Undercover
farming
ucf
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September - October 2018 Volume 15 No 5
I I R40.00
Greenhouse Chat ...
shade net
FLOWERS
produce
greenhouses
Setting the Standard Page 4
Chrysanthemum: Hallo Future! Page 10
Fresh Produce Opportunities Page 12
Greenhouse Economics Page 22
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MAIN ARTICLE
PROPRIETOR I ADVERTISING SUZANNE OOSTHUIZEN 012-543 0880 I 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 ADDRESS PO Box 759, Montana Park 0159 DESIGN Fréda Prinsloo PRINTING Business Print Centre 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. Subscription Online subs: Email to suzanne@axxess.co.za If you subscribe on-line, e-mail your deposit and address details to: magazine@axxess.co.za. More information from Suzannne Oosthuizen: 012-543 0880. Subscription form available on inside back page. visit us at I besoek ons by
Think about this
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalms 18:2 N.I.V.
Contents 4
PlusNet – Setting the standard in the shade cloth industry in South Africa
6 Let plants order the nutrients they require 9 Grow veggies with Oemff! 10 Dekker chrysanten South Africa – Hallo Future! 12 Fresh produce trade in Africa boasts greater
FRONT page: Piet Buitendag of Plusnet with Brett Gosling in a vineyard under shade net.
INSIDE ...
opportunities than ever before
15 Immobilize new as well as old pest immigrants with modern chemistry
16 Dynamis & Florad agricultural heating solutions 17 Grolite – Geologically unique perlite mined and
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processed in South Africa for the horticultural industry
18 Digital transformation in fresh produce industry 20 Rootstocks: Build your crop on a strong foundation 21 New technology: Robotic pollinator is like huge bee
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with wheels and arm
22 Water quality: pH and alkalinity: How this affects the greenhouse grower
22 Greenhouse economics for the new investor into greenhouse farming
21
A
new generation and set of procedures are coming to the fore in the undercover farming industry globally. As younger entrants either take over from their parents or start a new enterprise, they bring along with them technologies and brain skills we never adopted in the industry before. It is necessary though as one look at the figures of greenhouse or shade net farmers in South Africa and the whole of Africa changing, so this new set are facing challenges that were never before experienced. On the positive side, the new technologies and business mannerism may seem challenging for the older generation, but are positive obstacles with new mechanisms that help the producer overcome them and, indeed excel at what he or she is doing. Yes, we always have to keep the basics in mind but with so much at hand to increase profits even though the local economy is tight, exporters and those growing alternative crops and always seeking new markets make the graph running upwards. We listen to speakers which are in the trade or authorities on the various commodities grown undercover. They make it their business to keep track of the latest directions in which fresh produce, flowers, seedlings etc. are going in the world. We are hastily moving away from the staunch practices of our forefathers and are looking at new markets with changing needs. Who ever thought that a dyed flower would take the market by storm? I grew up selling flowers in a small Karoo town and never in my wildest dreams ever thought I will see the day one grows white varieties of a flower to be dyed for the market at its end destination! Growers of various commodities today are more finance and investment oriented. Nowadays to be successful you have to consider supplying a blockchain. Implement a complete supply chain on a blockchain to track the whole process in a single place. Trade partners interact in a frictionfree manner, gaining visibility into their supply chain so they can make smart forecasting decisions on behalf of the grower, market and the consumer. Did you notice our new look of Undercover Farming this month? Rome was not built in a day – expect more interesting changes to enhance this fifteen year-old magazine for your reading pleasure!.
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PlusNet
Setting the standard in the shade cloth industry in South Africa PlusNet, a South African shade cloth manufacturing company, based in Randfontein, specialises in a wide range of decorative and functional shade cloth products, for all applications in farming and business with representation nationally. Agricultural and Decorative Net
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lusNet has a comprehensive range of agricultural shade netting from 20% to 80% shade, tailored to improve spectral transmittance and provide the optimal lighting and protection for your crop. Their range of attractive and functional decorative shade cloths provide cover up to 90% shade, and come in a range of colours.
