimate satisfaction

6 Nematologist, Prof Driekie Fourie joins Syngenta

8 Supply chain disruptions highlighted at IFPA conference

9 Hoop is ’n werkwoord met opgerolde moue

10 The effect of Crop4Life on creasing in oranges

12 SA must lodge a WTO dispute to stop CBS regulations

14 Bestuur sitrus se vrugkwaliteit en -grootte met ‘n voedingsprogram

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A Country of two agricultures

AGBIZ

Agbiz chief economist, Wandile Sihlobo, has a new book that will be available nationwide. The Kindle version of it is already out. The book, A Country of two agricultures, focuses less on history and more on the present and the future, explaining why dualism has persisted in the democratic era in South Africa’s agriculture, and what it will take to overcome it.

It aims to contribute to a better understanding of the variety of agricultural forces, taking into account both domestic political economy and external factors and bringing new risks and opportunities to light. Sihlobo offers insights into the role of agriculture

in the South African economy from an agricultural economy perspective and provides political economy insights that are rooted in the experiences of farming communities on the ground and right through the value chain.

Beyond insights on the realities, this book offers the government, the private sector, and anyone interested in the betterment of the South African economy, tools to grapple with this duality, and proposes a framework for bolstering the black farming segment for growth and competitiveness – and ultimately food security

Increase in the minimum wage is throttling agricultural sector growth

Agri SA will be making a submission to Parliament which demonstrates the negative impact of the national minimum wage on the growth and sustainability of the agricultural sector. Unless the increases in the minimum wage in the agricultural sector are aligned with inflation, there is a real risk of the agricultural sector contracting, with devastating effects on employment in the sector.

While the agricultural sector has according to Agri SA proven remarkably resilient in the face of numerous crises, most notably the lingering impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the pressure on the sector is beginning to show. Whereas the sector grew by 17,8% in 2020, it only grew by 7,4% in 2021 and a marginal 0,9% in 2022.

“This slower pace of growth is reflected in the labour statistics released by Stats SA recently which showed a 0,8% quarter-on-quarter increase in employment in the agricultural sector,” says Agri SA in a statement.

The dramatic decline in agricultural sector growth is the result of rising input costs of which labour is the most significant, constituting 25% of all production costs. For this reason, the national minimum constitutes a tremendous burden on the sector that is exacerbating the already crippling external pressures on farmers. Industries like the sugarcane sector, for example, already face enormous increases in the cost of fertiliser as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. At the same time, industries like citrus also face financial strains in relation to the cost of shipping for export goods as a result of South Africa’s failing road, rail and port infrastructure.

According to Agri SA, all these pressures on the sector have led to a rapid increase in the total farming debt burden

on farmers. In 2006, farming debt stood at R37,7 billion. By 2022, the debt stood at R205 billion. This is a 442% increase over 15 years.

This debt burden has risen as a result of one fundamentally misunderstood dynamic in the sector: farmers are price takers, with no control over prices beyond the farm gate. Local and international retailers set the prices and increases such as the national minimum wage do not form part of their considerations.

“If retailers do not increase prices as input costs rise, farmers are forced to absorb those additional costs. This dynamic is exacerbated by market access challenges that result in a greater surplus of produce on the local market, lowering the price that producers can obtain.

“The result of these accumulated challenges is greater pressure on South Africa’s food production. This compromises both the ability of the agricultural sector to guarantee the country’s food security and its ability to maintain and expand employment opportunities in the sector. The only way to protect food security and promote employment in the sector is to control the cost pressures on the sector. While many of the contributing costs are out of our control, the national minimum wage is firmly within the government’s control.”

Agri SA is therefore reiterating its call to the government to prioritise food security and employment protection in the determination of the national minimum wage. This is a critical commitment from the government if the country is to maintain its food security and protect vital jobs in our flailing economy.

Agbiz chief economist, Wandile Sihlobo.

Agreements signed between SA and China

ZZ2

During the recent official China state visit in Pretoria, 11 memorandums of understanding and other agreements were signed by the two countries. This included the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, signing an agreement on sanitary requirements for the export of avocados from South Africa to China.

In a statement, ZZ2 on behalf of Core Fruit and Mission Produce Southern Africa congratulated the South African and Chinese governments on this momentous occasion.

“Thanks must also go out to the South African Avocado Growers Association for their untiring work in assisting the government from a technical standpoint to gain access to China. Avocados in South Africa have the potential to create much-needed employment in the country thereby also boosting the economy. Now that the Chinese market has been opened, the avocado industry has the opportunity to greatly expand its plantings creating not only direct employment on farms but many down-stream job opportunities.

“South Africa has the potential to triple its avocado plant-

ings. The country has the resources in terms of land, water, people and know-how to reclaim its place as a real force in the worldwide avocado market. There are also have decades of experience in long-distance shipping.”

ZZ2 says the avocado market in South Africa became stagnant due to lack of market access, but there is hope that the opening of China and further markets, including India and Japan, will provide the necessary momentum the market needs to once again become a major avocado player.

“South Africa is ideally placed to service the Indo-Pacific region of the world.”

In terms of shipping times from South Africa to China, South Africa is a minimum of 10 days shorter than the biggest competitor Peru. ZZ2, Core Fruit and Mission Produce Southern Africa are ideally placed to take advantage of the opening of the Chinese market. ZZ2 has made substantial investments into a state-of-the-art modern avocado packhouse and into an avocado nursery that can produce in excess of 300 000 trees on both clonal and seeding rootstocks.

ZZ2 says Core Fruit has the experience in terms of logistics in exporting fruit (apples, pears, and citrus) to China.

success is in the detail

Donatello*

• Excellent cherry plum combined with high yield potential

• Strong plant with very early maturity

• Suited 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

Rouja*

• Early indeterminate round variety

• Good set and high production potential

• Average fruit size of 170 - 200g

• Very well suited for open field production

SV

• Suitable for undercover production

• Good tolerance of TYLCV and Powdery Mildew

• Suited for year round production

WORLD MACADAMIA NUT DAY

Focus on quality for ultimate satisfaction

It is little wonder that a food as crunchy and buttery as macadamias has its own special day on which the world can indulge all its sensory foodie desires with these delectable nuts. World macadamia day presents an opportunity to celebrate this iconic South African nut and the farmers who produce it.

Although the nut hails from Australia, South Africa is the largest producer of macadamia nuts in the world. South Africa has much to be proud of in terms of macadamia nut production: the sector employs nearly 30 000 people across the value chain.

Over 700 farmers grow macadamias, with growing regions expanding rapidly across the country. The largest concentration of growers is in the Mpumalanga Lowveld, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal. Representing growers in all these regions, Marquis Macadamias is able to support growers in processing and marketing their nuts to over 45 countries.

But, all macadamia nuts are not equal. The nut’s high oil content necessitates careful handling, processing, curing and storing to ensure that they maintain quality and provide the maximum pleasurable eating experience. Macadamia nuts have the hardest shell of all the nuts, but this does not mean that the nuts must not be handled with the utmost care.

Roelof van Rooyen, director of Marquis Macadamias, explains that this entails fine tuning every step of the process to ensure that nuts are cured at exactly the right temperatures to maintain crunch and keep the oils from going rancid.

“Accurate cracking ensures that nuts are not damaged, and pasteurisation means that consumers are assured of nuts that meet stringent health and food safety standards. If consumers have a bad eating experience, the chances of a repeat purchase

Nematologist,

are slim and the future success of the industry is at stake.”

With the vast majority of the South African crop exported, it is often the lesser quality nuts that remain in the local market. With the high prevalence of theft on farms, there is also a sizeable portion of nuts that are sold by unscrupulous traders who have no quality or hygiene systems in place. Consumers are cautioned to steer clear of nuts that have not gone through proper processing and quality control processes.

Attention should also be paid to the colour of the nuts. Macadamias should be creamy white or with a slight chocolatey brown tinge if they have been roasted. Honey-yellow, glassy, or oily looking nuts are likely to be spoiled. Van Rooyen underscores the importance of placing quality products in the market, for maximum consumer enjoyment.

“Few foods give the satisfaction of biting into a crunchy, creamy macadamia nut. It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals and delivers all the necessary healthy fats that aid brain function, weight loss and gut health. With such a sizeable value offering, it is imperative to ensure that the customer gets the full enjoyment of these nuts, which means that maintaining quality from farm to fork is crucial.”

With the majority of the local crop exported, South Africans can be hard pressed to find sufficient nuts to meet their needs. With volumes growing as the production increases, stores are however starting to increase their offering.

Prof Driekie Fourie joins Syngenta

The renowned nematologist, Prof Driekie Fourie, has joined Syngenta as the Technical Product Lead for Seedcare, which includes seed-treated biologicals, bio-stimulants, fungicides, insecticides and nematicides.

Armed with a passion for agricultural science and a PhD in Nematology from the University of Leuven in Belgium, she has dedicated her career - which commenced in 1991 at the Agricultural Research Council’s Grain Crops Institute - to studying nematodes and their impact on crop health. From 2010 she continued her research on nematode ecology, host plant resistance and evaluation of eco-friendly, IPM strategies to combat plant-parasitic nematodes at North-West University.

Recognised for her outstanding contributions, she has been honored with multiple awards during her research career, including the agricul-

turalist for the North-West province by Agricultural Writers SA, researcher of the year for the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management at the NWU, best PhD thesis by the Protein Research Foundation, Agricultural Research Council's Medal for Excellence as a researcher and various for best poster and oral presentations at Nematology-related congresses/symposia.

Prof Fourie is excited about her new role at Syngenta and the opportunity that it brings to apply her knowledge to develop effective solutions that help farmers protect their crops and increase agricultural productivity.

“Working in industry allows me to bridge the gap between research and practical implementation, enabling me to make a tangible impact on sustainable agriculture,” says Fourie.

Prof Driekie Fourie

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Supply chain disruptions highlighted at IFPA conference

The International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA's) Southern Africa Conference in Cape Town was a highlight on Southern Africa's fresh produce industry calendar. This year's conference also included a tradeshow, a leadership summit and a women's breakfast.

