Undercover
farming
ucf
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021
I VOLUME 18 NO 6 I I R45.00 per issue
MELONS IN A GREENHOUSE
AGRICULTURAL e-TRADE
COTTON IN GREENHOUSES?
GREENHOUSE MIXING TANKS
Melons in a greenhouse _ the basic facts Page 4
Agricultural e-Trade offers a key enabler for Africa Page 9
Cotton Production in Greenhouses investigated Page 13
Dissolving macro- and micronutrients Page 17
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.
SUBSCRIBE
ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION Subscribe online now! E-mail your deposit and address details to: magazine@axxess.co.za More information from Marion Oosthuizen: 071 639 9300
Contents 4 6
Melons in a greenhouse – the basic facts Rijk Zwaan South Africa – setting the pace in the vegetable seed arena
8 A Gap Year in Agriculture? 9 Agricultural e-Trade offers a key enabler for Africa 10 BAYER launches new ‘Vegetables by Bayer’ Brand
FRONT PAGE: Melon production in a greenhouse gains popularity. Read pp 4-5.
INSIDE ...
Platform
13 Dutch Cotton from Greenhouses? Cotton Production in Greenhouses investigated
14
SA Legislation Missing an All-inclusive Cannabis industry Act?
16
Compliance blitz on the cards for the agrochemicals sector
17
Greenhouse Mixing Tanks: Dissolving macro- and micronutrients
19 Undercover Farming Western Cape 2021: Conference Most Complimented
6
13
Obtain your Undercover Farming magazine digitally! Subscription details on p19
W
18
e have arrived at the time of the year where families get together and enjoy a well-deserved holiday. In agriculture, especially greenhouse production this is not easy. Many years ago I asked a fresh produce greenhouse farmer; “What is the single most important change you made since you changed from open land farming to greenhouse production?” “Simple,” he answered; “I used to take my caravan and my family to the seaside on vacation during the December holidays, now I send them!” Sounds See subscription form on page 16 radical, but that is what greenhouse farming takes; commitment. There are quite a few elements VISIT US AT • BESOEK ONS BY in undercover farming that needs almost 24/7 surveillance. Too often one observe a greenhouse frame with tatters of plastic covering fluttering in the wind – a silent portrayal of somebody that just did not have the will or management skills to optimize production in his greenhouse. What a The Scriptures pity. On the other side of the coin I met people who started with used materials of a greenhouse and with diligence and hard work, expanded his production with a number of newly bought greenhouses. The difference is in the attitude of the person. We meet different people daily and at different levels of society. It is heartwarming when we notice somebody with a hardworking nature achieve his dream goals. There are so many possibilities for someone who wants to start in greenhouse farming. The country is looking hard at local production, locally made and ‘Proudly South African’ merchandise. Therefore, if a person wants to enter the food production industry, “For to us a child is born, now is the time! Notwithstanding headlines of Rand vs Dollar exchange, adverse weather, political to us a son is given; and the differences etc.; small start-ups in food production have a vast market through informal traders. government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name There are other ways to market produce as well and it is for the individual to seek a market, shall be called Wonderful produce sustainable to the market and learn those around you. At Undercover Farming we are Counsellor, Mighty God, so proud to have presented another excellent Western Cape Conference in early November. Everlasting Father, Prince of Thank you to all the participants and most of all, to those who took the trouble to give positive Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6 feedback to Suzanne. She works hard to organize these Conferences and truly deserve the feedback and thanks from all. May this Season We wish all our friends, business associates, be a wonderful one for each and everyone in the undercover farming correspondents, readers a most Blessed Christmas Season! industry!
Thank you to all our advertisers for your support during trying times – may 2022 bring showers of hope and progress to your companies!
Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 3
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
MELONS IN A GREENHOUSE –
the basic facts
Looking at the global hydroponics produce trends, cultivation of melons in soilless culture is a fairly new trend that is showing promising results in many parts of the world. Though you might think that the size of melons would make them hard to grow hydroponically, they grow quite well in coir substrate in greenhouses and poly houses.
M
ost of the melon growers focus on growing two high quality melons per plant. Melons in hot conditions can be grown up to 4 cycles per year, as it takes around 80 days from planting to harvest. Melons are a crop that requires a very low moisture level in the final phase, just before harvest. It’s correct for all types of conditions but even more critical in tropical weather. The growers that grow melon in grow bags experience better root system, zero root diseases, less physiological disorders, more homogeneous fruit size and darker flesh colour.
Melons have to be trellised well and supported to optimise quality and appearance.
The biggest concern with growing melons hydroponically is making sure that they have a controllable growing medium, adequate light and good trellising support for their increasing weight. With the proper irrigation, lighting and maintenance of the nutrient solution levels, it helps to maximize melon production in a short period of time.