Business
Mini Net Tunnels
Turn Key Projects
Mini Tunnels are the quickest hasslefree infrastructure available when endeavouring to open a micro agricultural business. Net tunnels are the ideal portable, affordable do-ityourself infrastructure for instant shade for your livestock or small gardening business. Shade tunnels come in various sizes and are simple to assemble. The PlusNet team can assist clients in planning the structures and netting from A to Z.
PlusNet manufactures specialized agricultural netting at their factory in Gauteng. They manage turnkey projects requiring agricultural shade netting infrastructure anywhere in South Africa. PlusNet is an ISO registered, BBE certified company with extensive experience in agricultural project development involving agricultural tunnels and hail net protection for the production of high-yield, highvalue fruits and vegetables. They work
As the leading manufacturer of agricultural shade cloth, the PlusNet shade cloth product line will open up a spectrum of new and evolving opportunities for new product variants. Whether you provide shade cloth for vegetable tunnels, shade houses, carports or creative ‘green’ initiatives, the wide range of PlusNet netting offers the client great opportunities at the best possible price. PlusNet services the whole of South Africa, and are confident that they will be able to assist clients in all their shade cloth and netting needs.
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Their interest in the shade net infrastructure they erect does not cease when the owner takes delivery of the viable project. Even after hand-over, the project manager is available for appropriate follow-up on maintenance and further development of the project.
PlusNets’ Promise PlusNet is more than just a shade cloth manufacturing company. We offer a wide range of functional netting to protect what is important to you. If they don’t have what you need in stock, they’ll schedule your order and make it up for you! with financiers and project owners to identify and develop the optimum shade cloth infrastructure for a successful agricultural business. Their product consultants are netting specialists with expertise in infrastructure design and construction. They come in at the initial stage of turnkey project planning with advice on the appropriate materials and shade net structures for the proposed farming project. They
then manage the construction project, including ground works and netting installation. Staff training is supplied in infrastructure maintenance and other aspects defined in the project contract. In cases where the project is being managed by another body, PlusNet is available to quote on the infrastructure manufacture and installation.
The PlusNet Team is ready to assist you with your net-related queries or projects. For more information on the products, prices or to connect with the sales rep in your area, contact nets@plusnet.co.za.
Nets: Piet Buitendag – 082 457 1761 Construction: James Henning – 082 335 9096 Internal Sales: Marthie Sadie – 011 412 3954
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Let plants order the nutrients they require At first, Dutch growers who allowed nutrient rich water to run from their farms were contributing to chemical pollution and the increased incidence of water weeds in their canals and rivers. Strict laws were introduced since to decrease this environmental pollution, by restricting the release of nutrient-rich water from production units.
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ue to intensive research projects on recycling, they succeeded to reach this goal already by 2000. Two problems were solved in this process: The first was to monitor and adjust ions in the nutrient solution, and the second to sterilize the recycled solution.
Accumulation of sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) Feeding water with low Na and Cl levels must be used when nutrient solutions are recycled (closed system) in order to prevent the accumulation of these ions. The Dutch overcame this problem by building plastic lined reservoirs, filling it with rain water from their glasshouse roofs. By mixing Na- and Cl-rich water with rainwater, the Na and Cl concentrations were
lowered to safe levels. Since low EC crops such as roses can only absorb 5 ppm Na and 11 ppm Cl, these are the highest levels that may be allowed in the feeding water for roses in a 100% closed system. A saline tolerant crop such as tomatoes can remove 16 ppm Na and 32 ppm Cl, allowing tomatoes to be recycled with feeding water containing these, or lower, Na and Cl levels. Should water with higher Na and Cl levels be used for a limited recycling period (until the red lights start flashing) saline sensitive crops should be flushed as soon as root zone levels reach 69 ppm Na or 107 ppm Cl. Most greenhouse crops will be unaffected with Na levels below 115 and Cl below 178 ppm. Saline tolerant crops such as tomatoes will be able to withstand levels of up to 184 and 284 ppm Na and Cl respectively.
Should these levels be exceeded, yield and quality losses will occur.
Adjusting nutrient levels As a crop develops from the vegetative to reproductive stage, or with a change in climatic conditions, its nutritional needs change. The use of leaf deficiency or toxicity symptoms to identify nutritional problems is ineffective. It is impossible to avoid yield and quality losses with this approach, even by using quick petiole sap measurements as aid. The use of nutrient foliar sprays should not be necessary. Root zone analyses, developed in the Netherlands during the last few years, can help growers to identify nutritional imbalances before it is reflected in the leaves and before damage can be done to the yield potential.