MARIANA PURNELL CONTRIBUTOR

The fresh produce industry is estimated to have a global market value of $220 billion with more than 200 origins and 200 destinations. In 2021, the production of fresh produce reached 1,6 billion tons of which 50% was consumed locally while 50% was destined for international trade. The industry operates with high fragmentation, including a range of small, medium, and large-scale producers. This results in a complex domestic and global supply chain.

Robert Guenther, Chief Public Policy Officer of IFP, discussed the initiatives of the global produce coalition and outlined how global supply chain disruptions are being addressed. The coalition brings together fresh produce associations from around the world, with a joint vision of creating a resilient global supply chain for fruits and vegetables. Their mission is to voice solutions to address disruptions and promote best practices.

The highly perishable nature of fresh produce makes it particularly vulnerable. Guenther emphasised that despite COVID creating havoc worldwide, the fresh produce industry remained resilient. But is this the new normal? Current global supply chain challenges persist, especially due to increased costs for all parts of the sector (Table 1).

Apart from the rising prices mentioned above, crop protection tools, packaging materials and materials for building greenhouses also skyrocketed. The conflict in the Ukraine has destabilised the market by disrupting the flows and thus the availability of fertiliser. Labour shortages that existed before COVID were

worsened and are now spread across the entire supply chain. Driver shortages and logistical challenges are in short supply and increasingly expensive, while congestion at ports and delays wreak havoc for the industry. Worldwide rising energy costs are also adding to the impact of food inflation and making food choices difficult for the cash-strapped consumer.

Guenther revealed the preliminary results of a global coalition of fresh produce survey of industry members into costs and prices (Table 2). While most role players on the supply side of the fresh produce industry were able to increase their prices, 57% of the global industry is selling at a loss or breakeven and 80% are delaying or forgoing investments in their businesses.

Guenther outlined some exciting plans for 2023/24 to make fruits and vegetables even more appealing and accessible.

The global coalition is on a mission to make fruits and vegetables more affordable globally by proposing a zero-VAT strategy and building on the perception of fruits and vegetables as a “strategic” or “essential good” boosting its value in the eyes of consumers. To make this happen, they are planning to step up public promotional investment and information campaigns and make more fruits and vegetables available through school feeding programs.

The coalition also wants to create better job opportunities in the fresh produce and transportation industries. They intend to promote the creation of safe and better-paying jobs in the fresh produce industry and in transportation with the goal of encouraging young people to pursue careers in these fields.

To address all the constraints in the market, they want to ensure that fresh fruits and veggies get top priority when it comes to transportation. The goal is to create stabilisation mechanisms to improve the accessibility of fresh produce.

According to Guenther, they are planning to initiate dialogue to help fresh produce operators shoulder the burden of increased energy bills and introduce transport resources for fruit and vegetable growers and exporters offsetting increased expenses. They will also work to harmonise and the mutual recognition of sanitary, phytosanitary, and other market entry requirements and facilitate greater access to key export markets. The sustainability footprint of fruit and vegetables will be promoted as a solution in the climate change debate.

All in all, it sounds like the Global Coalition of Fresh Produce has some fantastic plans.

Chief Public Policy Officer

Robert Guenther,

of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)

Table 1: Fresh produce industry role players have had to adapt to challenging conditions as enormous increases lead to supply chain strain.

Table 2: A global perspective of the top expenses (expressed in percentage) identified by the Global Coalition of Fresh Produce Survey of industry members.

Hoop is ’n werkwoord met opgerolde moue

Die doel van streekskongresse is om ‘n platform te skep wat boere in staat stel om die uitdagings wat hulle in die gesig staar, met die ondersteuning van Agri Limpopo aan te pak.

Magda du Toit MEDEWERKER

Tydens die opening van die Agri Limpopo-kongres wat onlangs gehou is, het Lodewyk de Jager, ondervoorsitter van Agri Limpopo, daarop gewys dat die kongrestema, Hoop is ‘n werkwoord – ten doel het om lede aan te spoor om nie net op hul eie ondernemings te fokus nie, maar ook om met ywer in te spring om van Suid-Afrika weer ‘n spogland te maak.

Die uitvoerende hoof van Agri Limpopo, Deidré Carter, het beklemtoon dat die verantwoordelikheid om die bul by die horings te pak en dinge reg te ruk, by die samelewing lê.

“Is dit ons verantwoordelikheid om in te gryp waar sake dreig om op ’n ramp af te stuur? Ja, definitief! As ons nie ingryp nie, sal die gevolge katastrofies wees. Ons moet betrokke wees. Ons moet ons moue oprol en verantwoordelikheid aanvaar,” het sy gesê.

Een van die maniere waarop baie van die uitdagings aangepak en ook ontwikkelingsdoelwitte bereik kan word, is deur hande te vat met verskillende gemeenskaps- en organisasies van die openbare sektor.

Die kongres het ook op veiligheid gefokus en in sy aanbieding het die polisie se adjunkkommissaris van Limpopo, generaal-majoor Jan Scheepers, gewaarsku dat almal daarop

bedag moet wees dat sake in die land oor die volgende jaar afdraande kan loop.

“Met die komende verkiesing op die agenda, kan dit wees dat ons in die komende jaar moontlik meer geweld en misdaad kan verwag,” het hy gesê. Scheepers het erken dat die landbou- en plattelandse gemeenskappe hulleself in ’n tameletjie-situasie bevind, maar het ’n beroep op boere gedoen dat hulle nie moet toelaat dat hierdie omstandighede hulle definieer nie.

Gen.maj. Scheepers het egter die boere en Agri Limpopo bedank vir die onderskeie veiligheidsinisiatiewe in die provinsie en onderneem dat die polisie alles in hulle vermoë sal doen om die boeregemeenskap te ondersteun. Hy het erken dat die polisie wel in sekere opsigte te kort skiet en dat hulle daarop fokus om te verbeter.

“Ek weet ons is die skuldige party in sekere opsigte, en dit is reg en goed dat ons op ons foute gewys word. Ons sal die slae vat. Maar ek wil tog vra dat julle nie net kritiseer nie, maar dat ons hande moet vat. Bly deel van die oplossing,” het hy gevra.

Gen.maj. Scheepers het gevra boere moet daarop fokus om hul plaaswerkers op te neem binne hul veiligheidsplanne. “Plaasveiligheid kan nie net op die boer fokus nie. Plaasveiligheid moet ook die veiligheid van die plaaswerkers insluit. Hoewel die verantwoordelikheid vir veiligheid en sekuriteit by die regering lê, sal plaaslike inisiatiewe meer doeltreffend wees as dit ook die veiligheid van plaaswerkers en plaaslike gemeenskappe insluit. Plaaswerkers is net so ‘n groot teiken van plaasmoorde en aanrandings en moet derhalwe deel vorm van die planne.”

Teetyd bied nie net geleentheid om bene te rek nie, maar ook vir informele besprekings. Hier is Piet Engelbrecht (voorsitter Agri Limpopo), Pieter de Jager (uitvoerende hoof Agri Enterprises) en Piet Smit van Agri Letaba.

Foto onder: Freda en JJ de Nysschen saam met Hanlie Lerm van Toyota. JJ de Nysschen is aangewys as Agri Limpopo en Toyota se 2023 Jongboer van die Jaar tydens Agri Limpopo se kongres.

Die nuwe bestuur van Agri Limpopo is tydens die kongres verkies. Hulle is: Hannes Wolvaardt (jongboere), Marthinus Erasmus (natuurlike hulpbronne), Lodewyk de Jager (ondervoorsitter), Piet Engelbrecht (voorsitter), Fritz Marx (ondervoorsitter), Rieker Botha (grondsake), Chris van Eck (ekonomie), Douw Pelser (veiligheid) en Pieter Vorster (arbeid).

By Agri Limpopo se kongres was Kallie Schoeman (verteenwoordiger van Agri Loskop), Pieter Vorster (direkteur van die Mahela Group en voorsitter Agri Letaba), Piet Smit (uitvoerende hoof van Komati Fruit en Agri Letaba-verteenwoordiger) en Wimpie Mostert (uitvoerende hoof van Houers in Letsitele).

The effect of Crop4Life on creasing in oranges

Creasing in citrus refers to the breakdown of the albedo, the white layer between the inside of the fruit and the outer peel. The affected fruit appears creased (Figure 1). Creasing is often seen in oranges but also in soft citrus. Although mostly manifesting as the fruit matures, earlier signs of creasing are sometimes seen in the green stages of fruit. It presents one of the biggest challenges to the successful production of citrus for the fresh fruit market, and options for reducing or controlling creasing are limited.

Crop4Life technology (C4L) refers to a plant-based organic biostimulant registered for use on 48 crops in South Africa. The commercial use of C4L-related products follows solid scientific research (>500 trials done over >10 years). Results of the studies done to determine the value of the product to different crops have not been published. The work presented here represents historical research on the properties of the product and its effect on creasing in oranges.

Dr Ida Wilson, Dr Nico Hanekom, Pieter van der Westhuizen STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY & BIOREVOLUTION

Figure 1. Creased oranges show weaknesses of the albedo as indents in the peel. Creasing can occur in coloured or green fruit alike and the peel may also crack due to the weak areas created by creasing.

Materials and methods

Crop type: Navel oranges

Trial layout: Randomised block design

Planting dates of orchards:

Kirkwood: McClean navel July 1999

Hankey: Palmer navel September 1999

Planting density

6 m x 3 m (for all cultivars)

Replicates

Six trees per replicate were treated. The four trees in the middle of the row of six trees served as reference (data) trees. The trial was replicated two times (one time at each of two different localities). The localities, cultivars, rootstock, and irrigation regime under which the product was studied are indicated in Table 1.

Treatments

The treatment application was made as an additional spray to the farmer's standard spraying programmes (nutritional, crop protection and others), while the untreated control represented the farmer’s standard spray programme. Treatments were applied with a motorised knapsack sprayer to the point of runoff.

