Undercover
farming
ucf
MARCH/APRIL 2022
I VOLUME 19 NO 2 I I R45.00 per issue
PRODUCE MANAGEMENT
NEW YOUNG ENTRANTS
WATER MANAGEMENT
NEW VOICE OF AGRICULTURE
Using Quality Seed and Premium Management Page 4
New young entrants to the Greenhouse industry welcomed Page 9
Water Management in the Greenhouse: How to manage alkalinity Page 13
The New Voices of Agriculture: Young, Diverse, Innovative Page 18
L
U
DB O N A
radio
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS PROPRIETOR I ADVERTISING SUZANNE OOSTHUIZEN 082 832 1604 suzanne@axxess.co.za EDITORIAL CONTENT & COMPILATION Johan Swiegers 082 882 7023 editors@axxess.co.za ADDRESS PO Box 759, Montana Park 0159 E-MAIL magazine@axxess.co.za FAX 086 518 3430 DESIGN Yolandé van Zyl FINANCE / NEW PROJECTS Marion Oosthuizen 071 639 9300 DISCLAIMER Undercover Farming accepts no responsibility for claims made in advertisements or for opinions and recommendations expressed by individuals or any other body or organisation in articles published in Undercover Farming. COPYRIGHT Copyright is reserved and the content may only be reproduced with the consent of the Editor.
Contents 4
Using Quality Seed and Premium Management to Produce Reputable Greenhouse Produce
7
Fresh produce markets outlook – what about food security?
9
New young entrants to the Greenhouse industry welcomed
11
Combat powdery mildew in humid or wet conditions
12 14
Undercover Farming Conference 2022 Overview
16 18
How poor fruit set influence a good harvest
Water Management in the Greenhouse: How to manage alkalinity
FRONT PAGE: Using Quality Seed and Premium Management to Produce Reputable Greenhouse Produce. Read pp4,6
INSIDE ...
7
The New Voices of Agriculture: Young, Diverse, Innovative
16
SUBSCRIBE Obtain your Undercover Farming magazine digitally! ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION Subscribe online now! E-mail your deposit and address details to: magazine@axxess.co.za More information from Suzannne Oosthuizen: 082 832 1604 See subscription form on page 16 VISIT US AT • BESOEK ONS BY
THE SCRIPTURES
2 Corinthians 9:6-11 Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.
Subscription details on p19
18
A
nother successful Undercover Farming Conference has just been completed on 16 March. A good variety of exhibitors and role players of repute rubbed shoulders with the visitors to exchange ideas and discuss matters of the day in greenhouse farming. These annual conferences are worthwhile to attend and especially for new entrants to the industry. It is a culmination of experienced growers and inputs specialists that get together to progress the industry in South Africa. Listening to presenters one is astounded by the progress made since the humble start of a single greenhouse in the country by a Dutch flower grower way back in the 1930’s. Today, technology is on our side to make life easier but still, good management is the basic principle of success as you will read in the following pages. Farmers are often criticized as moneymakers but then, so are any businessman who excels and grows his business. It is the sheer business acumen and will to rise every morning to face obstacles daily and resolve such with solutions. The same as the owner of a city business will do. We are faced with a situation at our markets in local and city areas that soon could cause major fresh produce supply disruptions for the masses if national and local governments do not take action now. More on the subject in an editorial in this edition. It warms one’s heart to read news from around the country where young people are getting interested in agriculture; for so many years we heard youngsters say they are against agriculture as it means too hard work. There is a Biblical principle of a man that does not work, cannot eat. Whether one intend to be a writer, builder, mechanic or salesman; hard work is followed by good benefits. It is not only the revenue, but the success that drives you to do better! Every success for our newcomer greenhouse producers and an urgent but kind reminder to experienced producers; please offer advice to young people who want to farm. We put our faith in organizations and companies to invest heavily in the food producers of tomorrow!
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 3
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
Using Quality Seed and Premium Management to Produce Reputable Greenhouse Produce
Handrey du Plessis of Nocton Acht Agri, Thornhill produces Rijk Zwaan Brinjals in shade net structures and blocky peppers in tunnels and under net structures. the pepper plants. Nocton Acht Agri grows Brinjals on an area of 5 000 m². The average yield per square meter is between 18-20 kilograms, and on average 54 Brinjals per square meter is obtained.
“W
e plant our Brinjal seedlings in a Coir/ Coco Peat mix and make use of 100x16x15cm Vegimix growslabs supplied by Glen Cairns trading in East London. We plant 4 plants per bag and that gives us 6 litres of grow medium per plant,” Handrey explained. Brinjals are trellised in order to increase productivity, increase air and light around the plant to optimise growth potential. Three stems per plant are trellised and the side shoots needs to be stopped but not as much work as
4 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
The irrigation and fertilizer processes are the same for Brinjals and Peppers. The farm has the advantage of a source of good quality water which means it does not require filtration. On the question of imminent diseases or pests on plants, Handrey said they follow a proven spraying program with Nulandis, and perform scouting every week. “Since the Brinjal plant has bigger leaves than the Pepper plant, it attracts thrips and red spider mite easier. So far we haven’t had any issues. You need to pay attention to detail and follow your spraying program otherwise you will encounter problems,” he advised. “The Brinjals produced at Nocton Acht
Agri are Rijk Zwaan’s varieties. We plant the purple Sharapova and striped variety called Leire. The quality is excellent and we haven’t tested other varieties from suppliers as we are satisfied with the quality and productivity of our plants. “We obtain our seedlings from Moorland Seedlings. They are close to our farm and delivers quality seedlings on time, always,” Handrey said. Rijk Zwaan Peppers Handrey reports that they plant their peppers in Coir/ Coco Peat and make use of 100x16x15cm Vegimix growslabs supplied by Glen Cairns trading in East London. They also trellis 3 stems per plant for a higher yield and quality. “Rijk Zwaan has high quality seeds, which is why we are using them. Their representative, Schalk Kotze visits the farm on a weekly basis and we have the support of their broader team at the touch of a button. We find Rijk Zwaan an excellent company to partner with. They are on top of their game with research and new varieties to improve our yields,” Handrey promptly said. The farm has two hectares under shade net houses and a half hectare with plastic covered tunnels. Their yield with
6
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
n
lo me
er mb cu cu
h Ko i
ab
lr
r
pe
p Pe
Find your variety
ot
ro
et Be
er ow ifl ul Ca
Rijk Zwaan offers a wide range of high-quality vegetable varieties. We select and test them thoroughly to ensure their suitability for growing in South African conditions. In addition to the seeds themselves, we also provide reliable information about the performance of our varieties and expert cultivation advice from our crop specialists. This ensures the grower has the best start to a successful harvest.