Root zone analyses, developed in the Netherlands during the last few years, can help growers to identify nutritional imbalances before it is reflected in the leaves and before damage can be done to the yield potential.
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A root zone analysis is a must for recycling, but it can also be useful to optimise nutrition in a free-draining system. This procedure is used by the Dutch and the Belgians, serving areas with high densities of growers. The laboratories send technicians to take root zone samples every week or two. The results and suggested changes to nutrient mixes are E-mailed to the growers the following day. The duplication of such a system under South African conditions may be impractical at this stage, but the same principles may be adapted to improve our nutrient managerial effectiveness. A root zone analysis is a must for recycling, but it can also be useful to optimise nutrition in a free-draining system. The procedure starts with a chemical analysis of the root zone solution. One fresh sample from the drainage tank in a closed system, or a mix of 20 fresh sub samples, taken from growing bags in a drain-to-waste system, should be analysed at least monthly. Since changes in the ammonium: nitrate ratio may occur during storage, these samples should be analysed as soon as possible. Apart from regular pH and EC checks, root zone analyses are used to detect deviations from preset root zone norms, thus, allowing the plants to communicate with their growers. Before this can be done, the EC and nutrient levels of the sampled solution should be adjusted to match the EC of the norm solution. This procedure is described in a publication: ‘Nutrient solutions and Greenhouse management’ only available from Dr. Nic Combrink: Mobile: 082 603 8264, Landline: 021 887 5490, E-mail: njjc@sun.ac.za
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Bosman van Zaal banner
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Grow veggies with Oemff! With Kynoch’s innovative and tailor-made products you can now apply fertilizer according to the needs and growth stages of your different crops. each growth stage and the range comprises of three tailor-made formulations. That is, Veggie OEMFF® Starter, Veggie OEMFF® Grow and Veggie OEMFF® Fruit, to complement the macro and micro nutritional requirements of the plant at a particular phenological stage. It supports and enhances root development, growth, flowering and cell enlargement and assists in the mitigation of crop stresses whilst attributing towards excellent yields and profits. Veggie OEMFF® Starter is effective early in the season where root develop ment and the establishment of the young plant are of the utmost importance. Veggie OEMFF® Grow enhances growth because of its specific element composition, while Veggie OEMFF® Fruit plays an important role in flowering and cell enlargement of fruit and bulbs.
It should be noted that foliar sprays should be used in conjunction and support of normal fertilizing practices, whilst the use of a suitable sticker is recommended. Vegetable producers are invited to speak to one of Kynochs’ regional managers, sales team or agriculturalists to find out more regarding the specific products that will address your specific needs: MPUMALANGA, HIGHVELD & LIMPOPO; Bruce Shuker on 082 578 6469, FREE STATE, NORTHERN CAPE & NORTH WEST; Jakes du Plessis on 082 568 1465, KWAZULU-NATAL & EASTERN CAPE; Mark Tayler on 083 703 1080, WESTERN CAPE; Johan Coetsee on 082 555 0879.
The Veggie OEMFF® range consists of three tailor-made formulations, i.e. Veggie OEMFF® Starter, Veggie OEMFF® Grow and Veggie OEMFF® Fruit, to complement the macro and micro nutritional requirements of the plant at each phenological stage. Veggie OEMFF®: • Supports and enhances root development, growth, flowering and cell enlargement. • The applicable micro-elements are chelated. • Assists in the mitigation of crop stresses. • Can be used under high or low pH conditions. • Contributes towards excellent yields and profits.