The spray applications of C4L were at phenological stages of 100% petal drop, fruit set, cell division and fruit growth. These phenological stages are about 28 days apart but will differ per orchard and region according to the climate of the region (Figure 2).

Assessment of Palmer navels

Assessments were made in May of the following year (around harvest time). From each treated and untreated tree (four trees per treatment), 30 fruit were randomly picked (15 from each side of the tree) and the presence or absence of creasing in the fruit was recorded. For each tree replicate, the number of creased fruits per 30 fruit was converted to a percentage value, to represent the percentage of creased fruit as observed per treatment.

Assessment of McClean navels

Assessments were made in May of the following year (around harvest time). From each treated and untreated tree (four trees per treatment), 50 fruit were randomly picked (25 from each side of the tree) and the presence or absence of creasing in the fruit was recorded. For each tree replicate, the number of creased fruits per 50 fruit was converted to a percentage value, to represent the percentage of creased fruit as observed per treatment.

Results and discussion

For palmer navels, a 60% reduction in creased fruit was observed (Figure 3). For McClean navels, a 46% reduction in creased fruit was observed (Figure 4). These differences were statistically significant.

Conclusions

The product Crop4Life significantly reduced the incidence of creasing on navel oranges when applied at a dosage of 500 ml/ha three times during the growing season in October, November and December. This product may be valuable to farmers in reducing creasing in oranges.

Contact johan@biorevolution.co.za or info@biorevolution.co.za

for more information.

Figure 2. The phenological stages at which C4L was applied to oranges.

Figure 3. The percentage of palmer navels with creasing when treated three times with C4L compared to an untreated water control (UTC). Different alphabetical letters indicate that results are statistically significant.

Figure 4. The percentage of McClean navels with creasing when treated three times with C4L compared to an untreated water control (UTC). Different alphabetical letters indicate that results are statistically significant.

Table 1. Trial number, locality, cultivar, rootstock, and irrigation regime of the oranges orchards where the study was conducted.

SA must lodge a WTO dispute to stop CBS regulations

The Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has requested President Cyril Ramaphosa to urgently intervene, and halt unfair trade regulations enforced by the European Union (EU) on the local citrus industry, in particular the discriminatory trade regulations on citrus black spot (CBS), which is threatening thousands of jobs in the sector.

The CGA and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural development (DALLRD), and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) have worked together for over ten years to put a stop to the CBS regulations but unfortunately, the EU has continued to enforce rules that are unscientific and irrational.

It is critical that the South African government draws a line and calls for an official World Trade Organisation (WTO) dispute with the EU on their CBS regulations.

The industry has continued to raise the fact that CBS is a cosmetic issue that only affects a minuscule percentage of fruit exported, as a result of South Africa’s world-class control measures. Even though there is conclusive evidence that citrus fruit without leaves is not a pathway for the spread of CBS, the EU has continued to enforce these unreasonable measures. The EU is the only overseas market holding this position on CBS. Other markets acknowledge that the risk of establishment and spread of the disease through trade in fresh fruit is completely negligible.

It is clear that the EU restrictions are nothing more than a protectionist impulse. Through their actions, they are blocking South African citrus to unfairly benefit their own members, specifically the Spanish citrus industry. The South African gov-

ernment is on record that the EU regulations on CBS are a trade-restrictive measure and not a plant health issue.

Local citrus growers nevertheless have had to implement a comprehensive CBS risk management programme over the past few years. The Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) has quantified the cost of CBS risk management for the EU market in excess of R2 billion per year. This is completely beyond the industry’s financial ability.

If the EU market situation is not addressed, jobs and livelihoods will be lost. The EU citrus market currently sustains a total of 70 000 jobs and generates R15 billion in foreign earnings.

So far this season the EU has claimed a number of interceptions of CBS. However, a pattern of erroneous classifications of CBS has been established. In Belgium and Portugal CBS tests have proven to be unreliable and have resulted in false positives. For instance, Portugal claims a CBS interception from amongst Western Cape fruit, while this province has been proven to be completely free of the pest. This type of action suggests an established agenda to block South African trade and the CGA is in the process of raising formal objections to these interceptions at an EU level.

If the EU should close off its citrus market because of these spurious CBS interceptions, the South African citrus industry, and by extension the rural economy, will suffer further losses.

Time is running out for growers, who are already feeling the extreme market pressures. The CGA calls on the South African government to work with the industry to put a stop to these CBS regulations and fight for South African jobs and revenue. Declaring a WTO dispute is truly a matter of urgency.

Cut out fruit-drop

Fruit-drop caused by abiotic stresses like heat, dry conditions or too much water, can mean all the di erence to the citrus grower. Kelpak liquid seaweed biostimulant is scientif ically proven to retain up to 36% more fruit on the tree, resulting in a higher profit margin.

Bestuur sitrus se vrugkwaliteit en -grootte

met ‘n voedingsprogram

‘n Wetenskaplike benadering tot die ontwikkeling van ‘n sitrusvoedingsprogram verhoog produksie en dra by tot die sitrusboom se verdraagsaamheid vir peste en siektes. NexusAG dien die landboubedryf reeds langer as 22 jaar met gewasadviseurs, wat in verskeie gewasse spesialiseer. Hulle help onder meer met maatpas-voedingsprogramme vir sitrus.

Sitrusbemesting is noodsaaklik om te verseker dat alle minerale vir die boom in voldoende hoeveelhede beskikbaar is, sodat spesifieke produksieteikens bereik kan word. ’n Gebalanseerde voedingstatus vir die spesifieke grond-boomklimaat- situasie, met die gepaardgaande volume en tydsberekening en wat die uitwerking op die ekologie in ag neem, is die teiken. Faktore wat in ag geneem word, is onder meer grond se chemiese, fisisie en biologiese eienskappe, asook klimaat, soort bemestingstowwe, boomfenologie en vrugkwaliteit.

Besproeiing en voedingstowwe se doeltreffendheid berus op goeie opname deur die wortels en vervoer deur die res van plant deur middel van transpirasie.

Neem hierdie fokuspunte in ag vir doeltreffende besproeiing en bemesting:

• volume wat die boomwortels beset en grondeienskappe in die wortelsone;

• tempo waarteen nuwe wortelpunte gevorm word;

• transpirasie-vermoë en doeltreffende water- en voedingstofvervoer; en

• volume en tydsberekening van bemestingtoedienings, wat ook een van die betrokke bemestingproduk se eienskappe is.

Hoe groter die volume van boomwortels en hoe digter dit groei en ontwikkel, hoe meer water en voedingstowwe kan opgeneem word. Faktore wat ’n groot invloed op volume boomwortels het, is onder meer:

• fisiese eienskappe van die grond, soos aggregaat-stabiliteit, gronddeurlugting, en waterhouvermoë;

• chemiese eienskappe van die grond, soos die balans tussen elemente, kalsium, magnesium, kalium en natrium;

• die teenwoordigheid van mikro-organismes. Hierdie organismes kan deur hulle normale aktiwiteit ’n groot invloed hê op aggregaat-stabiliteit deur slym, wat deur mikro-organismes vervaardig word;

• die snoeistrategie - vir optimale ligonderskepping en -verspreiding wat meer direkte son in die middel van die boom toelaat en die groei en ontwikkeling van meer blare ondersteun, wat gevolglik ouksien vervaardig en aan die wortels

beskikbaar stel en tot bykomende wortel-ontwikkeling lei;

• die voorkoms van organiese sure, wat deur die plant uitgeskei word en wat ook as ’n worteltoediening aangevul kan word, speel ’n groot en belangrike rol om voedingstowwe aan die plant beskikbaar te stel;

• die kunsmatige toediening van verskillende mikro-organismes, wat voedingstowwe óf fikseer (soos stikstof), óf mineraliseer (soos fosfaat, kalsium, magnesium, kalium), kan ’n baie goeie bydrae lewer tot goeie wortelvolumeontwikkeling en ook tot bykomende plantvoeding.

Al die faktore wat boomwortel-volume bepaal, bepaal ook die tempo waarteen nuwe wortelgroeipunte gevorm word. Kalsium, yster en magnesium word hoofsaaklik opgeneem deur jong, nuwe wortelgroeipunte. Enige faktor wat die ontwikkeling van nuwe wortelgroeipunte nadelig beïnvloed, sal opname benadeel.

Die lang-afstandvervoer van water en voedingstowwe word hoofsaaklik deur die blare se transpirasie aangedryf. Wanneer transpirasie teen ’n vinniger tempo plaasvind, word meer water en voedingstowwe oor ’n lang afstand in die boom na die blare vervoer, waar dit benodig word. Indien ’n boom wat baie dig aan die binnekant is, oopgesnoei word, gaan water en voedingstowwe doeltreffender na daardie dele vervoer word. ’n Boom met krom takke wat in enige rigting groei en mekaar onnodig kruis, bemoeilik ook water- en voedingstofopname. ‘n Goeie beplande langtermynsnoeistrategie, wat goeie boomtak-struktuur-ontwikkeling ten doel het, verbeter die doeltreffendheid van water- en voedingstofvervoer.

Ontwikkel ’n voedingsprogram waarvan die toedieningsvolume en tydsberekening by die boord se struktuur-ontwikkeling aangepas is.

NexusAG se gewasadviseurs vorm deel van ’n span interne gewasspesialiste en word bygestaan deur spesialiste van bedryfsliggame en internasionale en plaaslike verskaffers, wat op die voorpunt van nuwe tegnologiese ontwikkeling bly.

Kontak NexusAG by 021 860 8040 of besoek www.nexusag. net vir meer inligting.

Ons doeltreffende sitrusbemestingprogramme verseker dat alle minerale in voldoende hoeveelhede beskikbaar is vir die boom.

Die effektiewe opname en verspreiding van die water en voedingstowwe wat toegedien word, hang af van hoe goed opname in die wo elsone plaasvind en die optimale tempo waa een water en voedingstowwe vervoer word na die blare waar dit benodig word.