ce
tu
oe at
m Tso oe at
m To
Let
s
36 Steyn Road, Rietvallei Farm Krugersdorp 1739 South Africa | Postal address P.O. Box 2259, Ruimsig Krugersdorp 1732 South Africa Tel: +27 61 120 3082 / 116 9690 / 116 956 Undercover farming I | March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 1 5 Email: info@rijkzwaan.co.za www.rijkzwaan.co.za
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
4 QUALITY SEEDS
8 months only. The plants occupy the structure for 11 months and then the structure is cleaned out, sanitized and prepared for the next crop. According to Handrey his team knows the Rijk Zwaan brand and the representative as they see him on a regular basis. They are very proud of the quality of the peppers being produced and to be part of the process.
Handrey du Plessis peppers varies between 18-19 kg per m² in the tunnels and 14-15 kg per m² in the net houses and get sorted and marketed by Patensie Acht farming. The duration of a pepper plant’s life depends on the season and rainfall. From plant to first fruit for greens take 50-60 days and for the coloured fruit 71-113 days. This depends on the weather and time of season. The farm produces year-round, but a single plant produces for approximately
“The biggest challenge is to manage Thrips (Thripidae) and diseases on peppers. As we are situated close to the ocean, powdery mildew is another threat we need to manage regularly. The health and quality of the plant is critical, hence the solid management of our people working in the greenhouses, to ensure disciplined, daily care of the plants is important. One always needs a well-balanced plant to keep the quality and health of the plant optimal. “I think as producers we need to pay more attention to detail, be more effective and learn to produce more with less! We need to adapt and stay on top of climate change, be open to new research and products that are available for us to help us improve our yields and
quality,” Handrey explained. In conclusion, Handrey du Plessis added: “It’s very important to realize that the work we put in today won’t pay off tomorrow! Stick to it; consistency and habit are key!” “Love the journey as much as the destination! Your hard work will be worth it at the end!” is Handrey’s excellent advice to all fresh produce farmers. JS
Handrey Du Plessis (right) in one of the Nocton Acht Agri greenhouses. With him appears his grower technician and greenhouse assistant team leader.
6 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
Markets are important parts of infrastructure in major towns and cities. These must be well-managed to draw clientele and service the producer with excellence. (Pics: Fresh Plaza)
Fresh produce markets outlook – what about food security?
A
report was given by Francois Knowles, Registrar at APAC, as of the end of February 2022 that indicates produce sold at markets grew by 6.8% (negative growth of 0.3%). The volume traded in 2020/21 at markets was 3 266 366 metric tonnes of produce (fruit and vegetables). There are factors though that influences a measure of hesitancy by some producers to increase or just keep going, mega farmers need to go back to the drawing board to accommodate the increased fuel prices and the exacerbated fertilizer cost. A major concern, however, is the general infrastructure that is not being serviced by local and state governmental bodies. Poor road conditions in country areas where farmers have to transport their produce to markets are in a dilapidated state with potholes and road surfaces washed away or simply just obliterated because of absent maintenance. Infrastructure issues By way of example; a producer from far out of town needs to transport his tomatoes, cabbage or other delicate vegetables via a road with potholes every few meters; a wheel or axle breaks because of the road condition and the truck stands for hours in the sun. When the product eventually reaches the market it fetches a lower
than anticipated price. Never mind when it reaches the retail shelf and it is not sold as it is in an underrated state in the eyes of the consumer. Here government and specifically the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) should sharpen their pencils and make their voices heard at local and national meetings with Public Works, Transport, Minerals and Energy, Labour, and others. Various platforms are used to emphasize land reform, new farmer policies, and financial aid; but if current producers are faced with the obstacles mentioned above, what motivation does it bear to newcomers, even if one gets land free? Everybody in the world is crying out for increased food production, food security, higher vegetative content foods for healthy living, and what more – but how on earth are we going to get the producer to answer to this enormous challenge if we do not give him the infrastructure he direly needs to get his produce to markets?
State of Fresh Produce Markets Another major obstacle is the lack of local management at markets. Buyers visit markets and the security system, to say the least, is absent as trucks, bakkies and cars are being broken into and thus buyers are endangered. Worse than
8
Clean markets with well displayed produce draw buyers, but sadly, poorly managed and rubble on floors and around markets disdain buyers from attending.