Kynoch – enhanced efficiency innovation. uppe marketing A16687\UF
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n this way, Kynoch ensures that your crops are given what they need, when they need it most. Furthermore, you have peace of mind, because you know with Kynoch on your farm from the outset, you get the most out of your crop and can be assured of improved efficiency in crop quality and yield potential. The company has developed a complete range of products (nutrition) to cater for the crop-specific and growth-stage specific needs of your crops. They have a range of products that will specifically enhance the quality and performance of your veggie crop, including: KynoPlusTM or its derivatives and specific KynoPlusTM blends, KynoPopTM and Veggie OEMFF® (Starter, Grow and Fruit). Veggie OEMFF® has been specially formulated and is growth stage specific. Veggie OEMFF® from Kynoch will boost your veggies to reveal only their best at
011 317 2000 | info@kynoch.co.za | www.kynoch.co.za
Farmisco (Pty) Ltd t/a Kynoch Fertilizer Reg No: 2009/0092541/07 25 kg – Veggie OEMFF® Starter K9088 (Act 36 of 1947). 25 kg – Veggie OEMFF® Grow K9090 (Act 36 of 1947). 25 kg – Veggie OEMFF® Fruit K9091 (Act 36 of 1947).
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Dekker chrysanten
South Africa – Hallo Future! Dekker Chrysanten is a Chrysanthemum breeding company, based in Holland that is more than fifty years in existence. It has extended its breeding and production globally over years so that it is now one of the biggest Chrysanthemum breeders in the world.
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n South Africa Dekker is represented by Dekker Chrysanten South Africa close to Brits under management of Wayne Gold who has been in the flower trade for many years. He organises an open day for the Purchase Managers of the various major chain stores and Chrysanthemum growers where they have the opportunity to view new breeding stock. This is an auspicious occasion and the Undercover Farming team were invited to visit Wayne during the recent open days in September.
total sales remained the same. When I started in the Chrysanthemum breeding industry, the local market share of our Chrysanthemum production was 85% and the balance was exported.
grow flowers in flower types growing numbers. I am soon visiting Kenya, Zimbabwe, and other countries to support growers willing to grow new varieties for export from their respective countries. Chrysanthemum is a type of flower that is tougher than for instance roses or quite a few other current popular flower types marketed. Its shelf-life even after handling and shipping is just that much longer,” Wayne explained.
marketed.
“The picture since completely changed. Now 70% of Chrysanthemum is being exported and the balance is swooped up by the local market. Various reasons can be given for this change. The majority of flowers are sold in the Western Cape. Obviously the downward economic trend over past years, the devaluation of the local currency and other factors During a conversation with Wayne such as sectors of the population who he talked about the flower growing historically were the regular purchasers situation in South Africa from his of flowers diminished for one; perspective. different trends of Chrysanthemum is a type of beautifying events, “Dekker South wedding occasions flower that is tougher than Africa is growing for another and for instance roses or quite in volumes since more,” Wayne said. Africa started to a few other current popular
“The flower growing situation in South Africa experiences a downward trend currently – and then I am specifically speaking from the point of view as a Chrysanthemum breeder. Eleven years ago when I became involved with Dekker, there were 31 Chrysanthemum growers in the country – currently there are only eight left but the volume and
Ton Griekspoor of Dekker Chrysanten Holland with the GM of Dekker Chrysanten South Africa, Wayne Gold.
in Holland, Columbia or Malaysia – everywhere the same branding will be displayed. We decided to call ourselves ‘Chrysanthemum Valley’ and so in every country Chrysanthemum companies will have their own ‘Chrysanthemum Valley’ as such. This new image portrayed will greatly improve the marketing of Chrysanthemum globally.”
Wayne Gold, GM of Dekker Chrysanten SA features their new image.
Visiting Dekker South Africa at Brits during the open days was Ton Griekspoor from Dekker Chrysanten in the Netherlands. He is the company’s chief breeding selector and an expert on fine-tuning breeder operations around the world where Dekker Chrysanten is located. Ton visits Wayne to help select varieties that are commercially viable throughout the year, heat tolerant varieties and cold tolerant varieties. In so doing, together they ensure yearround production of Chrysanthemum for the export and local markets.
Dekker Chrysanten Head Quarters is in Holland and other countries where breeders operate are; Italy, South Africa, that serves Africa and the Middle East, Malaysia; which looks after Australia, China and Japan and lastly Columbia; which looks after South America and the USA. Dekker Chrysanten South Africa is the only Chrysanthemum breeding company in South Africa. All other breeding companies only have agents selling cuttings.