4 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
Production of melon in soil versus in a grow medium, has shown a yield of 9.2 Kg/Sq m compared to in-soil production of 4 Kg/Sq m with the same melon variety. Melon seedlings should be provided by your seedling grower. This gives you as producer the peace of mind that your success in growing melons – especially as a new grower – started on the right foot. With the correct grow mix, growers succeed to grow two or three melons per plant (comparing to soil) with excellent brix levels of 15 and higher. Ideal greenhouse temperatures are between 18°C and 23°C. They should be regularly ventilated to keep air fresh and disease free. For the best yields, average root temperatures for your melons should be kept around 21°C or higher, so it helps to put the grow bags into the greenhouse well ahead of planting time, in order to heat up prior to receiving the seedlings. The pH of the grow mixture should be from 6.0 to 6.5 and contain rich organic matter. Compost or manure is best for this. Frost is an ever-present danger to production of melon, especially at either extreme of the growing season. Melons outdoors are a high-risk proposition, but they are ideal for greenhouse conditions. The melon vines will need some support once they get a bit bigger. Prepare for this early by installing trellising wires for
5
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
them to climb and cling to, and rope with anchor stuck into the grow mix, a few centimetres from the root ball. Tie the strongest shoot to the support once it is long enough. Pinch the side shoots to remove them and the plant will grow upwards – this is to train the plant in the right fashion. Once the main stem reaches the full height you want it to grow, pinch off the end of it to trigger melon production. Limit the number of melons per vine to two or three. This will result in bigger melons, rather than a larger number of stunted, small ones. Irrigating your melon plants is also a big factor. Water should penetrate into the deep roots, but without saturating or swamping them. Too much water will have the melons split open. Aim for a grow medium that is moist, but not wet. A drip or similar watering system is ideal but must be regulated to not overwater. Liquid tomato fertiliser, applied once per week once fruit has started to appear, will keep your melon plant fed and happy. Remember to scale down on irrigation once fruit are at the right size. In order to get those fruits in the first place, the flowers must be pollenated. Open doors will allow bees to enter and do this job for you, or you can do so yourself. With a small, soft brush, go from flower to flower, brushing the delicate internal structures of the flowers, one after the other, until you have made the rounds to each of them at least once. A few days later, the female flowers will have tiny fruits beginning to form on them. The ones that don’t are likely male flowers, and these should be removed. The growing melons will require regular inspection for support on the trellising system. There are small net ‘hammocks’ available but care must be taken when fitting these to support the melons and not to disturb it calyxes. Removing any leaves that block the light from the fruit is important too. Light on the fruit will result in a sweeter melon that ripens sooner. During the melon growing stages, above average rising temperatures can be an issue. To prevent damage on very hot days, increase humidity in the greenhouse to lower the temperature. A mist watering system is recommended. Melons ripen in about three weeks’ time. The producer can therefore structure his growing and marketing to suit him best. When seedlings of same age were planted, raised under the same
Trellised melon plants in a greenhouse. Note the beehives.
circumstances, treated with water and in demand on the market. Melon fertilizer equally, it should offer a very production is a financially viable simultaneous harvest. proposition for a greenhouse farmer with his finger on the pulse of his To tell when a melon is ready for JS (pictures: Riococo) business. harvesting, watch for the time when a melon stops getting bigger. If you tap it, it Worldwide Expertise for Food & Flowers should sound a dull thud. Beginners might want to open one to test its progress and then compare it to the state of others around it. If you wait too long, and the vine separates from the melon, this is a sign that it is too late – the melon will More information? be rotten inside. Yulandi Holtzhausen Herbert Stolker Consultant Cape Town region Consultant KZN, Gauteng, Mpumalanga The serious T +27 (0) 82 896 2156 and Limpopo melon producer E y.holtzhausen@delphy.nl T +27 (0) 72 545 5757 E h.stolker@delphy.nl will soon learn the little www.delphy.nl intricacies of production management on melons. It is a popular fruit and always
Specialists in Horticulture
Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 5
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
RIJK ZWAAN SOUTH AFRICA – setting the pace in the vegetable seed arena
R
ijk Zwaan South Africa is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rijk Zwaan, an international vegetable breeding company based in The Netherlands. Rijk Zwaan is a family owned company who are currently amongst the top five vegetable seed companies in the world.
Smit; Commercial Manager, Rijk Zwaan South Africa added.
Rijk Zwaan has been active in South Africa through distributor network for more than 20 years and has become the market leader in cucumber and leafy salad crops. Rijk Zwaan also has a strong position in several other crops in South Africa, such as melons, sweet pepper, tomato and baby spinach.
Cooperating in the current dynamic market Rijk Zwaan is committed to supporting growers and partners in their efforts to produce, distribute and/or process fruit and vegetables. “Based on the very latest market insights, we aim to help the vegetable food chain to adapt to market changes by providing customised, relevant and applicable advice and solutions. Our teams are doing their utmost to keep the day-to-day activities running smoothly; keeping up solid communications with our business partners”, Smit said.
Since 1 July 2015, Rijk Zwaan South Africa operates as a subsidiary of Rijk Zwaan International. “Our employees are experienced, motivated and include sales representatives in all the important growing areas where they expose their serious capacity for product development. By developing products and by sharing knowledge and experience about cultivation as well as marketing, our ambition is to help the South African vegetable production sector to reach the next level,” Gerhard
Variety Selection Rijk Zwaan offers a wide range of high-quality vegetable varieties which are selected, and tested thoroughly to ensure their suitability for growing in South Africa. In addition to seeds, trustworthy information is disseminated about all varieties and expert advice from the expert crop specialists. This guarantees the grower peace of mind to start to a successful growing season.