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 7
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
7 FRESH PRODUCE MARKETS that, at the Tshwane market, informal traders are accumulating around the market fences, selling produce (which are obviously of poor quality and often from undesirable origin) to visitors to the market. The market itself, and even other markets in the country in general, is in a dirty, poorly kept, and undermanaged state and offends large buyers to visit these platforms. According to Knowles, the Cape Town Fresh Produce Market is well-kept and well-managed with infrastructure, roads leading to it, and security in place. Why can one market keep up its infrastructure and not the others? All eyes are turned to local governments who have a serious lack of responsibility to their public (and taxpayers) in creating favourable circumstances under which foodstuffs are traded. Many local authorities are bankrupt (and it is general knowledge why) therefore, the taxes goes for exorbitant member salaries etc, and the Eskom accounts cannot be paid; neither can the water supply systems be maintained and therefore the markets suffer, the inhabitants of towns suffer as the foodstuffs they have to buy (those able to buy) are faced with a lack of variety or poor quality. In some regions in South Africa though, fresh producers are doing everything possible to keep their quality standards high, even going as far as to repair roads up to the regional roads themselves
in order to ensure their products reach consumers in good stead. But Governmental officials and local officials will have to rethink this most important situation to avoid a national upheaval over poor service delivery while the public cannot obtain proper foodstuffs and worse than that, pay such exorbitant prices. Urgent solutions The indifference of officials in local municipalities must change towards their local markets, focus on road and security infrastructure to and around fresh produce markets, and put positive labels on these markets to make the public aware of its importance in the food security and supply chain. Job creation, and hereby means employees with thorough training and keenness to work with foodstuffs in a hygienic manner, should be high on the agenda. A new look is needed at the farmer’s needs and this counts for producers of all foodstuffs from all backgrounds. No longer can one race be singled out as having all the advantages; South Africa currently has a good mix of farmers from different race groups and all of these are faced with the same problems created by a government that stands indifferent to this most important sector. During the Covid pandemic, it was agriculture that added the biggest figure to the country’s GDP, and that alone speaks for itself. Isn’t it time we tell the government; “Put your money where
your mouth is?” Young Farmers Now In past years many young black farmers coming from banking, IT, business, school, even aviation started small operations to try their hand at agriculture and today they count among South Africa’s foremost young farmers – not because they held a hand out to give them money, but simply they understood to start small, learn hard and cooperate with people who know the farming trade. Now they fly on their own in a manner of speaking. Isn’t this what we need to promote in South Africa taking agriculture and food security forward? Stop Defragmentation A famous statesman once said;” Now is the time for all good men to stand together and fight in a war to win.” This is the most appropriate gesture we can make for all South Africans who have food security at heart – not own, personal enrichment. Whether you are propagating seedlings, producing wheat, fruit, or fresh produce, in whichever way and wherever you are and on whatever scale you produce, be prepared to take hands and unite in order to feed South Africa. Let us get the South African brand back on the billboards of foreign countries, offer employment while also instituting proper training and financial futures for all. JS
Remember to subscribe for your electronic copy of Undercover Farming! See P19 SUBSCRIBE
8 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
Climate change will have drastic impacts on South Africa’s economy and society and the need to adapt is urgent.
New young entrants to the Greenhouse industry welcomed
A
s the country embarks on a just transition to a lowcarbon, climate-resilient and environmentally-sustainable economy, an opportunity exists to develop domestic small, green businesses. This case study forms part of a broader initiative on small business development in South Africa’s climate change space. It presents the journey and experience of Mogale Maleka and Tumelo Pule, two South African engineers active in the climate change adaptation space.
Vertical pipe systems for small scale commercial farming on the market generally do not have a water storage capacity incorporated in their designs. Irrigating systems therefore have to run continuously to prevent the plant roots from becoming dry and hindering plant growth or killing the plant. Electricity in South Africa is becoming more and more expensive and more unreliable due to power failures making it economically unsustainable to operate hydroponic systems continuously over extended periods of time.
Mogale Maleka and Tumelo Pule met while studying mechanical engineering at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), and together developed the idea of using hydroponic technology to foster efficient farming solutions for fresh produce.
With the assistance of funding from UJ-PEETS, Maleka and Pule designed the prototype that allows culinary plants to be irrigated periodically, thereby reducing energy use and allowing mineral solution to flow through to individual plants.
Despite the stigma associated with farming by young people, who gravitate towards professional careers, the team embraced hydroponic farming as a career path while in their 20s. HydroponicS technology complements their engineering skills and is a unique application through which they can harness the technical knowledge gained during their tertiary education. Maleka and Tumelo Pule, under the auspices of AB Farms (an agricultural tech company), looked at a way to upscale the system for small scale and commercial farming and approached UJ-PEETS for assistance to improve the irrigation system.
According to Mogale Maleka: “Given its ability to store water within the design, it will reduce the amount of energy required to grow produce while simultaneously increasing the planting density per square meter, thus reducing costs and increasing production capacity. The system allows plants to have access to water continuously even when the irrigation system is off (due to power failures, pump failure etc). It also allows for the reuse/recycling of the irrigating water thereby saving water, fertilizers and electricity.” Mogale Maleka and Tumelo Pule: Using hydroponics to enhance food security.