Wayne announced the new look of Dekker Chrysanten world-wide. “ A whole new corporate branding was recently introduced called ‘Hallo Future’ globally at all Chrysanthemum breeders and growers whether it be
“Even though it is quite expensive to grow Chrysanthemum in South Africa, it is still far cheaper than growing it in Europe. The same pattern was followed by rose growers in Europe; they sought other countries with more
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space and lower labour costs than in Europe like South America, Africa and Asia. The thin margins we have to grow Chrysanthemum on in our country leave us no other alternative than to seek growers elsewhere in Africa. “Having to deal with the current situation, we hold on and fine-tune our operations. Thankfully, Chrysanthemum is a flower type which is in high demand and has a long shelf-life. Therefore the purchaser of a bunch of Chrysanthemum is ensured that it will outlast any other indoor-grown flower type. We expect that it should last at least fourteen days in the home – that is after picking, packing, transporting, air-freight, marketed etc. The Eastern Block middle class is a fast emerging market for Chrysanthemum and therefore it is focused on sharply as an extension of our markets. The same can be said of the UAE where it is reported that a grower in Kenya found nineteen outlets in the Middle East. “Dekker for the last five years has focused on producing varieties of white flowers for the ‘painted flower’ market. This is the latest trend globally. 86% of Chrysanthemum imported by USA is being dyed there. Dekker is the first
Wayne Gold discusses new varieties on show with a Chrysanthemum grower.
country in the world that could create a flower that can be dyed pink and blue. Our ‘bread and butter’ lines are still in the colours which a sector of the market likes but all our white varieties are able to take dyes – which makes us the world leader in this flower type,” Wayne proudly announced. Growing Chrysanthemum depend largely on its quality to be dyed (and hold the colour), strength, air-freightability and handling right in to the home of the customer. Originally, Chrysanthemum was grown for Holland
and Europe but now it has to be bred to have all the qualities mentioned previously – quite a change to go through to remain at the top. Dekker Chrysanten South Africa at Brits featured 67 varieties during their open days. These Chrysanthemum varieties were all individually thoroughly tested at three sites to make sure it offers the grower the results they expect and at the end of the day do both consumer and Dekker proud and satisfied with the product. JS
CHRYSANTHEMUM VALLEY SOUTH AFRICA
Colour your world Dekker Chrysanten South Africa PTY (Ltd) P.O. Box 4668 Brits 0250 Tel: +27 (0) 83 824 9355 E-mail: waynegold@dekkerchrysanten.com Undercover farming I September - October 2018 I Volume 15 No 5 11
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Fresh produce trade in Africa boasts greater “African agriculture has greater opportunities than ever before. I do not recall a time when agriculture had such a centre position in terms of wanting to drive this continent to the next level economically, socially and otherwise. More so for fresh produce. Fresh produce will continue to lead the markets.�
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opportunities than ever before
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his bold statement from Mr Coillard Hamusimbi of the Indaba Agricultural Policy Research Institute (IAPRI) in Zambia was made recently.
Despite available land and an abundance of water resources, the great paradox is that Africa cannot feed itself. The continent relies heavily on food imports – most of the countries in Africa is a nett importer of food – as well as food aid. Against this background there is pressure on currencies and rapid urbanisation is a critical challenge for most countries. What is shaping and driving growth for the fresh produce trade in Africa? Before taking a more in-depth look at these driver and shapers of growth, it is important to understand the current baseline of agriculture and trends in fresh produce consumption in Africa. In a nutshell, Africa’s underutilised resources, rapidlyincreasing urbanisation and modern demand-driven consumer food-buying patterns provide vast opportunities to sell fresh produce to the young, informed and modernising consumer. In addition, the potential supply response poses a significant platform to unlock the potential for intercontinental and specifically regional and cross-border trade. The development of fresh fruit and vegetable markets in Africa is regarded as a key economic driver to stimulate growth and feed an ever-increasing modernised population.
Agriculture is a key driver Agriculture remains a key driver of economic growth and poverty reduction in Africa. The continent’s growth rate is above average and from an economic employment perspective agriculture is the biggest employer. This industry employs some 70% of the workforce and most countries generate, on average,
Mr Coillard Hamusimbi of the Indaba Agricultural Policy Research Institute (IAPRI) in Zambia.
30% of Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) which is quite significant.