Oorweeg gerus die volgende belangrike punte wat effektiewe water- en voedingstoftoedienings ondersteun en op sy beu vrugkwaliteit en vruggroo e bepaal:

Die volume en tydsberekening van bemesting-toedienings.

Die vorming van nuwe wo elgroeipunte.

Die volume wat die wo els beset en kwaliteit van die grond in wo elsone.

Die plant se transpirasievermoë.

Die effektiewe vervoer van water en voedingstowwe.

Die samestelling en frekwensie van die bemestingsbron.

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

Min groei en baie uitdagings vir sitrusbedryf

Die Buro vir Voedsel- en Landboubeleid (BFAP) vind in sy jongste vooruitsig, die ‘BFAP Baseline 2023’, dat onlangse wêreldgebeure, uitbrekings van siektes, ernstige droogtes en finansiële krisisse, onsekerheid skep oor wat in landbou kan gebeur in die volgende dekade.

Mariana Purnell MEDEWERKER

Tydens die bekendstelling van die jongste vooruitsig vir die landbousektor tussen 2023 en 2032 is klem gelê op die feit dat die sektor toenemende druk en uitdagings ervaar wat sy bydrae tot die bruto binnelandse produk belemmer.

Die sitrusbedryf in Suid-Afrika het in die afgelope dekade 'n merkbare transformasie ondergaan, met die totale oppervlakte onder produksie wat toegeneem het van 60 000 tot 100 000 hektaar. Hierdie uitbreiding het nie net ’n ekonomiese uitwerking gehad nie, maar dit het ook bygedra tot die verbetering van Suid-Afrika se landbou-uitvoermarkte en internasionale mededingendheid.

Met ’n vestigingskoste van ongeveer R500 000 per hektaar, is die belegging in die uitbreiding van sitrusboorde nie gering nie. Die privaatsektor het oor die afgelope dekade ’n indrukwekkende belegging van ongeveer R20 miljard in die bedryf gemaak het. Figuur 1 illustreer die groei van suurlemoen en sagte sitrus se oppervlakte oor die afgelope dekade en beklemtoon ook die 7 000 hektaar uitbreiding in lemoene.

In die toekoms sal voorspellings vir die groei in uitvoervolume die groei in produksie weerspieël en daartoe lei dat

die uitvoerwaarde van lemoene, sagte sitrus, suurlemoene en pomelo’s moontlik R21 miljard, R11,5 miljard, R10 miljard en R2,8 miljard onderskeidelik kan bereik (Figuur 2).

Met die voorspelde groei in volume bly die nominale uitvoerpryse volgens die BFAP se vooruitsig effens gedemp. Oor die komende dekade beweeg pryse sodanig dat die werklike, inflasie-aangepaste vlakke stabiliseer rondom die vlakke van 2012. Dit impliseer dat nominale pryse vir sagte sitrus, gesteun deur ’n verswakkende rand oor tyd, na verwagting 2020-vlakke teen 2027 sal oorskry, terwyl huidige projeksies vir lemoenpryse aandui dat die piekvlakke van 2018 nie in die komende dekade oorskry sal word nie. Nuwe bedryfsgemiddelde pryse vir lemoene en pomelo’s van ongeveer R13 000/ton en R12 000/ton onderskeidelik kan teen 2032 gerealiseer word.

’n Aansienlike belegging het in navorsing en ontwikkeling plaasgevind, met ’n jaarlikse belegging van ongeveer R150 miljoen om die jongste tegnologie en kultivars in die bedryf te gebruik en globale mededingendheid te verseker. Hierdie samewerking tussen die privaatsektor en die regering het ook bygedra tot die ontsluiting van uitvoermarkte. As gevolg hiervan is sitrus tans Suid-Afrika se grootste landbou-uitvoerproduk. In werklikheid het sitrusuitvoer die top vier ingevoerde landbouprodukte, naamlik rys, koring, palmolie en pluimvee, oorskry.

Die bedryf staar nietemin tans ’n aantal uitdagings in die gesig. Een van die groot uitdagings is die toenemende strengheid van sanitêre en fitosanitêre vereistes. Byvoorbeeld, die nuwe kouekettingvereistes wat op sitrusuitvoer van toepassing is as gevolg van risiko’s rakende die valskodlingmot, het die uitvoerbedryf geraak. Hierdie vereistes het ’n uitwerking op die prosesse en koste van die sitrusuitvoer en vereis aanpassing en navorsing om by die nuwe regulasies aan te pas.

BFAP se data toon dat uitvoermarkte vir Suid-Afrikaanse sitrus, in volgorde van belangrikheid, soos volg is: die EU (32%), Midde-Ooste (19%), Suid-Oos-Asië (15%), die Verenigde Koninkryk (9%), Noord-Amerika (9%), Rusland (8%), Asië (6%) en Afrika en Eilande (2%). Nietemin, die EU se implementering van nuwe kouebehandelingsprotokolle vir lemoeninvoer het 'n uitwerking op die uitvoer van hierdie produk. Dit het veroorsaak dat Suid-Afrikaanse produsente moet soek na alternatiewe markte en strategieë om aan die nuwe vereistes te voldoen.

Die invloed van omgewingsfaktore, soos 2015-2018 se

droogte en die wisselvallige wisselkoers van die rand, het ook ’n merkbare invloed op die bedryf gehad. Hierdie faktore kan die produksie en uitvoerpatrone van sitrus beïnvloed, wat op sy beurt die inkomste en winsgewendheid van produsente kan beïnvloed. Die bedryf moet ook die toenemende vraag na sitrusproduk in ag neem, wat kan lei tot 'n styging in produksievolume, maar wat terselfdertyd die druk op pryse kan verhoog.

Die toekoms van die sitrusbedryf in Suid-Afrika toon ’n mengsel van geleenthede en uitdagings. Terwyl daar voortgesette groeimoontlikhede is, moet die bedryf aandag gee aan faktore soos sanitêre en fitosanitêre vereistes, omgewingsinvloede en wisselvallige internasionale marktoestande. Deur voortdurende samewerking tussen die privaatsektor, die regering en navorsingsinstellings, kan die sitrusbedryf voortgaan om ’n betekenisvolle bydrae te maak tot die Suid-Afrikaanse landbou- en uitvoerekonomie. Met deurdagte beplanning, aanpassings aan nuwe regulasies en aanwending van vindingryke tegnieke, kan die bedryf floreer en steeds 'n sinvolle bydrae tot die ekonomiese landskap lewer.

Figuur 1. Oppervlakte onder sitrusproduksie en volume: werklik en projeksie (2013-2032).

Figuur 2. Sitrusuitvoerpryse en waarde: werklik en projeksie (2013-2032).

Grafting of tomatoes

Grafting is the act of joining two plant parts (a rootstock and scion) together, to grow as a single plant from physical combination by means of tissue regeneration. It is an ancient technique, suggested to have been used in the 5th century in the Middle East and Asia, but is relatively new to vegetable cultivation. Commercial grafting of vegetables originated in the 20th century, with the main aim of managing soilborne pathogens. The scion is typically chosen for its desirable traits, such as fruit quality or ornamental features, and the rootstock for its contribution to root vigour and specific growth characteristics.

In South Africa grafting is mainly used for improved vigour, as well as the control of diseases like fusarium and bacterial wilt and problems with nematodes.

Fusarium wilt

Fusarium wilt is caused by the pathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Lycopersici race 3, commonly known as Fol3 that has emerged as a significant agricultural concern in South Africa’s tomato cultivation. This devastating disease poses a grave threat to tomato crops and can lead to substantial economic losses.

Fol3 targets the vascular system of tomato plants, obstructing water and nutrient transport. Disease symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. The fungus can persist in the soil for extended periods, making the affected fields unsuitable for tomato cultivation and aggravating the problem over time.

South Africa’s warm and humid climate creates an ideal environment for Fol3 proliferation. The pathogen thrives in these conditions, making it challenging to control. The lack of natural resistance in many commercial tomato varieties has limited the available options for managing the disease.

To combat Fol3, integrated disease management strategies have been employed, such as crop rotation, disease management techniques, and planting Fol3-resistant varieties. Tomato growers need to be informed about the disease symptoms and modes of transmission, enabling early detection and prompt actions to prevent the spread of the disease, such as crop removal and soil disinfection.

Bacterial wilt

Bacterial wilt is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum and is a pressing concern for tomato cultivation in South Africa. This devastating disease has enormous economic implications and can cause significant crop losses.

Bacterial wilt affects the vascular system of tomato plants, leading to wilting, yellowing and eventually plant death. The

bacterium clogs the plant’s vascular tissue, disrupting water and nutrient flow. As a result, infected plants suffer from water stress and nutrient deficiencies, which severely impact their growth and productivity. The disease is soil-borne and can persist in the soil for extended periods, making it challenging to manage.

The South African climate provides an ideal environment for bacterial wilt development and spread. Infected plant material, contaminated irrigation water and soil can all contribute to the disease dissemination across regions. Additionally, the bacterium has a wide host range, infecting various crops beyond tomatoes, posing a threat to overall agricultural diversity.

The control of bacterial wilt is challenging due to its persistence in the soil and its ability to overcome resistance mechanisms. Integrated management approaches are crucial for reducing disease impact. These include using disease-free seedlings, employing crop rotation with non-host plants and implementing strict sanitation practices to prevent the spread of contaminated plant material and soil.

It is important to note that bacterial wilt can easily be mistaken for fusarium wilt, so it is advisable for the grower to do disease testing on their plants to ensure that the correct identification of the disease is made and the correct measures are followed to prevent further infection.

Nematodes

Root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne arenaria M. incognita and M. javanica, pose a significant challenge to tomato cultivation in South Africa, affecting crop yield and quality. Nematodes are microscopic roundworms that reside in the soil, with certain species being highly damaging to plants by feeding on their root systems and disrupting nutrient and water uptake.

These nematodes create characteristic galls or swellings on the roots of infected plants, impairing their ability to absorb water and nutrients. As a result, infected plants exhibit stunted growth, wilting and reduced fruit production. The warm and temperate climate of South Africa provides an optimal environment for nematode proliferation and activity, intensifying the problem.