Before entering the space commercially, the team researched the field heavily, seeking to understand current developments in hydroponic technology and the outlook for the market. With increased urbanisation, land access issues, and water security concerns, the pair felt passionate about being in the field and this formed the basis on which AB Farms was built. AB Farms is a small agri-tech business aimed at developing hydroponic farming solutions and providing fresh produce. Venturing into this market segment is a tall order, given the competitiveness of established fresh produce value chains. Originally, the team focused solely on hydroponics farming. In pursuing this, they soon realised that increasing the footprint of the technology would require tailoring planting solutions to local contexts. The firm then added a second stream of work focusing on research and development of hydroponic models for farming in South Africa. AB Farms as a business is split into two: on the one hand, it develops and tests hydroponic models, and on the other hand, it practices hydroponic farming. HARNESSING HYDROPONICS Hydroponics farming is an innovative and high-tech approach to farming without
10 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 9
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
9 NEW YOUNG ENTRANTS Vertical bucket system with the A-frame
the need for soil as a growing medium. Water is circulated among plants in this system and only the water that is either absorbed by plants or evaporates is replaced. The system is more water efficient than traditional irrigation. Without soil in hydroponic farming, soilbased costs, such as tilling, de-weeding and pesticides, are limited. This can result in lower than traditional operating costs and a healthier produce with limited or no pesticides. Hydroponic farming is ideal for growing fruit and vegetables with small root space, such as lettuce, kale, mint, tomato, pepper, cucumber and strawberries. Soon after the firm was started. In January 2017, the state-funded Westonaria Agri-Park in Western Gauteng was addressing issues with hydroponic vertical farming in the park. The park’s managers wished to optimise the existing system for greater efficiency, as the park recurrently dealt with power and water cuts, with substantial negative impact on crop productivity. AB Farms was selected as the ideal candidates to assist and has been working with the Agri-Park since late 2017 to make its systems more efficient. The Agri-Park then became the home of AB Farms, providing the business with some access to financing, as well access to farming land, discounted rent and common cleaning and security staff. Using a business incubation approach, the Agri-Park pools small-scale farmers and provides infrastructure for the farmers to undertake their agricultural activities as well as co-learn from each other. As the result of challenges with the Agri-Park hydroponic system originally installed, the entrepreneurs had to adapt that system to suit the local context, so as to enhance its operability and economic viability. In developed countries, water pumps, for example, run continuously thanks to affordable and reliable electricity. This allows the on-going mixing of nutrients and fertilisers, which is good for the plants. In South Africa, however, power cuts jeopardise the system. Due to such disruptions, plants end up not receiving adequate nutrients and water as the electrical pumps will not be running. This significant impairs crop growth and productivity. Such negative impacts can be mitigated by employing other improvised
solutions, like using generators to drive the pumps, which is costly and drives up operational costs. Hydroponic designs from international suppliers also tend to be high-tech and highly costly, which increases the costs of a business. In the local market, the extent to which these costs can be passed on to consumers is limited. AB Farms is also developing a vertical bucket system that allows the plant to have access to a mineral solution continuously even though the irrigating system may be off due to power shortages, pump failure or any other reason.
players who are unable to meet these requirements. Entering the value chain is hard but necessary for a small business to grow and for the technology to proliferate. Starting small with the little you have, but the will to work hard, exceed and in good time expand, will put the newcomer hydroponics farmer in a position where he or she build up a relationship with a financial institution that acknowledges the return on investment, and so grow the business. Source: From a Flanders Case Study on AB Farms and University of Johannesburg.
The design essentially allows for plants to be irrigated periodically, as opposed to continuously, thus reducing the amount of energy required per kilogram produced. In addition, the design allows the mineral solution to flow through it in such a manner that allows for the natural aeration of the mineral solution. The business is moving away from the fresh market model to established and fixed supply contracts with private clients, large retailers, and other large consumers, such as hotels and restaurants. Such private clients provide the advantage of better payment terms as well as certain and consistent revenue streams. While the firm is making strides by engaging with established packhouses, major retailers are still difficult to reach. Large consumers tend to contract with established and large farmers due to scale and quality requisites, squeezing out smaller
10 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
Vertical hydroponic system.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease which is easily recognized as a white powdery growth on leaves, stems, petioles and floral parts of infected plants, quickly making plants unmarketable or fruit bearing plants less and even totally unproductive. There are several genera involved, including Erysiphe, Leveillula, Microsphaera and Sphaerotheca.
I
t is important to note that the fungus that causes powdery mildew on one plant species generally does not affect another. Because powdery mildews are obligate parasites, they require living plants for completion of their life cycle. Each of these fungi forms a network of hyphae over the leaf or stem surface, from which it penetrates epidermal cells to derive its nutrients via nutrient pegs known as haustoria. Growth may begin as small, discrete spots but can spread to cover the entire upper surface of the leaves. On many plants, the fungal growth becomes felt-like. This happens when ideal conditions produce abundant superficial mycelia bearing many colourless conidia (spores). In some plants, the leaves develop a reddish discolouration where the infection occurred. Severe infections will cause leaf stunting, yellowing and curling. In the greenhouse, powdery mildew fungi have a simple life cycle. Single-celled conidia form in a long chain on short, erect fungal stalks. This creates the “fluffiness” usually associated with powdery mildew. Under favourable environmental conditions, conidia chains are produced and released typically at a rate of one conidium per day or diurnal cycle. Conidia mature and are ready for release in 24 hours. A drop in relative humidity and the heating and drying effect of solar radiation promote spore release. Conidia need a RH of 95% or a near-zero vapour pressure deficit