Rijk Zwaan in South Africa
6 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
Rijk Zwaan International Rijk Zwaan is a people’s company. With around 3,500 employees in over 30 different countries it is devoted to develop products and services with added value for its partners. “Our motivated colleagues and the continuous investments we make in research and development result in a truly healthy organisation. In conjunction with our partners, we endeavour to actively promote and stimulate vegetable consumption and contribute to its sustainable supply, “Gerhard Smit concluded. For more information, contact the Rijk Zwaan team today: Telephone:+27 61 120 3082 / 116 9690 / 116 956 Email: info@rijkzwaan.co.za
n lo me
er mb cu cu
r hl Ko ab i
er
pp
Pe
Find your variety
ot ro
r
we
o ifl
et
Be
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 September/October 2021 I Volume 18 No 5 7 Email: info@rijkzwaan.co.za | www.rijkzwaan.co.za
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
A GAP YEAR IN AGRICULTURE? With the partnership between Peritum Agri Institute and Reitz Landbou Akademie this has become a reality.
A
fter two years of almost constant lockdown and uncertainty, the Agri gap year (first for South Africa) offers prospective students the freedom of an agricultural setting and the opportunity to build a solid foundation for the future. The Agri gap year offers a solution to prospective students with an interest in agriculture to combine holistic preparation for adulthood and the world of work with a year of fun. While still following structured learning programs in agricultural management and gaining valuable exposure to various components of agriculture. The program is an ideal opportunity for prospective students to take a step back and gain perspective after a challenging and demanding school career. It also offers prospective students the opportunity to undertake a journey of self-discovery and growth and to gain valuable experience in the agricultural sector. Furthermore, it also offers prospective
students the adventure of a lifetime whilst equipping them for the future. The exposure to agriculture is divided into four components: practical demonstrations, short learning modules, weekly farming rotations, and best practice farm visits. It also includes a shearing course, yearly vaccination programs, production models, stud inspection, soil profile analysis, water analysis, auctions, and carcass analysis. Rijk Zwaan South Africa is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rijk Zwaan, an international vegetable breeding company based in The Netherlands and the preferred vegetable seed supplier to Reitz Landbou Akademie. Students have access to the assistance of highly qualified Rijk Zwaan Technical advisors, whilst learning the skills of growing vegetables successfully. Students will rotate every week and look after the seven different departments of the Reitz Landbou Akademie farming operation. A visit to Sernick, where
8 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
students will see the total meat value chain, is also included in the program. The program will be based in Reitz, a warm rural community in the beautiful North Eastern Free State. Reitz has a rich farming heritage and a strong agricultural economy. The Lentehof hostel at Reitz High School will provide lodging to students during the year. Students will be in double rooms and three nutritious meals will be provided daily. The Agri-Gap year is made possible by a partnership between Peritum Agri Institute and Reitz Landbou Akademie. Partners from the RLA include Grain SA, Standard Bank, John Deere, Sernick Group and VKB.
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
One of the many new ways of doing business that emerged during the Covid-19 lockdown was agricultural e-commerce, or online trading of agricultural commodities, fresh produce and even livestock.
Agricultural e-Trade offers a key enabler for Africa
L
ike most technological disruptors, this form of trade provides many benefits to buyers and sellers alike, but is it here to stay or will we return to business as usual when the social-distancing concerns brought about by the pandemic subside? Traditional agricultural value chains involve multiple intermediaries between farmers and consumers. Typically, farmers sell their produce at the farm gate to middlemen. Produce then passes through multiple intermediaries – each of which adds margins – before reaching the end customer. As a result, farmers receive only a small proportion of the price paid by the end consumer, who ultimately pays a higher price because of the margins added throughout the value chain. The simple business model of agricultural e-commerce has many advantages Agricultural e-commerce provides a simplified approach to trading, where buyer and seller are directly linked, streamlining the agricultural value chain and reducing inefficiencies in the distribution of farm produce. E-commerce platforms also offer several transport options, such as Farmgate, where the buyer pays; direct, where the seller pays; and consolidated, in which case both parties pay. These options mean that farmers can reduce their transport costs and increase profit margins. This is especially relevant with
the recent fuel price increase, which is impacting all farmers – who recently lobbied government for subsidies. Emerging livestock farmers are especially battling, as their margins are usually lower. Advantages for sellers include improved cash flow, as producers are reimbursed within a few days instead of a matter of weeks or months; easier buyer access and management; the power associated with digital marketing and branding; and the reliability and insurance provided by a recognised ‘fintech’ platform. Specific benefits to buyers include lower prices and a transparent price discovery mechanism; reduced sourcing and logistics costs; increased product choice; and a streamlined procurement process. Importantly, this new model could also be instrumental in transforming the agricultural sector by eliminating or reducing barriers to entry, thus providing opportunities for semicommercial farmers. Allowing new entrants to bypass intermediaries leads to increased efficiency of the supply chain and generates fairer incomes and a transaction history for farmers. In fact, this sector of the market is already using agricultural e-commerce platforms, particularly online livestock auctions. Disadvantages can be easily overcome Agricultural e-commerce is considered a relatively low-risk, low-cost manner of accessing potential new markets, with quality assurance considered the highest
inherent risk. However, some platforms have partnered with recognised food inspectors to verify the quality of produce on their site, and others include a quality dispute and mediation function. Any potential issues could also be solved if buyers visit the producer. A successful agricultural e-commerce eco-system requires certain enablers. The most obvious requirement is a reliable agri e-commerce platform, of which there are several in South Africa. Green consumerism is on the rise across all industries and the calls for sustainability and traceability within agriculture have never been stronger – e-trading can address this with a lower carbon footprint, less wastage and fresher and therefore healthier produce. Across sub-Saharan Africa, consumers spend about 50% of their disposable income on food. This is what consumers in the US were spending 150 years ago, compared to about 10% today. At the heart of the problem is an inefficient supply chain. Agricultural e-commerce is at an emerging stage of development on the African continent, but there is no doubt about the enormous commercial opportunity and potential social impact it could bring as it drives growth in the agricultural sector and improves the livelihoods and inclusion of all farmers.