Management of the nematode infestation in tomato fields is challenging due to their persistent nature in the soil. Crop rotation is often limited by the wide host range of root-knot nematodes, making it difficult to find suitable non-host crops. The use of resistant tomato varieties is a cornerstone of nematode management. These varieties have been bred to exhibit tolerance to specific nematode species. Tomato growers must however keep in mind that resistance mechanisms can vary and some nematode populations can overcome resistance

Grafting is a centuries-old technique that continues to revolutionise modern horticulture by enabling the creation of plants with enhanced traits and improved performance.

over time through genetic adaptation.

Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine various approaches, such as biological control, resistant varieties, and agricultural practices, offer a more sustainable and effective solution to control nematodes. Growers need to be informed about nematode life cycles, identification and effective management techniques, regular monitoring of soil and plant health along with early intervention measures, which will all assist in preventing severe infestations and minimise yield losses.

Vigour

The importance of vigour in tomato rootstocks cannot be overstated as it plays a pivotal role in ensuring successful and productive tomato cultivation. Vigour refers to the overall strength, growth rate and robustness of the plant. In the context of tomato rootstocks, vigour directly influences various aspects of plant health, yield and resilience against environmental stress and diseases.

Vigorous rootstocks contribute to strong and healthy plant growth. They develop extensive root systems that efficiently absorb water and nutrients from the soil, promoting optimal plant development. This leads to larger, more vigorous aboveground growth, which directly translates to higher yields of quality tomatoes. The enhanced nutrient uptake also results in improved fruit size, colour and taste.

Vigorous rootstocks furthermore provide plants with greater tolerance to environmental stress and can better withstand adverse conditions such as drought, heat and soil salinity. This resilience is crucial for maintaining consistent crop production, especially in regions prone to unpredictable weather patterns or challenging soil conditions.

In grafting practices, where a desired tomato variety is grafted onto a rootstock, vigour becomes a key consideration. The choice of a vigorous rootstock can influence the compatibility and success of grafting, leading to improved plant establishment and growth.

The importance of vigour in tomato rootstocks lies in its multifaceted impact on plant growth, yield, stress tolerance, disease resistance, and overall crop sustainability. By selecting and utilising rootstocks with robust vigour, tomato growers can significantly enhance their chances of cultivating healthy, productive and resilient plants that contribute to a stable successful tomato production system.

While the grafting of tomatoes offers a lot of benefits, there are some factors that growers should consider:

• Increased cost: Grafting requires specialised materials such as rootstock seeds, grafting clips, and tools. The labourintensive nature of grafting can also contribute to higher labour costs.

• Risk of disease transmission: There is also the risk of disease transmission through grafting if proper sanitation practices are not followed. The transfer of pathogens from rootstock to scion can compromise the health of the grafted plant and potentially spread diseases.

• Potential incompatibility: The possibility always exists that the rootstock and scion might not successfully fuse, or it may lead to altered growth habits.

Grafting provides numerous benefits to the cultivator, such as disease resistance and increased vigour, yet it also comes with some drawbacks. Ultimately, the decision to use grafting relies on the grower’s judgment regarding its suitability for their specific production objectives and circumstances.

Apart from tomatoes, Sakata Seed also offers a rootstock for peppers and cucurbit crops, with a primary focus on cucumber, melon and watermelon. For more information on Sakata’s rootstock varieties visit the Sakata website at www.sakata.co.za.

DISCLAIMER: This information is based on observations and/or information from other sources. As crop performance depends on the interaction between the genetic potential of the seed, its physiological characteristics, and the environment, including management, no warranty is given express or implied, for the performance of crops relative to the information given nor do Sakata accept any liability for any loss, direct or consequential, that may arise from whatsoever cause. Please read the Sakata Seed Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd Conditions of Sale before ordering seed.

Tomato rootstock showing good results against nematode two on the left vs. rootstock infected with nematodes.

Tomato rootstock.

Root volume on different grafting varieties.

Grafting attachment point on pepper plant.

Unieke chemie en voordele

‘n Tamatie-opbrengs kan oesverlies van sowat 60% toon deur onvoldoende insekplaagbeheer. Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick, 1917) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), wat van die vroeë 90’s af as Tuta absoluta beskryf word, word as ’n kritieke plaag op tamaties beskou en veroorsaak baie opbrengsverliese.

Afgesien van skade wat aan blare en vrugte veroorsaak word, is T. absoluta se vermoë om weerstand teen chemiese beheermeganismes te ontwikkel kommerwekkend. Faktore wat tot verhoogde risiko in weerstand bydra sluit die volgende in (1,3):

• ‘n kort lewensiklus van ongeveer drie weke;

• hoë reproduktiewe kapasiteit met wyfies wat tot soveel as 260 eiers binne 7 tot 14 dae kan lê;

• vermoë om weerstand teen sekere chemiese aktiewe bestanddele te ontwikkel; en

• die oormatige gebruik in die verlede van ‘n beperkte verskeidenheid van effektiewe chemiese beheerklasse.

Vir doeltreffende plaagbeheer en insekweerstandsbestuur (IWB) word aanbeveel dat:

• geregistreerde insekdoders met verskillende metodes van werking met mekaar afgewissel word;

• geregistreerde insekdoders stiptelik volgens etiket-aanwysings gebruik word; en

• beginsels van geïntegreerde plaagbestuur (GPB) toegepas word om T. absoluta op ‘n ekonomiese en omgewingsverantwoordelike wyse beheer.

SumiPleo® is die perfekte beheer-opsie om saam met ‘n GPBstrategie teen T. absoluta aan te wend. Hierdie staatmaker in moderne chemiese beheertegnologie bevat die aktiewe bestanddeel Piridaliel (IRAC groep: UN), ‘n unieke molekuul wat deur Sumitomo Chemical in Japan ontdek en ontwikkel is.

• Met inname staak teiken-larwes onmiddellik om te vreet.

• Dit is aktief teen alle instars (lewenstadiums).

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

• ‘n Kort onthoudingsperiode van drie dae op tamaties beteken volgehoue kapasiteit vir beskerming teen teikeninsekte.

• SumiPleo® is nie van omgewingstemperatuur afhanklik soos met ander soorte aktiewe bestanddele nie (bv. piretroïede).

• Uitmuntende gehalte in formulasie wat lei tot uitstekende vermoë in reënvastheid sodra die spuitmengsel op die teikenplant droog geword het.

• Dit is ideaal vir gebruik in GPB strategieë.

As deel van die strategie om T. absoluta te beheer en weerstandsrisiko te verminder, word SumiPleo® in ‘n spuitprogram teen 250 ml/ha tot 300 ml/ha met ‘n volle dekbespuiting in 500 L tot 1 500 L water aangewend, sodra die plaag vir die eerste keer opgemerk word. Dien die laer dosis voorkomend toe en die hoër dosis wanneer die plaag teenwoordig is. Monitering en verkenning tydens die volle groeiseisoen bly krities tot suksesvolle beheer.

Philagro SA bied eksklusiewe toegang tot SumiPleo®, die nuutste in insekdodertegnologie uit Japan. Kontak die naaste Philagro-kundige of die produkbestuurder, Jaco Marais (072 390 3547) vir meer inligting.

Verwysings

1 RODITAKIS, E., VASAKIS, E., GRISPOU, M., STAVRAKAKI, M., NAUEN, R., MAGALI, G. & BASSI, A. 2015. First report of Tuta absoluta resistance to diamide insecticides. Journal of Pest Science, 88: 9-16.

Sleutelkenmerke rakende SumiPleo® sluit die volgende in (2):

• Unieke chemiese molekuul (dichloopropeen derivaat) met geen risiko vir kruisweerstand. Dit beskik oor ‘n nuwe geïdentifiseerde metode van werking wat nie met enige ander bestaande aktiewe bestanddeel gedeel word nie.

• Kontakmiddel met ‘n ingewand-verwante metode van werking (sel-vernietigende effekte by motlarwes).

2 SAKAMOTO, N., UEDA, N., UMEDA, K., MATSOU, S., HAGA, T., FUJUSAWA, T. & TOMIGAHARA, Y. 2005. Research and development of a novel insecticide “Pyridalyl”. Sumitomo Kagaku 2005-I.

3 VISSER, D., NOFEMELA, R. & MAILULA, T. 2017. The invasive tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta) in South Africa. ARC - Insect Ecology - Insect Pests: Fact Sheet no.3

RAADPLEEG DIE PRODUKETIKET VIR VOLLEDIGE GEBRUIKSAANWYSINGS EN BEPERKINGS

SumiPleo® is die geregistreerde handelsmerk van Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan. (Reg. nr. L8377, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) Bevat Piridalieldichloorpropeenderivaat, versigtig.

Figuur 1. Piridaliel se chemiese struktuur.

Tamatieprodukte wat werk

Kry doeltreffende beheer van skadelike swamsiektes, insekte en Rooispinmyte met Philagro se kragtige tamatie-treffers:

Rooispinmyte

• Meothrin® beheer onvolwasse en volwasse myte, terwyl Smite® alle onvolwasse stadia, insluitende eiers dood en wyfies steriliseer.

• ‘n Tenkmengsel van Smite® en Meothrin® is die oplossing vir ‘n populasie Rooispinmyte waar eiers, onvolwassenes en volwassenes teenwoordig is. Buiten die effektiwiteit is hierdie tenkmengsel ook die perfekte anti-weerstandsbespuiting.

• Milbeknock® 1% EC is ‘n is `n middel van natuurlike oorsprong wat alle stadiums van die Rooispinmyt lewenssiklus beheer. Hierdie produk pas uitstekend in ‘n anti-weerstandsprogram saam met Smite® en Meothrin®

Afrika bolwurm en Tamatie blaarmyner (Tuta absoluta)

• SumiPleo® word met groot sukses aangewend vir die beheer van Afrika bolwurm in tamaties en Aartappelmotlarwes in aartapples. SumiPleo® behoort aan ‘n nuwe chemie groep met geen kruisweerstand met ander produkte wat vir dieselfde gebruik geregistreer is nie. SumiPleo® het ook onlangs registrasie ontvang vir die beheer van tamatie Blaarmyner.

• Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC en Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW is twee middels met goeie UV sonligweerstand wat alle Snywurm spesies en Afrika bolwurm effektief in tamaties sal beheer.

Afrika bolwurm en Valslandmeterwurms

• DiPel® DF en Florbac® WG is van natuurlike oorsprong met geen onthoudingsperiode voor oes nie, wat beteken dat produsente tamatievrugte selfs tot een dag voor oes, sonder onthouding, teen kleiner Afrika bolwurms en Valslandmeterwurms kan behandel.

• Hierdie is middels met geen invloed op natuurlike insekvyande asook bestuiwers soos heuningbye het nie wat sal verseker dat die boer sy oes op die veilige manier beskerm.

Vroeëroes en Botrytis

• Sumisclex® SC is ’n ou staatmaker wat nog gereeld met groot tevredenheid toegedien word teen Vroeëroes en Botrytis op tamaties.

Praat gerus met jou naaste Philagro-agent oor betroubare tamatieprodukte wat werk.

RAADPLEEG DIE ONDERSKEIE PRODUKETIKETTE VIR VOLLEDIGE GEBRUIKSAANWYSINGS & -BEPERKINGS

Smite® (Reg. nr. L6011, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat etoksasool, versigtig. Sumisclex® SC (Reg. nr. L6377, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat prosimidoon. Sumi-Alpha® 200 EC (Reg. nr. L6452, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat esfenvaleraat, giftig. Sumi-Alpha® 200 EW (Reg. nr. L8821, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat esfenvaleraat, skadelik. Meothrin® (Reg. nr. L6385, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat fenpropatrien, giftig. DiPel® DF (Reg. nr. L6441, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat Bacillus thuringiensis var kurstaki. Florbac® WG (Reg. nr. L5531, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat Bacillus thuringiensis var aizawai. Milbeknock® 1% EC (Reg. nr. L6654, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat milbemektien, versigtig. SumiPleo® (Reg. nr. L8377, Wet nr. 36 van 1947) bevat piradaliel dichloropropeen derivaat, versigtig. Milbeknock® is die geregistreerde handelsmerk van Sumitomo Corporation, Japan. Smite®, Sumisclex®, Sumi-Alpha®, SumiPleo® en Meothrin® is geregistreerde handelsmerke van Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan. Florbac® en DiPel® is die geregistreerde handelsmerke van Valent BioSciences, VSA.

Philagro Suid-Afrika (Edms) Bpk l Reg. nr.: 98/10658107

PostNet Suite #378, Privaatsak X025, Lynnwoodrif 0040

Pretoria: 012 348 8808 l Somerset Wes: 021 851 4163 www.philagro.co.za

Pollination of CUCURBITS

With rising input costs putting pressure on growers, the requirement for high yields has never been more important. When it comes to cucurbit production, pollination is one of the most important yield-determining factors. Poor pollination can occur because of many factors and can have a major negative effect on cucurbit yields.

All field-grown cucurbits require pollination for fruit to develop, with the only exception being parthenocarpic cucumbers which are mostly grown in greenhouses. In most cucurbits, the male and female reproductive parts are located on separate flowers – there are thus male and female flowers on the same plant.

Pollination will take place when pollen gets transferred from the male to the female flower. Each seed in a fruit results from the fertilisation of one ovule with one pollen grain. The fruit size and shape are generally determined by the number of seeds in the fruit and thousands of pollen grains must normally land on the stigma of the female flower to successfully fertilise a large number of ovules.

In the case of cucurbits, the most important pollinators are bees. Major production losses will occur in the absence of these pollinators. Growers may often choose to rely on the natural

bee population to provide pollination for their crops, but this may not be sufficient to provide successful pollination.

The importance of having enough bees available at flowering time can be seen in the fact that pumpkin, squash and watermelon flowers require at least eight or more visits per female flower, for successful pollination to take place. The flowers open at around daybreak and are only open for one day - pollination of that flower must therefore take place that same day.

Inadequate pollination may lead to the production of lopsided, poorly shaped fruit which will be unmarketable. In severe cases, it can also lead to fruit abortion. To get optimum pollination, it is critical for cucurbit growers to introduce beehives to their fields. Hives should be placed when flowering starts, with at least three hives per hectare placed within 150 metres of the field. Make sure that there are no other flowers in the vicinity that are more attractive to bees.

Special precautions should also be taken with insecticide treatments during flowering. Only systemic pesticides should be sprayed and should be done in the afternoon or on cool, cloudy days when the bees are less active. Bees only visit flowers in the morning, thus systemic pesticides sprayed the previous afternoon should be absorbed by the following morning and a minimum number of bees will therefore be killed.

It is important to note that the activity of bees is also affected by environmental factors like temperature and humidity. When temperatures are below 9°C or when the humidity is low, bees are not very active, their flying is severely reduced and they will not visit the cucurbit flowers. Pollen usually dehydrates when the humidity is low and temperatures very high. Bees normally also don’t work when it is cloudy or rainy. Long periods of cloudy or rainy weather will thus also have a negative impact on yield.

For more information on the production practices of cucurbit crops as well as selecting the right variety for your area, visit the Sakata website at www.sakata.co.za.

DISCLAIMER: This information is based on observations and/or information from other sources. As crop performance depends on the interaction between the genetic potential of the seed, its physiological characteristics, and the environment, including management, no warranty is given express or implied, for the performance of crops relative to the information given nor do Sakata accept any liability for any loss, direct or consequential, that may arise from whatsoever cause. Please read the Sakata Seed Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd Conditions of Sale before ordering seed.

Evidence of poor pollination.

Evidence of poor pollination.

Pollinator in cucurbit flower.

The ingenious working of spirotetramat in CONTROLLING WHITEFLIES

Whiteflies, tiny sap-sucking insects belonging to the family Aleyrodidae, have long posed a significant threat to agriculture, damaging crops by feeding and transmitting plant viruses. Conventional methods to control whiteflies often involve chemical pesticide use, which can have detrimental effects on the environment, non-target organisms, and even human health.

Anovel solution has emerged from TIVOLI 240 SC in recent years. The active ingredient, spirotetramat, is a systemic insecticide that offers effective whitefly control while minimising the negative impact on ecosystems. TIVOLI 240 SC has a registration for whiteflies on citrus, cucurbits (including melons, squash, cucumbers, and pumpkins), tomatoes, peppers (including paprika, chillies, and eggplants), and tobacco.

Understanding spirotetramat: A mode of action

Spirotetramat is a member of the keto-enol group of insecticides and has demonstrated its prowess in disrupting the life cycle of whiteflies by interfering with their vital biological processes.

The key to its effectiveness lies in its unique mode of action that sets it apart from traditional chemical solutions. Unlike contact pesticides that directly harm insects upon contact, spirotetramat works systemically, meaning the plant absorbs and translocates it through its vascular system. This allows the insecticide to reach all parts of the plant, including areas where whiteflies feed and lay eggs.

At the heart of spirotetramat's mechanism is its inhibition of lipid biosynthesis. Lipids are essential components of cell membranes, and their production is pivotal for normal insect growth and development. Spirotetramat disrupts the insects' ability to synthesise lipids, halting their growth and reproduction. This, in turn, significantly reduces the population of whiteflies and prevents the spread of plant viruses they carry.

Advantages of TIVOLI 240 SC Targeted approach

Spirotetramat’s action is highly selective, focusing primarily on pests such as whiteflies. This selective nature reduces the risk of harming beneficial insects, such as pollinators and natural predators that play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.

Residue management

Traditional chemical pesticides often leave harmful residues on crops, affecting human health and contaminating the environment. Spirotetramat's highly systemic action and low residue levels on treated plants mitigate these concerns.

Long-lasting effects

The systemic nature of spirotetramat grants it a lasting effect,

as it remains active within the plant for an extended period. This prolonged protection ensures that the treated plants are safeguarded against whiteflies over an extended duration.

Resistance management

Pests can develop resistance to commonly used pesticides over time. Spirotetramat's novel mode of action offers a new tool in the fight against resistance, as whiteflies are less likely to have developed resistance mechanisms against this unique insecticide.

Reduced environmental impact

With growing concerns about the impact of agriculture on the environment, spirotetramat use provides a more sustainable pest management option. Its targeted approach and lower toxicity to non-target organisms align with the principles of integrated pest management (IPM).

Application and recommendations

Proper application techniques are crucial to harness the full potential of TIVOLI 240 SC in controlling whiteflies. Farmers and agricultural professionals must follow recommended guidelines for dosage, timing, and application methods. Adhering to these guidelines diligently ensures effective whitefly control and preserves the environment and beneficial insect populations.

It is important to note that while TIVOLI 240 SC is a powerful tool in integrated pest management strategies, it is not a standalone solution. A holistic approach incorporating cultural

TO PAGE 26

Whiteflies on cucumber leaves.

The perfect fit every time

One plus one is three

In the realm of agriculture, where the battle against destructive pests rages on, finding the perfect fit - the ultimate solution that surpasses the efficacy of individual components - is a goal pursued by growers and scientists alike. With the survival of crops and food security top of mind, a comprehensive approach to pest control is needed.

Emamectin benzoate and lufenuron, two powerful active ingredients, complement each other's activity in a synergistic approach which results in one plus one equalling three in terms of activity.

Emamectin benzoate, a potent group 6 insecticide, is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to combating lepidopteran pests. By targeting nerve and muscle function, this insecticide swiftly inhibits feeding in insect pests to put an end to the damage they cause to crops. It is effective against all larval instars, working through direct contact and translaminar modes of action, with both ovicidal and larvicidal properties.

Lufenuron belongs to IRAC group 15 and operates as a chitin synthesis inhibitor. It impairs the target pest from developing from one stage to the next and its transovarial action ensures that its effectiveness is carried over to the next generation. By decreasing the number and viability of eggs laid, lufenuron sig-

nificantly disrupts the reproductive potential of pests.