for more than 3–4 hours to germinate and penetrate the host’s leaf or stem epidermal cells. The mycelium produces haustoria or nutrient pegs, which provide a constant nutrient supply for fungal growth and conidial stalks as it grows over the leaf surface. Within 48 hours of inoculation, mature conidia can be released to infect other leaves or plants. Relative humidity, temperature, light, leaf wetness and air movement (e.g., drafts) all influence the severity and spread of powdery mildew infections. Because of these interrelated environmental factors, use an integrated approach. Excessive and turbulent air movements, such as drafts near open doors, improper spacing of HAF (horizontal airflow) fans, forced air furnaces or improper fan sizing or speed, promote infection and spread. Leaf wetness episodes (irrigating above the plants) promote fungal development. The occurrence and persistence of leaf wetness are affected by leaf-to-air temperature gradients, the degree of leaf radiant energy loss, solar radiation and leaf transpiration. Cultural strategies to manage powdery mildew must be employed such as to avoid drafts by keeping walkway doors closed. Automate the opening and closing of doors if possible. Reduce speed of horizontal airflow fans (HAF) if they have variable-speed motors. Maintain smooth airflow patterns over leaf surfaces. This prevents localized areas of high relative humidity (RH)
and reduces air and leaf temperature fluctuations. By using computer technology, establish reasonable environmental parameters to maintain the desired RH levels through heating and ventilation to provide buoyancy to the air that will allow for efficient purging of excess moisture in the air. Avoid sudden changes in either temperature or RH due to venting. High RH on its own does not necessarily promote powdery mildew. Rely on the radiant heat from both the crop zone and above crop heating lines to maintain a drier, warmer crop environment. It is advisable to establish a higher minimum pipe temperature if using hot water, or apply short pulses of steam into the above-crop heating lines to create a source of radiant heat to maintain a warmer leaf temperature than the surrounding air. Maintaining minimum crop heating is important because during the evening in late summer, the dew point is often reached in the greenhouse as temperatures drop. Closing shading or energy curtains and/or using highpressure sodium lighting during the winter months will help prevent radiant energy loss from leaf surfaces by keeping them warmer. Finally – the greenhouse staff must constantly inspect plants throughout the greenhouses system and alarm management of any disorders of any kind to take immediate action. Source: Omafra CA
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 11
UNDERCOVER FARMING CONFERENCE 2022 OVERVIEW: CLIMATE CHANGE REQUIRES ADAPTIONS BUT OFFERS MULTIPLE OPPORTUNITIES The ever-popular Undercover Farming Expo & Conference was presented on 15 and 16 March 2022 at the CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria. “Reflecting on the past event, our loyal exhibitors expressed their satisfaction with business opportunities, delegates and professional presenters over and above the ample time allowed for networking with experts in the trade. As organiser and director I am perfectly satisfied that we offered the industry at large another successful event,” said Suzanne Oosthuizen, SO. Our Sponsors at the event was the Dube Tradeport Corporation, Santam, and Rijk Zwaan. The focus set for the 2022 event was on the quality of available technology with which greenhouse producers in Southern Africa can run their operations successfully to continue expansion. Global climate change brings about an ever drier climate annually hence the focus is on water conservation but still increasing yield through employing latest technologies. The Undercover Farming Expo & Conference 2022 once more offered a high level of exhibitor occupancy as well as a most interesting speaker portfolio. Undercover Farming management received positive feedback and most exhibitors ordered their floor space for the next event before they left the premises. The presenters held the audience captive with their current in-depth knowledge of not only the industry, but specifically on Southern Africa’s hydroponics industry’s progress during the 2022 Conference. Subjects presented this year were: “Plant Tissue Culture: An alternative method for vegetative propagation of plants at the Dube Tradeport Corporation in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Its role in establishing and maintaining high quality, virusfree
A WORLD-CLASS INDUSTRIAL
& COMMERCIAL PRECINCT
and true-to-type planting stock aimed at improving and supporting the global agricultural industry” - Presented by: Nokuthula Myeza - Dube AgriLab. “The importance of fresh produce markets in South Africa and why this national asset should be kept alive and well” Presented by: Deon van Zyl - GROW Fresh Produce Agents.
DUBE AGRILAB STRATEGICALLY LOCATED ADJACENT TO KING SHAKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AND DUBE CARGO TERMINAL.
5 MILLION PLANTLETS
5 300M2
TISSUE CULTURE LAB
WWW.DUBETRADEPORT.CO.ZA
12 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
DUBE AGRILAB HAS THE CAPACITY TO PRODUCE UP TO 5 MILLION PLANTLETS A YEAR.
ULTRA-MODERN 5 300M2 PLANT TISSUE CULTURE LABORATORY.
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS “Crop Insurance Session & Lightning Insurance” Presented by: Emil Pretorius - Santam
“Vegetable Seed Development” - Presented by: Gerhard Smit - Rijk Zwaan South Africa
“Biological Pest & Disease Management” Presented by: Nico Uys - Agro Organics
“Over the Rainbow - A strategic context between South Africa's political, economic and social outlook”
“The absence of information technology in Fresh Produce production” - Presented by: Susan Tredoux - IPlan
- Presented by Chris Hart - Impact Investment Group
“Benefits of farming under Agricultural Shade Net” - Presented by: Niconette du Toit - PlusNet
These interesting but important messages carries much weight for the undercover farming
"Palygrow, the best of both worlds" - Presented by: Dewald Haasbroek - MetteQ
(greenhouse, poly-tunnels, shade net structures and Aquaponics) producers to be diligent in their approach to the future of their operations and employ new technologies and strategies to progress the industry. The event date for the
“Innovations in the field of Grafting” - Presented by Johan van Eeden - Hishtil
2023 Pretoria conference will be set for March in due course and all roleplayers, farmers and input providers in the industry will be notified in good time. The Undercover Farming Expo 2022 was yet another successful event due to the participation of industry leaders! More information: Suzanne Oosthuizen, suzanne@ axxess.co.za, Cell: 082 832 1604 Suzanne Oosthuizen, Managing Director; Undercover Farming.
THE LATEST IN INNOVATIVE FARMING TECHNOLOGY Located within the heart of Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone, Dube AgriLab is the only commercial tissue culture lab in KwaZulu-Natal, and has the capacity to produce up to 5 million plantlets a year. Operated by Dube TradePort Corporation, Dube AgriLab (a division of Dube AgriZone) is a highly sophisticated, ultra-modern 5 300m2 plant tissue culture laboratory, hardening facility and dispatch area. As a purpose-built micro-propagation facility resourced with cutting edge farming technology, Dube AgriLab propagates under sterile conditions so as to supply high-quality, disease-free, true-to-type young plants through tissue culture. With the expertise to develop and refine protocols in-house, and the capacity to produce most plant varieties, Dube AgriLab is set to service the plant propagation needs of Dube AgriZone, as well as the needs of the KwaZulu-Natal farming community. Strategically located adjacent to King Shaka International Airport and Dube Cargo Terminal, Dube AgriLab is ideally positioned to service national and international farmers and professional growers. Driven by Dube TradePort’s commitment to sustainability, Dube AgriLab utilises innovative green technology such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems in order to reduce their environmental impact whilst simultaneously increasing quality and service excellence.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: NOKUTHULA MYEZA E. AGRILAB@DUBETRADEPORT.CO.ZA T. +27 32 814 0000
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 13
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
Blueberry growers may avoid high nitrate levels (associated with nitric acid) by choosing sulphuric acid. Alkalinity in water plays a major role in growing blueberries.