By: Cobus de Bruyn, Nedbank Agriculture
Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 9
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
BAYER LAUNCHES NEW
‘Vegetables by Bayer’ BRAND PLATFORM
V
egetables by Bayer is taking a new direction as the buying power is shifting from grower through the value chain to the consumer. They strongly believe to evolve beyond seed to become a new kind of power – a growth partner! Branding plays a very important role and their differentiator will not only be their portfolio but the differentiation will also come through new business models and branding. Our future begins with purpose…. ‘Purpose driven leadership that can bring together the needs of humanity and that of growers’. Inci Dannenberg, president of Global Vegetable Seeds at Bayer says they believe that partnerships will make it real. The success of our customers means the world to us because their success means so much to the world. To partner with growers and the industry not only growing healthy businesses but growing healthy and wellnourished people.
“Our purpose will be driven by Partnership, Innovation, Performance and Sustainability. The way we see this comes to life is from 3 separate corporate brands… “It is with the same passion the South African team embraces business and ensure growth for a sustainable future. We pride ourselves with whom we partner and live the corporate image of “Food for all, Hunger for none,” Dannenberg reiterated. Bayer is a Life Science company with a more than 150-year history and core competencies in the areas of health care and agriculture. With our innovative products, we are contributing to finding solutions to some of the major challenges of our time. Bayer unveiled the “Vegetables by Bayer” brand platform on 26 August, uniting two trusted brands, Seminis and De Ruiter, under one shared purpose with a new brand identity, positioning and global website. (vegetables.bayer. com).
10 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
With more than 20 different crops and thousands of innovative vegetable seed varieties, Seminis and De Ruiter have long provided cutting-edge solutions for customers in diverse open-field and protected environments. Now, they joined forces as part of “Vegetables by Bayer” with refreshed branding and an even deeper commitment to delivering value at every step – to growers, partners, consumers, and the planet. “By bringing together world-class experts and resources from across Bayer, the new ‘Vegetables by Bayer’ umbrella enables our Seminis and De Ruiter brands to provide value to our customers and partners in new and exciting ways,” Dannenberg said. That value is reflected across four core pillars: partnership, innovation, performance, and sustainability. Partnership: Beyond the farm,
12
/ŶǀŝĐƚƵƐ
Invictus, the latest development has intermediate resistance to CGMMV Seminis’ cucumber portfolio continues to battle on with new varieties that are included under the umbrella of its Super Root Non Stop range. A winning concept that consists of first selecting varieties with powerful roots, and then using the aerial plant (plant and fruit quality) as the next selection criterion. With this ranking, materials with greater vigour, strength and resistance are obtained. These allow a good adaptation to extreme temperature conditions thanks to the vegetative-productive balance of the plant and they encourage a non-stop production with high quality fruit, in addition to resistance to vein, yellowing and powdery mildew virus. Alongside the characteristics inherent to the Super Root range, it has two differentiating advantages: its important adaptation to high temperature conditions, which turns it into a variety that is ‘unbeatable for hot conditions’ with a high tolerance to burnt heads and the darker, grooved fruit in its segment, as well as intermediate resistance to CGMMV (it is the first variety in the catalogue that includes this).
Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 11
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
BAYER LAUNCHES NEW VEGETABLES
10
the Vegetables by Bayer brands are deeply engaged in Bayer’s Food Chain Partnership initiatives which bring together growers, food processors, retailers, traders and others along the food value chain. With a network of 70 Food Chain managers across 44 countries, the Food Chain Partnerships team coordinates initiatives to improve sustainability, food safety, quality, yields and transparency in more than 70 different crops.
to an expert agronomic service with tailored digital solutions, “Vegetables by Bayer” partners with growers and customers to support insightful accurate decisions in relation to crop steering and management consistently building more confidence with our top varieties. For example, its Advanced Precision Horticulture (APH) Venture Initiative combines data science, plant phenotyping, optimized glasshouse climate conditions, and tangible customer insights to help autonomous monitoring of plant growth and balance to better steer plant performance, building confidence every step of the way and allowing growers to maximize crop yield and returns. Sustainability: According to the FAO, approximately 1/3 of all food produced for human consumption globally is lost or wasted each year. With its Seminis and De Ruiter vegetable seeds, Bayer is committed to helping reduce food loss and waste, ensuring highquality, nutritious produce reaches more consumers.