Individually, emamectin benzoate and lufenuron have proven themselves reliable and effective pest control agents. However, the power of their combination elevates their impact to new heights. By harnessing the strength of both active ingredients, growers benefit from an enhanced, synergistic effect.

No dust Denim®

The combination of two stellar actives is not the only trick up Denim® Fit’s pantleg. It also boasts a unique static formulation with Pepite™ technology that greatly reduces dust during measurement for safer use.

Immediate dispersal in water and a quick-pouring and dust-free formulation make Denim® Fit significantly safer than other WG formulations. In addition to operator safety, this world-class formulation ensures safe storage as there is no separation or sedimentation, active-ingredient degradation or susceptibility to freezing, and very low flammability. The small particles also improve target coverage and mixability.

One size fits all

It offers a comprehensive and effective one-pot solution for controlling lepidoptera and thrips on a wide range of crops, including tomatoes, maize, soybeans, and sunflower.

By leveraging the individual strengths of the two active ingredients, Syngenta created a powerful and reliable solution capable of combating even the most resilient pests. This combination effectively targets multiple stages of the pest’s lifecycle while reducing the development of resistance.

Denim® Fit's practicality and versatility make it an excellent choice for pest management. By embracing this effective blend of active ingredients, growers can confidently protect their crops and achieve the best possible yields.

With Denim® Fit, real progress in agriculture is no longer a dream, but an achievable reality.

READ THE PRODUCT LABEL FOR FULL DETAILS.

DENIM® Fit contains emamectin benzoate 100 g/kg and lufenuron 400 g/kg (Reg. no. L9978, Act 36 of 1947) CAUTION.

DENIM® Fit, the Alliance frame, the Purpose icon and the Syngenta wordmark are trademarks of a Syngenta group company.

Syngenta South Africa (Pty) Limited, Private Bag X60, Halfway House, 1685. Tel. (011) 541 4000. www.syngenta.co.za

© Syngenta Ag, 2000. Copyright of this document is reserved. All unauthorised reproduction is forbidden.

The ingenious working of spirotetramat in controlling whiteflies | FROM PAGE 24

practices, biological control agents, and resistant crop varieties can enhance the product's effectiveness further and contribute to sustainable agriculture.

The working of TIVOLI 240 SC in controlling sucking insects is yet another example of innovative pest management by Villa Crop Protection. By disrupting lipid biosynthesis and inhibiting the growth and reproduction of these insects, this systemic insecticide offers a targeted, long-lasting, and envi-

ronmentally friendly solution to a persistent agricultural problem. As sustainable agriculture gains prominence, TIVOLI 240 SC stands as a beacon of progress in the pursuit of balanced ecosystems, bountiful harvests, and a healthier planet.

TIVOLI 240 SC is also registered on avocados, maize, potatoes, carrots, and grapes for several other sucking insects. Please consult the product label. Visit www.villacrop.co.za for more information.

Microscopic view of the chitin cuticle of a caterpillar after treatment with SORBA: no new chitin synthesis in the Endocuticle.

Denim Fit

te taai vir tuta

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

3 redes om DENIM® Fit te kies:

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

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

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

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

LEES DIE PRODUKETIKET VIR VOLLEDIGE BESONDERHEDE. DENIM®

Fit bevat emamektien bensoaat 100g/kg en lufenuron 400g/kg (Reg. nr. L9978, Act 36 van 1947) VERSIGTIG. DENIM® Fit, die verwantskapraam, die doelwit-ikoon en die woord Syngenta is handelsmerke van ’n Syngenta groepmaatskappy. Syngenta Suid-Afrika (Edms) Beperk, Privaatsak X60, Halfway House, 1685. Tel. (011) 541 4000. www.syngenta.co.za © Syngenta Ag, 2000. Kopiereg van hierdie dokument is voorbehou. Alle onregmatige kopiëring word verbied.

The perfect parasitoid

Insectec is a leader in the production

of natural enemies

and the implementation thereof in an integrated pest management system. They are mealybug specialists and produce four different biological control products that are responsible for controlling different stages of the mealybug life cycle.

Mealybugs are small sap-sucking scale insects, coated with a white powdery wax resembling meal. They can be a serious pest to various crops by producing toxins that can cause deformation of the plant and produce, which can lead to severe yield losses and export difficulties. The parasitic wasp, Anagyrus vladimiri, is a common biological control agent that has been used with great success for many years in the agricultural industry. ANA-TEC (A. vladimiri) effectively controls mealybug targets and is well-adapted to many different crops and cropping systems.

The male and female A. vladimiri differ from one another, also known as sexual dimorphism. The females are 1-2 mm in length, brown in colour with a white and black banded antenna that has a distinctive black bulge close to the head. The males are about 0,8 mm in length, black in colour and have long black antennae filled with hairlike filaments. The pupae are a characteristic yellow-brown colour and are approximately 1,8 mm in length. The female wasps target the larger mealybug life stages, from the 3rd instar nymph to adult female mealybugs. She inserts her ovipositor into the mealybug host laying an egg into its body. Sometimes the egg is encapsulated by the mealybug leaving a distinct black spot, which is a sure sign of parasitoid activity.

After hatching, the larva consumes the entire content of the mealybug while growing through five larval instars. It then pupates within the dried-out mealybug, this is also referred to as the “mummy.” After 15 days, the adult wasp hatches from the pupa, mates, and continues to lay eggs. It takes A. vladimiri roughly 15 days to complete its life cycle from egg to

adult. The adult wasp has an average life span of 7-14 days, during which a female can produce roughly 30 offspring.

ANA-TEC can be used in most fruit tree orchards and protected vegetable and ornamental crops such as citrus, pome fruit, vines, blueberries and sweet peppers. They can be used to target a variety of mealybug species, namely; Citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri), Vine mealybug (Planococcus ficus), Grape mealybug (Pseudococcus maritimus), Obscure mealybug (Pseudococcus viburni) and Oleander mealybug (Paracoccus burnerae).

The product has a simple and fast in-field application method, consisting of 250 or 500 mummies with an inert carrier and is packed in Insectec’s biodegradable packaging. The success of the natural enemies’ release can only be established with proper monitoring. It is important to frequently monitor the pest and beneficial populations in the field before and after the release of ANA-TEC onto the crop. Two to four weeks after the release one can expect to see the second generation of wasps in the field. Parasitism, a black spot on top of live mealybugs, can be seen 2-3 weeks after a release. This is a good indication that ANA-TEC has been established and that subsequent generations will effectively control the mealybug infestation.

ANA-TEC can be used in conjunction with many chemical pesticides and can also be combined with Insectecs’ other products namely; CRYPTO-TEC (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri), NEPH-TEC (Nephus kamburovi) and COCCI-TEC (Coccidoxenoides perminutus). It is always best to consult with an Insectec field advisor before using any of these products.

Citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri)

Global consumer trends can affect fresh produce marketing

Customers are the lifeline of a business and their behaviours never stop evolving. Understanding this can help companies to stay competitive, says Rubab Abdoolla, a Senior Analyst at Euromonitor International. She informed attendees to the recent International Frech Produce Association’s (IFPA's) Southern Africa Conference in Cape Town of Euromonitor International’s research findings based on products, industries, demographics and consumer lifestyles.

MARIANA PURNELL CONTRIBUTOR

Abdoolla’s presentation focused on the top ten global consumer trends in 2023. This report is updated each year to serve as a compass for businesses, enabling them to proactively anticipate disruptions, foresee shopping drivers, and meet unaddressed demands. Euromonitor International also releases five-year projections which can provide much insight to guide business investments, decisions and growth plans.

This article groups the leading ten global consumer trends highlighted by Abdoolla into three main trends: Consumer expenditure, Digital and Lifestyle with the aim of emphasising their potential influence on the promotion, and utilisation of fresh produce word-wide.

By incorporating these strategies into their marketing and product lineup, companies can not only synchronise with these global consumer trends but also pioneer innovative and engaging approaches to encourage the consumption of fresh produce whilst overcoming the perishability factor.

CONSUMER EXPENDITURE TRENDS Here and now: living in the moment

Consumers are embracing short-term buying approaches, seeking joy and instant gratification. Businesses can create campaigns targeting special occasions, incorporating emotional marketing. To promote the use of fresh produce, brands could launch pop-up shops with fresh, seasonal produce offerings for limited-time sales. Loyalty programmes could offer rewards for purchases, making it an attractive option for impulse purchases. Given the reality of loadshedding in South Africa, there's potential locally for a new emphasis on promoting the immediate consumption of some fresh produce in its raw state. Alternatives are creative campaigns like Starbucks and Delta Air Lines that linked their rewards programmes to deliver additional benefits like earning miles on coffee purchases.

Budgeteers: savvy spending

Consumers continue to prioritise savings due to economic uncertainties. Budgeteers switch to e-commerce to avoid trans-

portation expenses and find deals. In 2022, the top reason consumers shopped online was to get the best price. Brands can adapt by offering affordable assortments and forming strong partnerships. To encourage the use of fresh produce, businesses could collaborate with local farmers and markets to provide cost-effective options. Promotions and loyalty programs should thus focus on purchasing fresh produce and incentivise budget-conscious consumers to prioritise healthy eating within their spending plans.

Eco economic: sustainable choices

Decreased consumption for economic reasons has led to a focus on sustainability. Saving takes precedence - consumers will continue switching to energy-saving products, eating at home, reducing appliance use and limiting travel. Grocery retailer Sainsbury’s opened Sainsfreeze, a pop-up walk-in freezer, that showed consumers which foods can be frozen. Businesses can provide energy-saving products and services. To integrate fresh produce, companies could introduce farm-to-table initiatives, partnering with local farmers to provide consumers with sustainable, locally sourced fruits and vegetables.

Some 55% of the respondents to the Euromonitor International Voice of the Consumer: Lifestyles Survey (January/ February 2022) indicated that they want to reduce food waste (Figure 1) and 43% intended to reduce energy consumption. Fresh produce companies could demonstrate how to use fruit and vegetable waste in numerous ways that contribute to a sustainable environment. Packaging could be made degradable or recyclable.