Water Management in the Greenhouse: How to manage alkalinity The quality of water fed to a greenhouse system is of much importance. We are fed daily by media on the correct substances to eat for healthy living. The greenhouse manager should be as cautious on the water quality before mixes for plant growth are added.
W
hen feeding water is chemically analysed, the total alkalinity should also be measured. Acid-loving crops such as blueberries are grown at pH levels between 4.5 and 5.0 (total alkalinity; 0.0 - 0.2 meq l-1). Normal greenhouse crops are grown at pH levels between 5.3 and 6.3 with the optimum pH at about 5.8. In order to reach the desired pH level in a nutrient solution, the total alkalinity of the feeding water need to be at the correct level. Normal greenhouse crops are grown at alkalinity levels between 0.2 and 1.0 meq L-1, depending on the crop and the production system.
Experience will help growers to choose the correct total alkalinity for their feeding water and production methods in order to reach optimum pH-levels; however, the following background may help: Pre-setting of alkalinity Crop: A relatively low total alkalinity is needed for acid-loving crops such as disas, azalias and blueberries (0.0 – 0.2 meq L-1). Levels between 0.2 up to 1.0 meq L-1 can be chosen for normal greenhouse crops, depending on growth conditions. Substrate: Since organic substrates release bicarbonate during decomposition, an increased root zone alkalinity (pH) can be expected as the substrate decomposes over time (Benoit, 2003b). Thus, a relatively low total alkalinity can be chosen for nutrient solutions on organic substrates (acidloving crops ±0.0; normal crops ±0.4 meq L-1). Where inert substrates are used (sand, gravel or rockwool), a higher total alkalinity may be chosen (acid-loving crops ±0.2 meq L-1 and normal crops ± 0.8 meq L-1).
14 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
Ammonium in the nutrient solution: Should your plan be to use a nutrient solution with a high ammonium level (>1.0 meq L-1) on normal greenhouse crops, then the present alkalinity may be lifted to counteract the expected acidifying effect of ammonium in the root zone. Fertilizers: Some water-soluble fertilizers such as mono potassium phosphate (MKP) and certain potassium sulphate products may have acidifying effects. When these fertilizers are added to water with a low total alkalinity, the pH will drop. To counteract the expected drop in pH, the total alkalinity of the feeding water can be set a bit higher. Alkalinity too high or too low Most soils are well-buffered, which means that their pH values do not change easily. This is not the case for soil-less conditions. Special precautions are needed to control the pH and consequently the chemical and physical form and availability of nutrients in a solution. Some nutrients precipitate as
15
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
insoluble salts in high pH solutions and these particles may block drippers. Compared to pH values of soil, the optimum pH of hydroponic solutions may seem to be relatively low. Having a look at the dissociation pattern of phosphate in solution, the optimum pH for phosphate absorption should be slightly acidic. Since some micronutrients such as Fe and Zn precipitate at high pH levels, forming insoluble salts, their absorption is also restricted at high pH levels. At pH values lower than 5, problems may arise on crops that are sensitive to Ca deficiencies (in peppers and tomatoes). This is due to high H+ concentrations that may suppress the absorption of Ca2+ and other cations. A high ammonium (NH4 +) level will aggravate this problem since it may also suppress the uptake of other cations (Langenhoven, 2004). Therefore, most soilless crops are grown in solutions with pH values ranging from 5.3 to 6.3. The acid-loving blueberry is grown at pH 4.5 to 5.0 and is also adapted to grow at relatively high NH4 + levels. Disas also grow well at high NH4 + levels and should be considered as an acid-loving crop (Pienaar, 2005). Alkalinity buffer The EC of pure rainwater is 0.0 mS cm-1 with a pH of 7. Adding a drop of acid to this water may decrease the pH substantially. Should a drop of acid be added to the same volume of high EC-water with a pH of 7.0, the pH will decrease much less. To understand this, it must be remembered that the H+:OH- ratio is 1:1 at pH 7. For argument’s sake, say that the ratio H+:OH- in distilled water is 10:10 and 1000:1000 in high EC water at pH7. Then, by adding a drop of acid with 90 H+ ions to rain water, the H+:OHratio will change from 10:10 to 100:10 and the pH will drop to 6.0 (10 times more acidic). Adding the same drop of acid (90 H+) to high EC water (wellbuffered), the H+:OH- ratio will change from 1000:1000 to 1090:1000, causing only a small increase in acidity and only a slightly lower pH. Distilled water and rainwater are examples of water with a neutral pH and a zero total alkalinity. The total alkalinity of water from mountainous high rainfall areas may be zero or slightly acidic (corrosive) due to organic acids. Since metal and asbestos cement water pipes deteriorate when exposed
to corrosive water, municipalities are forced to increase the alkalinity of their acidic water sources. Due to the extremely low solubility of lime, as shown in Table 15 (CaCO3 = 0.014 g L-1), it can be used to remove acidity and add some alkalinity to corrosive water without the danger of an overdosage.
application should not exceed 0.8 meq L-1. Feeding water with a high total alkalinity, with an acid need of more than 0.8 meq L-1, should thus be treated in an open container, allowing the gas to escape before fertilizers can be injected.
This implies that distilled water can be soaked in lime and that a maximum of only 0.014 g L-1 will dissolve (14 mg L-1 /50 =0.28 meq L-1) lifting the alkalinity from zero to 0.28 meq L-1.
By using nitric acid (HNO3), or phosphoric acid (H3PO4) or sulphuric acid (H2SO4) as H+ sources, the bicarbonate (HCO3 -) in the feeding water can be replaced with NO3 -, H2PO4 - or SO4 = respectively. Since most crops need high levels of nitrate, nitric acid is generally used to treat the feeding water for normal greenhouse crops.