Innovation: With one of the most diverse germplasm libraries in the industry, combined with digital and crop protection innovations, Bayer is committed to developing integrated solutions that improve yield and adaptability, while delivering on consumer demand. This investment in innovation is seen in the recent launch of new tomato varieties with intermediate resistance to Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV), a viral disease that can be easily transmitted through farming tools and equipment, plants, water, soil and people. For the grower, these new varieties mean an opportunity to protect more marketable yield without fruit and leaf symptoms and provide a more consistent supply into the food chain. Performance: From best-in-class seeds
12 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
For example, as much as 40% of India’s tomatoes are lost before making it to the supermarket. New Bayer tomato hybrids such as ‘Ansal’ provide improved shelf life and the firmness required to survive the long and challenging journey from field to market. Similarly, the ‘Yellow Gold 48’ watermelon launched in select geographies, turns yellow at the exact moment of perfect ripeness, signaling to the farmer that it is time for harvest. By collecting the fruit at this crucial moment, the melons reach the consumer at their peak freshness, and maintain that same quality for longer. The Pocono onion offers incredible market flexibility thanks to its long-term storage potential of up to seven months, with exceptional quality out of storage, giving growers and value chain partners greater flexibility. The launch comes as the United Nations celebrates the “International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021,” which aims to raise awareness of the benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption. “From our industry-leading R&D to tailored solutions that go beyond the seed to meet the evolving needs of the market, ‘Vegetables by Bayer’ reflects our commitment to helping our customers grow their businesses so together we can foster a healthier, more sustainable world,” Dannenberg concluded.
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
DUTCH COTTON FROM GREENHOUSES? Cotton Production in Greenhouses investigated
C
otton is one of the largest agricultural products in the world. Worldwide, more than 20 million tons are produced annually. Growers use a relatively large amount of water, nutrients, crop protection agents and so-called ‘inhibitors’. The Business Unit Greenhouse Horticulture and Flower Bulbs of Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is investigating whether cotton cultivation can take place more sustainably in greenhouses, and thus whether it is possible in the long term to produce clothing from Dutch cotton. In a greenhouse, controlled cultivation is possible with less use of raw materials. In addition, water and nutrients can be
collected and reused, for example. That is why seeds of last year (2020) of eight different cotton varieties were sown in a greenhouse at the research location in Bleiswijk. Since then, a Greek variant has grown (Greece is a prominent cotton production country). In addition, some excellent varieties are grown. These ensure high-quality cotton, and it is exactly in that segment that there is still room on the international cotton market. The aim of the trial is to investigate how many kilograms of cotton as possible can be grown per square meter, with the highest possible value. This makes it possible to recoup the additional costs for cultivation in a greenhouse. This production can be optimized in various
ways, for example by allowing the crop to grow higher, through a higher planting density or through more cultivation rounds per year. The research into the cultivation of cotton is financed by the company Dutch Cotton BV. Editor: With increasing uncertainties of weather patterns in South Africa, cotton farming areas that were previously producing high volumes, diminished and areas in which cotton used to be grown many years ago, are now again being investigated. With high initial investment into greenhouses large enough to produce cotton, will this be a viable proposition in South Africa? As we are striving to re-establish a Made (and grown) in South Africa brand in other consumer goods, who knows what the future holds?
Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 13
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
SA Legislation Missing an Allinclusive Cannabis industry Act?
The industrial Cannabis/Hemp industry has immense growth potential in South Africa; and the continent as a whole, due to favourable climates, affordable land and relatively low labour costs. However, due to the nature of the product, the prospective prosperity of the industry depends on a clear regulatory regime – the inner workings of which are still in the developmental phase.