Under-utilised resources – land and water Rich in oil and natural resources, Africa is the world’s fastest-growing region for foreign direct investment. On the agriculture front, Africa is endowed with a large land resource and, as a continent, Africa has the largest surface area of uncultivated land and agricultural land, in general, is cheap. The challenge today lies in unlocking the potential of agriculture in Africa, especially on a commercial level. Mr Cheyo Mwenechanya of FNB Zambia reported it is estimated that around 80% of land in Africa is communal land. Small-scale family farming still dominates the landscape with an estimated 33 million farms that are less than 2 ha in size. There is still a lack of registered title deeds for land, although governments all over Africa are increasingly considering options in this regard. Although Africa is the second driest continent in the world, it has abundant water resources including large rivers like the Congo, Nile, Zambezi, Niger and Lake Victoria. It is estimated that around 75% of sub-Saharan Africa falls within 53 international river basin catchments that traverse multiple borders. Despite this, irrigation in Africa is underdeveloped. Only 6% of Africa is under irrigation compared to Asia’s 40%.
Population growth and urbanisation Africa’s population growth is expected to increase to about 1,600 billion people by 2030 and around 2,350 billion people in 2050. What is interesting though, is the fact that 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population is below the age of 30. 19
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SUMIPLEO 500 EC ®
Philagro volblad advert: “Simplio” NUUT
Unique chemistry for effective plague insect control Sumipleo® is unique in its IRAC product class and is widely trusted as effective alternative chemistry for resistance management of Lepidoptera plagues in Southern African. Control of African bollworm, Potato moth and Tuta absoluta in potatoes, African bollworm and Tuta absoluta in tomatoes, Diamondback moth in Crucifereae such as cabbage, broccoli and brussel sprouts, and African bollworm in lettuce are now registered. Registration for the control of Fall Army Worm (Spodoptera frugiperda), the new invasive plague in maize and sweet corn has also recently been obtained. Strong suppression of American and Pea Lyriomyza leaf miners in potatoes and tomatoes as well as strong suppression of semi-loopers in tomatoes can also be expected.
SENSIBLE CHOICE The powerful action of the active ingredient Pyridalyl offers numerous outstanding benefits: • Safe for mammals and birds (Tox. class 3: Blue band). • Safe for operators. • Effective against larger Lepidoptera larvae with low risk to beneficial plague enemies, as well as bees and earthworms. • Active against chemically resistant Lepidoptera species, especially when varied with other alternative chemical groups like DiPel® DF and Florbac® WG. • No cross resistance with other chemical groups is currently known. • Sumipleo® works more slowly than pyrethroids but feeding damage in sprayed crops ceases soon after application by inhibition of nutrition. • Ideal product for use in Integrated Pest Management programmes (IPM). For more information on the new generation of chemistry and the proven benefits of Sumipleo®, speak to your nearest Philagro agent or the Product Manager, Henk Terblanche - 082 829 4070.
SUMIPLEO® 500 EC CONSULT THE PRODUCT LABEL FOR FULL DIRECTIONS Sumipleo® is a registered trademark of the Sumitomo Chemical Company, Tokyo, Japan. Sumipleo (Reg. No. L8377 Act 36/1947), contains Pyridalyl. Caution.
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Philagro South Africa (Pty) Ltd Reg no: 98/10658107
PostNet Suite #378, Private Bag X025, Lynnwood Ridge 0040 Pretoria Tel: 012 348 8808 Somerset West Tel: (021) 851 4163
www.philagro.co.za
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Immobilize new as well as old pest immigrants with modern chemistry Farming in Southern Africa has been in a state of uproar since a particularly unwelcome immigrant arrived at the beginning of 2017. The Fall Army Worm (Spodoptera frugiperda), originally from the new world, received much attention in the media. In agricultural circles almost every new pest is consequently under scrutiny and entomologists have their hands full making identifications.