Worldwide the food industry is tackling food waste which is valued at $600 billion post-harvest, of which $400 billion worth of food is wasted annually on the retail front. This makes up 7% of total grocery sales. Much is still edible but does not meet appearance, size, or packaging standards. Consumers globally misunderstand best-before dates, leading to unnecessary discards. The UK now removes such labels on

TO PAGE 30

Rubab Abdoolla, senior analyst at Euromonitor International

Global consumer trends can affect fresh produce marketing |

produce, aligning with a 50% food waste reduction goal by 2030. South Africa wastes 10 million tonnes of food yearly, 70% from fruits, vegetables, and cereals in early supply stages.

DIGITAL TRENDS

Authentic automation: human-tech balance

Eight out of 10 consumers under 29 would be comfortable interacting with robots. But tech is only part of the equation. Consumers still crave the personal touch. Brands can create seamless, integrated experiences. To promote the use of fresh produce, companies can develop apps that offer personalised recipes and meal plans incorporating seasonal produce. Interactive chatbots could assist customers in selecting the best fruits and vegetables for their needs. Advanced algorithms and hyper-personalisation help to offer curated content, products, or services that reflect a customers’ distinct preferences.

While automation is increasing, human touch remains essential. Farmers Metamarket is a virtual farmers market in the Metaverse that brings online shoppers face to face at the farmers market but just like in a real-life market, it allows for shoppers to connect with the people behind the brands. Another approach is self-checkout services that offer consumers greater convenience without long queues but only accept cashless options.

Control the scroll: mindful tech use

Consumers are prioritising mindful online activities. Brands should not be a distraction but should refine digital experiences for efficiency. Notifications need to be regulated, intentional and relevant. To encourage fresh produce consumption, brands could create apps that provide nutritional information and meal planning tools, helping users make informed choices. Interactive platforms could offer virtual cooking classes and tutorials featuring fresh produce, making healthy cooking more engaging and accessible.

Game on: mainstream gaming

Gaming is becoming a major form of entertainment. Brands can tap into gaming culture as this once-niche segment is now a mass-market opportunity. Sponsorships, advertisements, in-game purchases and product innovations are the primary revenue drivers thus far. To connect with gamers and promote healthy habits, businesses could develop interactive games that educate players about the benefits of fresh produce.

Pick'n Pay has tapped into the Metaverse by offering free Robux in South Africa. Robux is the digital currency used in Roblox, which allows users to purchase new avatar accessories and in-game upgrades. Pick'n Pay also plans to sell Robux vouchers in rands.

LIFESTYLE TRENDS

Revived routines: embracing normalcy

The recent tumultuous years have left consumers seeking reallife experiences and normalised activities. Brands should align their marketing with everyday occasions. To promote the use of fresh produce, businesses could collaborate with wellness experts to offer meal preparation ideas that center around in-

FROM PAGE 29

corporating fresh fruits and vegetables.

Marketing campaigns could focus on the simplicity and joy of cooking with seasonal produce, encouraging consumers to make healthier choices. Consumers do not want to be cooped up. Nightlife is revitalised and restaurant reservations are on the rebound. Food, beverage, hospitality and entertainment, amongst other service sectors, are primed to reintroduce fun and excitement outside the home.

She rises: gender equality

To support gender equality and fresh produce consumption, businesses could collaborate with female-led agricultural initiatives. Highlighting stories of women in farming and showcasing their contributions to fresh produce could resonate with consumers who align with the values of gender equality. By expanding product ranges to cater to more body types and age groups, food and supplement manufacturers can develop formulations that target nutritional demands during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause.

The thrivers: finding balance

Although the World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests a daily intake of 400 grams of fruits and vegetables per person, the actual consumption stands at 267 grams each day. This highlights a worldwide challenge concerning unhealthy diets. A staggering three billion individuals are unable to access nutritious diets, contributing to an estimated 11 million deaths globally due to dietary risk factors.

Consumers are seeking balance and simplicity but put personal needs above all else. Brands can provide products that cater to immediate needs. To align with the trend, businesses could offer subscription services delivering fresh, pre-prepared meal kits incorporating a variety of seasonal produce. These kits could target overwhelmed consumers looking for convenience and balanced nutrition.

Popular cereal brand Weet-bix launched breakfast biscuits, ideal for busy on-the-go consumers who are replacing meals like breakfast with snacks. Biscuits are a convenient meal replacement options since it is calorically dense and high in energy. Similarly, the Dutchie Plus+ cup yogurt also addresses this market as it improves gut health.

Young and disrupted: Gen Z's impact

Gen Z's influence is growing. Gen Z is immune to traditional advertising and they want to feel a genuine connection when engaging with brands. Successful brands are built around stories to form strong connections with these consumers. Testimonials and reviews are trusted more than traditional advertising. Brands should prioritise authenticity and relatability. To resonate with this generation and promote fresh produce, companies could collaborate with popular Gen Z influencers to create engaging content around healthy eating. Social media campaigns could showcase innovative ways to prepare and enjoy fresh produce, catering to Gen Z's interest in authenticity and individuality.

In a nutshell, consumers must be encouraged to find their health fix on the farm and not the pharmacy. On the fresh produce supply side, it must be remembered that while technology matters, the personal touch still rules!

BASF-OPLOSSINGS

VIR SITRUS

Verwag top kwaliteit vir die uitvoermark met BASFoplossings vir sitrus

Treevix® is ’n innoverende onkruidbestuuroplossing vir die beheer van moeilik beheerbare breëblaaronkruide in sitrusboorde, insluitend sekere ALS, triasien en glifosaat-weerstandige biotipe onkruide. Met Treevix® word ’n dramatiese verbetering in sitrusboord onkruidbeheer teweeggebring deur die kragtige blaaraktiwiteit en uitstekende sistemiese werking in onkruide. Die werking is aansienlik vinniger as huidige oplossings in die sitrusbedryf. Doeltreffende onkruidbeheer verminder onkruidsaadproduksie wat gevolglik verlaagde onkruiddruk in toekomstige seisoene meebring. Treevix® is ’n ideale komponent in ’n breëblaaronkruid-weerstandbestuurprogram vir sitrusboorde.

Cabrio® is die staatmaker wat sitrusswartvlek (Guignardia citricarpa) beheer betref en gemoedsrus verseker wanneer vrugte vir uitvoer bestem is. Cabrio® vorm deel van ’n reeks BASFprodukte wat aan die vereistes voldoen om ’n AgCelence®oplossing genoem te kan word. Hierdie kriteria behels verhoogde plantgroeidoeltreffendheid en plantstresverdraagsaamheid, verlengde vrugdrag van ouer bome sowel as meer eenvormige vruggroottes wat optimale uitpak verseker. Cabrio® is ’n beproefde oplossing en word gebruik deur talle uitvoer sitrusprodusente op verskeie sitrusvariëteite.

Broadband® is ’n toppresterende biologiese insekdoder vir die beheer van valskodlingmot in sitrus, wat jou die beste kwaliteit vrugte vir die uitvoermark verseker. Broadband® se insluiting in ’n valskodlingmot-beheerprogram verseker gemoedsrus wanneer vrugte vir die uitvoermark bestem is. Die hoë konsentrasie Beauveria bassiana spore in Broadband® beloop ’n minimum van 4 x 109 lewenskragtige spore per mℓ en is aktief op alle fases van die inseklewensiklus eiers, larwes, onvolwassenes en volwassenes wat in die blaredak teenwoordig mag wees tydens bespuiting.

Broadband® is ideaal vir insekweerstandbestuurprogramme aangesien geen weerstand opgebou word nie. Broadband® sal ook witvlieg en rooidopluis beheer indien teenwoordig tydens die valskodlingmotbespuiting in die seisoen. Die gerieflike vloeibare formulasie is uniek en kan vir 20 maande by 4 °C gestoor word. Die vloeibare formulasie maak giet en meng makliker as droë formulasies. Met geen MRL-beperkings, kan Broadband® gedurende enige groeistadium van die gewas toegedien word en is ’n ideale oplossing vir gebruik in ’n GPB (Geïntegreerde Plaagbestuurprogram) vir valskodlingmot.

Hunter® 24 SC is ’n insekdoder met ’n besonderse wyse van werking. Hierdie hoogs-effektiewe oplossing beheer blaaspootjies met maagaktiwiteit. Geen bekende kruisweerstand is aangemeld teen ander insekdoders nie, dus is dit ideeal om in ’n weerstandbestuurprogram te gebruik. Die nawerking op larwes, nimfe en volwasse blaaspootjies verseker langdurige beheer. Hunter® 24 SC is uiters reënvas na toediening, word in minder as ’n uur geabsorbeer en versprei deur die blare (translaminêr) sodat blaaspootjies wat nie direk blootgestel is nie, bv. aan die onderkant van die blaar, ook beheer word.

’n Gerieflike blaarbespuiting of lokaastoediening opsie is beskikbaar vir toediening voor blomblaarval, sodat vrugte optimaal beskerm word en die risiko vir residue in vrugte beperk word. Hunter® 24 SC moet gedurende die seisoen as deel van ’n geïntegreerde blaaspootjiebeheerprogram gebruik word.

BASF verseker kwaliteit produkte wat deeglik getoets is en tegnies ondersteun word.

Lees altyd die etiket en volg gebruiksaanwysings getrou. Vir navrae besoek ons webwerf vir u naaste kontakpersoon www.agro.basf.co.za

BASF Suid Afrika (Edms) Bpk • Sestiendestraat 852, Midrand, 1685

Using modern technology to simplify enhance the fruit exportation process

Using modern technology to simplify and enhance the fruit exportation process

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

Technology is bridging the gap between one of the oldest the world and the endless wonders of modern and technology. Through infrastructure transformation and digital ecosystem of traditional and cloud-based holistic range of industry-leading solutions offers flexibility and can be scaled to address the needs of and Large Enterprises.

Evolve your business and become a global competitor.

Evolve your business and become a global competitor.

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

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