T
his was the perspective of André de Lange, Head of the Agriculture, Aquaculture & Fishing sector at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH), who recently facilitated a webinar entitled: ‘A Pragmatic Approach to South Africa’s Hemp Industry.’ The webinar provided a snapshot of the Hemp regulatory landscape; presented by Shaad Vayej, an Associate in CDH’s Dispute Resolution practice, followed by an overview of the opportunities that the sector presents for the country, provided by industry stalwart and Hemporium founder, Tony Budden. Liëtte van Schalkwyk, Associate in CDH’s Dispute Resolution practice, concluded the webinar by extracting important learnings from the industrial Cannabis industry in Lesotho. Vayej argued that; amongst other factors, South Africa’s track record of innovation in agriculture, relatively low blue and white-collar labour costs and increasingly transparent legal and compliance framework, makes for a low-cost, highquality destination for domestic and export orientated Cannabis activities. However, the transformative economic
potential of the industry depends greatly on the development of integrated value chains with significant buy-in from existing domestic and international investors. Agro-processing businesses and secondary manufacturers are essential to this value chain – a reality taken into account in South Africa’s Cannabis Master Plan. “The Cannabis Master Plan aims to provide a broad framework for the development and growth of the South African cannabis industry in order to contribute to economic development, job creation, inclusive participation, rural development and poverty alleviation. In pragmatic terms, the State recognises that conservative estimates indicate that 25 000 jobs could be created across the various value chains,” Vayej explains. Hemp, being Cannabis cultivated primarily for industrial purposes, has been declared an agricultural crop under the Plant Improvement Act 53 of 1976, a legal framework for import, export, cultivation, distribution, sale and research of hemp and hemp propagating material in South Africa for agricultural and industrial purposes. Consequently,
14 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development released Guidelines which facilitate hemp permit applications and mandate extensive record-keeping, annual reporting, notification and compliance with activityspecific permit conditions. As Vayej elaborates, “transparency and traceability” remain the State’s key concerns, which has invariably led to a number of legislative limits placed on Hemp production as well as a degree of bureaucracy – a potential pitfall faced by the local Cannabis industry. What is missing from the current regulatory framework is an over-arching Act – a legal instrument that could potentially go a long way in catalysing the development of the country’s fledgling industry. The latter sentiment was echoed by Tony Budden, whose portion of the webinar was dedicated to the opportunities that exist within the industry, as it negotiates its ‘place in the sun’ amongst South Africa’s more developed agricultural subsectors. Budden says that a “simple Act” that enabled rather than controlled
15
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
or curtailed the rapid growth of the industry was needed. In Budden’s opinion, only when this piece of legislation comes to fruition, can South Africa realise the economic growth potential and the job creation that the industry can and will support. As he explains, “the Act will be our starting point. Regulations are more complex, but they can be changed and will evolve as the industry develops. The most important thing right now is for us to start somewhere because ultimately we are playing catch-up to the rest of the world.” In Budden’s view, the key is not for industry stakeholders to focus too heavily on cultivation but to shift their focus to include the preparation of the raw material for consumption and invest in the manufacturing aspect of the industry. Concluding the talk, van Schalkwyk agreed that the South African regulatory
framework focuses too much on control and too little on enablement. This, for van Schalkwyk is a key lesson for the State, if it is to realise any success. As van Schalkwyk elaborated, “a ‘one size fits all’ approach to the Act governing the industry will provide a workable, foundational model for strict and evolving regulations.” Echoing the sentiments of Budden, she remarked that, “the Act doesn’t have to be perfect – the State simply needs to put pen to paper.”
From a webinar by law firm Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr
Pic: GPN Grow
✝ IN MEMORIAM ✝ We pay tribute to MICHAEL CORDES who passed away early in December. Mike played a pivotal role in the Fresh Produce Industry. He served as the General Manager of the Institute of Market Agents of South Africa for many years and in this time presented at the Undercover Farming Expo & Conference. We thank you and salute you for your service to our industry. May you rest in peace, and may your family be consoled in this difficult time. We truly have lost a legend. Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 15
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
COMPLIANCE BLITZ ON THE CARDS for the agrochemicals sector
Environmental regulators are ready to challenge the agrochemicals sector in the wake of the recent UPL chemical warehouse fire in Durban, which continues to capture headlines and place this sector firmly under the compliance spotlight.
A
s a preliminary step in what is expected to be a series of proactive measures aimed at strengthening the regulation of this sector, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment intends to call for an industry-wide baseline compliance profile, as well as the inclusion of this sector in the annual National Environmental Compliance and Enforcement Report (NECER). The NECER provides an overview of national environmental compliance activities and generally serves as a deterrent mechanism, due to the reputational and other adverse consequences associated with this publication. Operators in the agrochemicals sector are urged to heed this development and take steps to regularise any noncompliant activities, in anticipation of the impending compliance and enforcement blitz. Business activities in this industry typically involve the bulk manufacturing, storage, and handling of dangerous goods, including fertilizers, plantprotection chemicals, pesticides, and plant-growth hormones.