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he Fall Army Worm is in fact the third immigrant pest that, in the last few years, has caused serious concern on our local farms. Fairly fresh in the memory is the appearance of another immigrant moth species: Tuta absoluta, which made vegetable growers feel distinctly uncomfortable in 2015/6. Before Tuta we received another new arrival in 2013, namely the fruit fly (Bactrocera invadens), that made a name for itself on the agricultural stage. Before that, the nightmare flyers: Lyriomyza trifolii (American leaf miner) and more recently L. huidobrensis, another leaf miner, causing veggie growers to break out in sweat. All these immigrants have established themselves locally and are now considered to be serious pest headaches. With certain exceptions, the new immigrant plagues statistically have two common denominators. Firstly, they come from all over the world through northern Africa, crossing borders with impunity. Secondly, the youngest immigrants have a wide appetite for crop hosts that threaten not only vegetable growers, but agriculture as a whole. These characteristics naturally increase their pest status. Chemical control measures that are extensively and repeatedly sprayed on low-margin crops are a well-known recipe for pest resistance development. Some pests come into the country already resistant, as evidenced by the new Fall Army Worm with its apparent resistance to pyrethroids. Apart from the newcomers, vegetable growers have a host of other cosmopolitan pests to contend with, which have long since become commonplace on farms. For decades these pests have been bombarded mostly with the same old-fashioned cheap chemistry. This gave rise to resistance manifested in, for instance, African bollworm and certain thrips
host crop stops soon after application, which immediately reduces crop damage. SumiPleo® has the characteristic advantage of also killing larger larvae where pyrethroids and biological Bt products will effectively control only larvae up to and including 3rd instar. These features make SumiPleo® an ideal way to key in Integrated Pest Management programmes (IPM). In potatoes, SumiPleo® controls Potato moth, Tuta absoluta, and also suppresses the flying leaf miners Lyriomyza trifolii and L. huidobrensis. In tomatoes, SumiPleo® controls African bollworm, Tuta absoluta and suppresses the flying leaf miners Lyriomyza trifolii and L. huidobrensis, as well as the tomato semi-looper (Chrysodeixes acuta). species, with chemicals like organophosphates, carbamates and pyrethroids. Philagro has acquired a wide range of registrations against many of the most stubborn pests on important vegetable crops, like pyridalyl (SumiPleo®). SumiPleo® has some outstanding beneficial features that distinguish it from oldfashioned hard chemicals prone to pest resistance. SumiPleo® is a blue band product of Philagro SA. It is relatively safe with regard to mammals and birds, and highly specific to the control of certain insect pests such as Lepidoptera or moth larvae, leaf miners and thrips. It is relatively safe against insect pest enemies such as parasitic and predatory wasps, as well as other beneficial organisms such as earthworms and bees. Pyridalyl has unique chemistry, currently classified in its own IRAC group, with no cross resistance known to other agents from other IRAC class groups. The method of action is cytotoxic, specifically insecticidal, which causes target insects to die a little slower than with neuropathic agents. Nutrition to the
In various Cabbage crops SumiPleo® as well as FlorBac® effectively control Diamondback moth larvae. In lettuce, African bollworm is kept in check. In sweetcorn, SumiPleo® controls the dreaded Army Fall Worm (Spodoptera frugiperda), which has received an emergency registration. For a more effective environmental approach and intelligent resistance management, SumiPleo® is alternated with Philagro’s organic Bacillus products like DiPel®DF on Lepidoptera larvae in most vegetable crops and FlorBac®WG in cabbage crops – specifically against Diamondback moth larvae. SumiPleo® and Bt products boast relatively short withholding periods in vegetable crops, which make them ideal for positioning in a control window shortly before harvesting. SumiPleo® (Reg.no. L8377, Act 36 / 1947) contains Pyridalyl, Caution. (Sumitomo Chemicals, Japan). DiPel®DF (Reg.no. L6441, Act 36 / 1947) contains Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstakii, Caution. (Valent Biosciences, USA). FlorBac®WG (Reg.no. L 5531, Act 36 / 1947) contains Bacillus thuringiensis var. aizawaii. Caution. (Valent Biosciences, USA).
H.P. Terblanche, 082 829 4070, Product Manager Insecticides, Philagro SA
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Dynamis & Florad agricultural heating solutions Over the past 40 plus years Dynamis & Florad Heating has been involved in finding efficient, sustainable and innovative ways of heating all forms of spaces. From residential and commercial spaces, through to various farming applications.