Concrete irrigation canals are used to feed slightly acidic water from the Clan William dam to the Vredendal irrigation area. Contact between the water and the alkaline cement adds alkalinity to the water, as it flows to grower’s further down-stream. This increase in alkalinity is more noticeable during winter months when the need for irrigation water is small, resulting in a slower water flow, allowing a longer period of contact between the water and the concrete canal. The same effect may be noticed where water is conducted in asbestoscement pipes. Decrease alkalinity Release of carbon dioxide (CO2): With the addition of acid to bicarbonate (representing total alkalinity), the end products are water and carbon dioxide (CO2), as seen in the following equation: H+ + HCO3 - ↔ H2O + CO2↕ This reaction is suppressed when the release of CO2 is prevented, and the pH will then not be lowered sufficiently. This happens where >0.8 meq L-1 of an acid is applied to the water under pressure. Using an acid application machine (injecting acid into a pipe with flowing water or nutrient solution under pressure) the maximum
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 15
Choosing an acid
However, some growers prefer to apply phosphate with phosphoric acid. Blueberry growers may avoid high nitrate levels (associated with nitric acid) by choosing sulphuric acid. Due to the formation of insoluble phosphates and sulphates at high pH levels (blocking drippers), phosphoric acid and sulphuric acid should not be applied to water with a total alkalinity of >1.9 meq L-1. Nitric acid should then be used to lower the total alkalinity to <1.9 meq L-1 before phosphoric or sulphuric acids may be applied. Source: Nutrient Solution Management By: Dr NJJ Combrink , Keeping alkalinity at the correct level ensures good looking, healthy crops!
How poor fruit set influences a good harvest With much labour, inputs and faith that your investment will pay off at harvest, poor fruit set could cause large losses. In this editorial poor fruit set is explained to convey knowledge on how to ensure this phenomenon is combatted.
Y
ield is made up of two factors – fruit size and fruit number. Fruit size is affected by the genetic capacity of the variety, the overall fruit load, management and climatic conditions. Most growers assess relative fruit size optically during the life of the crop and pay particular attention to the fruit size at the end of the crop cycle. Very often a grower will use fruit size as a critical selection factor and will dismiss a variety as having fruit that is too small (on observation only) without really paying any attention to the overall yield. What is probably more valuable to assess is fruit number, or fruit load. All things being equal, this is usually a reaction of the ability of the variety to set fruit, i.e. to turn flowers into fruit. This is the one single factor that sets two varieties apart in their ability to yield well, particularly under difficult conditions.
Fruit Set and Pollination Development of large, smooth fruit requires successful completion of the sexual process within the tomato flower. Successful transfer of viable pollen from the anthers (male flower parts) to the stigma (part of the female organs) and subsequent fertilization of the ovules and development of the fruit are affected by the plant’s environment and by inherited characteristics of the flower parts. A series of processes is involved: • Pollen must be produced in the anthers. • The pollen must be viable. • Pollen must be transferred to the stigma. • A sufficient quantity of pollen must be transferred. • The pollen must germinate rapidly and completely. • The stigma must be receptive. • The pollen tubes must grow through the style rapidly. • Fertilization must take place.
16 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
• The ovary must be retained. • The ovary must enlarge. Failure of any of these processes prevents normal fruit development. The symptoms of unsuccessful pollination are “dry set” or rough fruit and could be due to adverse environmental conditions such as temperature, light, humidity, inadequate pollen transfer or poor nutrition. An assessed planting of a widely planted variety in the Lowveld, reiterated the importance of thorough and uniform fruit set. The seedlings were transplanted in early January, and the third truss was showing yellow flowers at the time of assessment. What was immediately obvious was that trusses one and two had suffered from poor set. On each truss only two or three flowers had set fruit. The rest had dropped off, or would set so far behind the primary fruit as to be too small to be marketable. This meant that at least three flowers
17
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
per truss had failed to set. January and February are very hot months in the Lowveld, and despite the best efforts of a very good grower the conditions were too extreme for this variety to set fruit properly. A similar trend was also seen in early summer at the same farm, so one can easily conclude that this particular variety, while good in other ways, has a problem with fruit set in the heat. By comparison the experimental varieties under evaluation showed not only complete set, but
also uniform set. On each truss five to six fruit had set more or less at the same time, and conspicuously on the flowering truss, all the flowers were open at the same time. Uniform flowering means pollination at the same time, leading to even fruit size and also ripening and harvesting at the same time. These varieties, Logure RZ and Valiant RZ, originate from a breeding programme known for good heat set and which has already delivered a top performing variety such as Petula RZ. Petula RZ is recognized as having a very good ability to set fruit well and uniformly in the heat. This is an easy observation to make in the field, and intuitively one knows that good fruit set is better, but what is this characteristic really worth to the grower? For example, a grower has a plant density of 25 000 plants per ha, under nets. If one assume an average fruit size of 140g and we give the variety the benefit of the doubt by considering that only the first two trusses are problematic, i.e. we assume that the later trusses set 100 per cent, then one can calculate the lost value per fruit, and per ha for different market prices. For his high quality fruit the grower in question would probably expect
to aver-age a gross return of around R3.50 per kg for his total crop, over a total planting of about 5ha. Losing two flowers on just the first two trusses due to poor fruit set in the heat could cost this grower a whopping R250 000! To make this situation even more painful, this loss is from the bottom line, as all the planting, establishment and production costs still have to be paid. Growers often use yield as the most important determining factor when comparing varieties. Of course the tomatoes must also be of high quality and thus marketable, the disease resistance must be good, and so on. But really what makes one variety different from another when it comes to yield advantage? Absolute set, where either a fruit sets or the flower drops, is not the only important factor – equally important is the ability to set fruit on a truss at more or less the same time. When selecting a variety, pay attention to the uniformity of flowering, the uniformity of fruit set and the ability to set fruit under a range of climatic conditions. This one point could make a huge difference to the producers’ bottom line! The picture of the strawberries shows irregular set where one or two fruit set very early compared to the rest. These fruit will always dominate, and there will be a big discrepancy in both fruit size and time of harvest that will have an impact on the producer’s revenue. By: F Hart
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 17
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
Young FPEF graduates in a greenhouse.