Due to the inherently hazardous nature of these materials, a range of permits may be required for associated facilities, including an environmental authorisation, an atmospheric emissions licence, occupational health, and safety consents, as well as any relevant municipal approvals which are commonly required for storing hazardous substances and conducting scheduled trades. It has become increasingly apparent that many operators in this sector are not compliant with the applicable regulatory framework, either due to a lack of awareness or genuine oversight, neither of which are defensible in law. In some instances, compliance obligations have been completely overlooked on the basis that agrochemicals operations were established before the relevant legislative instruments which govern this sector. This approach is untenable and urgent steps should be taken to address the unlawfulness of the relevant business activities. This may include, amongst other aspects, submitting a rectification application in terms of section 24G of the National Environmental Management
16 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
Act, 1998, which carries its own significant enforcement and criminal prosecution risks. The agrochemicals sector has been given fair warning and must use this window of opportunity to regularise any unlawful business activities ahead of the commencement of the anticipated compliance and enforcement drive, which will likely involve multiple regulators. As a starting point, operators must consider undertaking permit gap analyses of any relevant activities, and the outcome should inform the formulation and implementation of any necessary permitting compliance strategies. This pre-emptive approach will not only mitigate the associated compliance risks, but also contribute towards collective emergency preparedness initiatives, which are an integral component of this industry. By Garyn Rapson and Tendai Bonga from Webber Wentzel
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
Image of greenhouse fertigation mixing tanks. (Pic: Bosman Van Zaal)
GREENHOUSE MIXING TANKS:
Dissolving macro- and micronutrients
G
rowers who use plastic-lined dams or ‘porta-pools’ as nutrient solution reservoirs, fill these huge reservoirs with water, adjust the total alkalinity (pH) and then add the correct mass of each kind of fertilizer to it. An applied fertilizer should be dissolved before the next fertilizer is added. Pumps are used to induce a stir action. With this procedure, the chance of having high concentrations of ions such as calcium and sulphate in one area is minimised and precipitation is prevented. Growers with good quality feeding water (EC<0.3 mS cm-1) may prefer to buy pre-mixed fertilizers. Most ‘ready mixes’ are sold in two bags; one containing Ca (and possibly Fe-chelate and some potassium nitrate) and the rest of the nutrients are kept in a second bag. These bags should be dissolved separately. A problem with open, dam reservoirs is that algae grow in nutrient-rich water when it is exposed to light. Even though the solution may appear to be clear, low concentrations of algae may still block
filters and drippers. Thus, solutions in open reservoirs or ‘portapools’ should be darkened. Where the shading is not sufficient, algae will remain to be a problem (not to be lower than 3.5 since this chelate is destroyed at pH<3 (Deckers, 2004). An upper pH limit of 6.5 is also used for the Ca/Fe tank, to prevent damage to Fe-EDTA and to prevent transformation of ammonium into NH3 gas. EC-regulated nutrient concentrate injectors have synchronised valves, opening or closing valves from stock solution tanks to increase or decrease the EC. Other mixers may be volumetrically controlled. Should a stock solution contain nutrients at concentrations of 100 times more than the recommended levels for a specific crop, then one litre of concentrate needs to be injected per 100 litres of water. When you irrigate with nutrient solution (fertigate) and only have a small number of plants, the mixers may have difficulty to apply the pre-set EC value due to over- and under-dosing fluctuations.
This can be prevented by using lower concentrates in the stock solution tanks, until more or bigger plants are fertigated, needing bigger flow rates. When a micronutrient stock solution mix is prepared, make sure that the pH is always lower than 6.5. Some boron (B) sources may increase the solution pH when dissolved. Some growers with zero or very low micronutrient levels in their feeding water, may prefer to use premixed micronutrient products. Should these ‘micro-mixes’ be used, it can be added to a stock solution tank, provided that the pH in the tank is between 3.5 and 6.5. If this is not possible, a third micronutrient stock solution tank should be added. Two or more stock solution tanks Most growers with modern greenhouses use concentrated stock solutions in two or more tanks. They use special equipment to control the release from stock solution tanks into the feeding water so that the nutrient solution may reach the greenhouse at the correct EC
18
Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 17
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
and optimum pH. Where the quality of the feeding water is good, having an acceptable alkalinity and an EC of less than 0.3 mS cm-1, a commercial ‘ready mix’ may be used. These pre-mixed products are usually sold in two bags. The content of one bag is dissolved into the first stock solution tank and the other into the second tank. By adding 100 times more than the prescribed dose, the stock solutions will be 100xconcentrated. These concentrates are both fed into the feeding water at a rate of one litre per 100 litres of water. This is done by injecting the concentrates (A and B), at a distance of at least 1.5 m apart into the pipe with feeding water to allow mixing of A with the water before B is injected. Using feeding water that contains high levels of essential nutrients in the feeding water, it can simply be supplemented, changing the feeding water into a nutrient solution, rather than simply adding a standard mix to the water. ‘Ready mixes’ should not be used where the EC of feeding water is higher than ±0.3 mS cm-1 or where it contains high micronutrient levels. By compiling a nutrient solution to fit specific water or growing conditions, better ion ratios will be possible with a lower fertilizer bill as bonus. When stock solution tanks are used, the correct ion combinations should be considered. When mixing, the bestknown problem salts are CaSO4 and Ca(H2PO4)2.H2O, forcing growers to separate Ca from sulphate and phosphate. Rather than placing all the K-nitrate into the sulphate-phosphate tank, 50% of the K-nitrate may be transferred to the Ca-nitrate tank to speed up the dissolving process in the phosphate/sulphate tank.
By using MKP rather than MAP as P source in the phosphate/ sulphate tank, the tank will contain zero ammonium. By using ammonium nitrate with Ca-nitrate in the other tank, you have both N-sources in the Calcium tank and can easily change the ratio between nitrate and ammonium in this tank (without affecting the other tank), in order to manage the alkalinity and pH of the root zone solution, as discussed earlier (15.4). Where relatively low levels of acids (<0.8 meq L-1) are needed to lower the alkalinity of a feeding water, this can be done by adding the correct amount of acid to the phosphate/sulphate stock solution tank, provided that the chelated Fe is added to the Ca-nitrate tank. This phosphate/sulphate tank, containing the rest of the micronutrients, may be exposed to acidic conditions but an upper limit of pH 6.5 should not be exceeded. The pH in the Ca-nitrate tank, containing chelated Fe (Fe-EDTA), should not be exceeded. The pH in the Ca-nitrate tank, containing chelated Fe (Fe-EDTA), should not be lower than 3.5 since this chelate is destroyed at pH<3 (Deckers, 2004). An upper pH limit of 6.5 is also used for the Ca/Fe tank, to prevent damage to Fe-EDTA and to prevent transformation of ammonium into NH3 gas. EC-regulated nutrient concentrate injectors have synchronised valves, opening or closing valves from stock solution tanks to increase or decrease the EC. Other mixers may be volumetrically controlled. Should a stock solution contain nutrients at concentrations of 100 times more than the recommended levels for a specific crop, then one litre of concentrate needs to be injected per 100 litres of passing water. When you irrigate with nutrient solution (fertigate) and only have a small number of plants, the mixers may have difficulty to apply the pre-set EC value due to over- and under-dosing fluctuations. This can be prevented by using lower concentrates in the stock solution tanks, until more or bigger plants are fertigated, needing bigger flow rates. When a micronutrient stock solution mix is prepared, make sure that the pH is always lower than 6.5. Some boron (B) sources may increase the solution pH
18 Undercover farming I November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6
when dissolved. Some growers with zero or very low micronutrient levels in their feeding water may prefer to use premixed micronutrient products. Should these ‘micro-mixes’ be used, it can be added to a stock solution tank, provided that the pH in the tank is between 3.5 and 6.5. If this is not possible, a third micronutrient stock solution tank should be added. Mixing stock solutions Salts dissolve quicker at low concentrations. Therefore, the volume of water used when preparing stock solutions should be as big as possible. The stock solution tank should be filled with water to at least 70% before the fertilizers are added. A chemical pump may be useful to dissolve chemicals. It is important to monitor the pH during the dissolving of salts, especially in the phosphate/sulphate tank. As with micronutrients, the pH of a phosphate- or ammonium containing concentrate should not be allowed to rise above a level of 6.5. It may help to add the chemicals with acid residues (such as MKP) first. By having a suction nipple in the middle of a stock solution tank (halfway between the base and the top) and an injection nipple at the bottom, the chemical pump can be used to lift and mix the added fertilizers from the bottom of the tank. By: Prof Nic JJ Combrinck from his book; Nutrient Solutions Management.
An earlier picture taken at Welgevallen, Stellenbosch of Professor Nic Combrinck.
GREENHOUSES I SHADE NET I HYDROPONICS I AQUAPONICS
UNDERCOVER FARMING WESTERN CAPE 2021:
Conference Most Complimented
T
His company’s Public liability section of the farmer’s policy is of importance and brings peace of mind to the farmer. The company extended the section with Spread of Fire and Fire extinguishing charges to prevent the spread of the fire outside the farmer’s fence. Emil stated that the perception that insurance are expensive are nothing but true and challenged farmers to do the calculation by themselves. He quoted an example towards their Umbrella liability where the insured amount is R20 million at only a R1 000 premium per annum (R84 per month). He ended with the comment that insurance offers peace of mind that farmers needs and is most definitely an investment towards their sustainability. Further speakers gripped the attention of attendees and overall, the Conference atmosphere was filled with a professional air and enthusiasm for the future.
he recent Undercover Farming Western Cape Conference (3-4 November 2021) once more revealed that it brings together role players out of the local industry who have vested interests in a growing undercover farming sector in South Africa. Led by the Director of Undercover Farming Pty Ltd, Suzanne Oosthuizen the event was once more applauded even from producers and input providers who could not attend. Several auspicious speakers presented at the conference and subjects discussed made absolute sense in the here and now of the country and the world. The ever-increasing level of management tool development, focusing on more bio-specific methods and ingenious technologies which producers bring forward; being under pressure financially and for many other reasons, are
astounding. More-over, fine-tuning management principles such as labour responsibility and productivity, application of latest IoT apps, carefully selecting markets, zero waste tolerance and many other departments of an undercover farming operation, ensure profitability but moreover, keeps the producer at a sustainable and progressing business trajectory. Amongst the speakers at the Conference, Emil Pretorius at Santam Agriculture shared some thought intelligence by referring to history on veld fires. The National Veld & Forest Fire Act #101 of 1998 (Fire Act) is of real importance to farmers. Complying to the act is a given in terms of preparing and maintaining fire breaks, equipment and training of staff, notification and assisting to stop the spread of a fire and the standard care and diligence is a high one.
Subscribe now!
Electronic subscription for 6 bi-monthly issues is R 350.00 (ZAR) annually
For online subscription e-mail your details as indicated on the form to
NAME:
magazine@axxess.co.za
SURNAME:
with your subscription deposit details
Undercover
farming
ucf
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021
I VOLUME 18 NO 6 I I R45.00 per issue
ADDRESS:
For more information contact Marion Oosthuizen (+27) (0) 71 693 9300
CODE: CONTACT NUMBER:
or e-mail management@axxess.co.za
MELONS IN A GREENHOUSE
AGRICULTURAL e-TRADE
COTTON IN GREENHOUSES?
GREENHOUSE MIXING TANKS
Melons in a greenhouse _ the basic facts Page 4
Agricultural e-Trade offers a key enabler for Africa Page 9
Cotton Production in Greenhouses investigated Page 13
Dissolving macro- and micronutrients Page 17
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 November/December 2021 I Volume 18 No 6 19
UNDERCOVER FARMING EXPO & CONFERENCE 2022
WATCH THIS SPACE