The new voices of Agriculture: Young, Diverse, Innovative Transformation is a complex phenomenon linked with many different interpretations. There are several key strategies to facilitate transformation and inclusion in any given industry. Skills development is one of the many ways the South African agricultural industry has chosen to embrace.
A
long the value chain, the South African government has developed programmes to welcome graduates in the agricultural industry. Equally, the private sector has implemented its programmes such as the FPEF Graduate Placement Programme. Implementation of transformation programmes demands prioritisation and dedicated personnel who are equally passionate about the subject matter. We had the opportunity to discuss transformation and graduate placement with the FPEF Transformation manager, Johannes Brand. Racial unity has been a personal passion since his days in Zimbabwe. He elaborated that he would like to see South Africa overcoming its bitter history of apartheid and creating a healthy integrated society.
The FPEF Graduate Placement Programme specifically aims to place high-calibre, black, tertiary graduates in junior commercial, logistics and technical roles in South African fruit export companies. According to Johannes, the programme focuses on the second part of the value chain, which is in line with the FPEF’s mandate as their members are primarily fresh produce exporters and logistic companies. However, it is important to note that different organisations have internships that specifically serve their members. Johannes encouraged graduates to look for opportunities within the industry they wish to go into. For example, during his university days, he identified that the fresh produce export industry was growing, and thereafter he targeted fresh produce export companies when
18 Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2
he was applying for a bursary. The FPEF Graduate Placement Programme hit a landmark last year (2021), with the appointment of 14 graduates in FPEF member companies, bringing the total to 48 since the programme launched in 2016. One of the 2021 FPEF interns, Zama Sangweni, firmly believes that an internship is an amazing opportunity for young people to get their foot into the industry. She elaborated further by saying: “The emergence of an initiative like the FPEF internship has changed my life for the better and has given me a platform to showcase my skills. The unemployment rate is high in this country and seeing industry stakeholders do something about
19
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
it is remarkable”. One of the advantages of this programme is fair payment. Zama applauded the FPEF organisation for addressing the elephant in the room by encouraging member companies to pay graduates market related salaries. In addition to the graduate placement programme, the FPEF hosts the FPEF Annual Transformation Seminar, to encourage business leaders to engage in transformation discussions. She said: “Business leaders are the decision-makers who have the power to transform the businesses they lead. It is more effective than a bottomup approach to rather encourage shareholders and executives to lead transformation”. The structure of internships differs at each company based on their needs and support structures. At BerryWorld South Africa, Zama had the opportunity to spend three months in four different departments within the company. These included pre-harvest, sales and compliance, logistics and supply chain, and finally the post-harvest department. According to Zama, this internship format gave her an overview of the functions of the entire business. When we asked Zama, who is currently a marketing assistant at BerryWorld, South Africa, which agricultural sector drew her interest the most, she commented that her internship exposed her to different company departments, and therefore she was able to identify her strength in agricultural marketing and compliance.
strategically portray the brand in such a way that promotes our company values. Compliance extends my interest because I work with the sustainability part of the business and this ensures that our business is food safe, ethical and is adding unmeasurable and intangible value to the wider world.” Although the agricultural industry is embracing young people and growing their own timber, it would be naïve to think that the sequence is linear, black graduate internship opportunity. The truth of the matter is that graduates must bring something to the table. According to Johannes, although having an agriculture degree is not mandatory, what distinguish a candidate from the next one are attitude, character and showcasing your key strengths. He added that the First-Year working will be a learning curve as you gain your footing and get an understanding of your industry and the tasks given to you.
and consistent and energetic work ethic. Further Zama elaborated and said: “If I am not knowledgeable on the subject matter, I am curious enough to find out about it”. “To conclude, I would like to encourage you to identify the sector you wish to be part of, as it is no longer enough to just say, “I want to be in agriculture”. Break it down to commodity (for example citrus or blueberries) and thereafter learn about opportunities within the specific organisation or company that represents that commodity,” said Zama. Visit recruiting agencies and companies’ websites regularly and identify skills you should be developing. Both Johannes and Zama emphasised the importance of networking and job shadowing as tools to understand the industry better and create opportunities for yourself. Compiled by: Makhosazana Shantelle Ngwenya – AgriJob Blog Coordinator
Additionally, Zama stated that what set her apart is her confidence, curiosity Technical experience adds value to young graduates who wish to fulfil their dreams in agriculture.
She further elaborated: “Marketing has enabled me to express my creative and innovative edge and how to
Subscribe now! Email the details as outlined here to subscribe for your bi-monthly copy of Undercover Farming! Send this information to magazine@axxess.co.za with your subscription deposit proof of payment. For more information contact Marion Oosthuizen (+27) (0) 71 693 9300 or e-mail management@axxess. co.za
Electronic subscription for 6 bi-monthly issues is R 350.00 (ZAR) annually
NAME: SURNAME: ADDRESS: CODE: CONTACT NUMBER:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
Account Name: Nufarmer Pty Ltd t/a Undercover Farming Bank: First National Bank, Kolonnade Branch Code: 25 10 37 Account No: 62007699806
Undercover farming I March/April 2022 I Volume 19 No 2 19
SAVE THE DATE
UNDERCOVER FARMING
CONFERENCE & EXPO 19 - 20 OCTOBER 2022
WESTERN CAPE
VENUE PUBLISHED IN DUE COURSE!