B
e it chickens or seedlings, Dynamis & Florad Heating has been helping farmers sustain consistently higher production yield all year round. By efficiently and effectively maintaining a desired ambient and/or soil temperature all year round, farmers are able to reduce the slump in growth production in the cooler winter months. There is also the added advantage of dramatically reducing the effect of stock loss on more sensitive products to early morning to frost. Dynamis & Florad Heating provide a turnkey solution from energy gathering/generation, storage of energy, distribution thereof and importantly the accurate control of the given environment. Each project that Dynamis & Florad Heating is involved with is an unique project, so each has to be designed and specified for that particular projects requirements. Through the use of solar energy and heat pumps or any other form of heat generation method and through the different energy deliver forms, each project is approached with a clean slate thought process to be sure that the best combination of generation, distribution and control is applied to that project. From built in pipe systems, that use concrete floors to hold thermal mass or individually sized and built heating mats that can be placed on top of growing tables. Dynamis & Florad has solution that could help maintain a better winter production run that in a reasonable period of time will give you a return on your initial investment.
Each project that Dynamis & Florad Heating is involved with is an unique project.
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Grolite – geologically unique perlite
mined and processed in South Africa for the horticultural industry Pratley, the same company that manufactures Pratley Putty, has been mining and processing Perlite since the 1970’s. With its wealth of experience in mining and processing geologically unique Perlite ores, the company has for many years been supplying unique expanded Perlite based products to both local and international markets.
O
ne such product that is well known within the horticultural community is “Grolite”. Through careful selection of raw materials and a specialised processing technology, Pratley Grolite provides growers with an unmatched Perlite substrate that has vastly superior attrition resistance. Growers that may have used inferior Perlite substrates, often identified by their soft white chalky appearance, are mindful of the fact that these materials frequently arrive on site as a bag full of fine white Perlite dust. Grolite’s attrition resistant properties minimise dust formation, especially during transport and blending. Another unique growing medium mined and supplied by Pratley is its Vulture Creek Clinoptilolite Zeolite. Zeolite’s unique honeycomb structure, together with its Cation exchange
Picture 1. Grolite bag and geographically unique Perlite raw material
properties enables it to hold important elements such as Nitrogen, Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium. These elements can then be held close to the root zone and slowly released back to the plant when required. Zeolite is therefore regarded as a slow release fertilizer amongst expert growers. One area where Zeolite is being successfully used is in high end turf installations often found on Golf courses or Polo fields. Interestingly, Zeolite is also used by NASA as a soilless growing medium
Picture 2. Vulture Creek Clino bag and Clinoptilolite Zeolite ore mined and processed by Pratley
for plant growth in space. This area of horticulture is known as Zeophonics. Being a prominent local supplier, Pratley holds distribution warehouses for all its products in Gauteng, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Pratley’s expert sales team is also just a phone call away. For further information on Pratley’s unique product range visit www.pratleyminerals.com.
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Digital transformation in fresh produce industry Mr Chris Komatas, Vice-president of Global Operations for Compac said a growing population requires less food losses and an increase in production. In a world that needs the fruit industry to grow and gain efficiency, the question is what digital transformation can accomplish for the industry?
K
omatas said fruit and vegetables, along with roots and tubers, have a wastage rate of 45%, which is the highest of any food products. It means that almost half of all fruit and vegetables produced are wasted. He said digital transformation in the fruit industry can mean improvements in profitability. Speed can be improved by increasing efficiency from the farm to the consumer, especially with regard to packhouse and repack sorting.
Major improvement With sensor technology used in other industries such as collecting data from diamonds, data collected by multiple sensors is available on the internal attributes of each fruit. This can lead to a major improvement in efficiency, as data can be handled at a scale of 52 million mandarins per day. Up to 300 photographs are taken of each fruit, which means that data of up to 30 MB
is recorded per fruit. A large sorter could generate 1,6 petabytes of data per day. (One petabyte is equal to a million gigabytes.) The industry is investing in research to establish existing technology into fresh produce with digital transformation across industries. Innovators are already moving ahead with scale and collaboration. Other industries such as financial services, telecommunications, manufacturing, transportation and healthcare informatics are providing a clear roadmap. The extent of digitisation varies by sector though. In a comparison of digitisation by different industries, information and communication technology (ICT) and media are the leaders with relatively high digitisation, with agriculture and hunting at the very bottom of the list. Agriculture falls in a category which is large and localised with low productivity which can transform for productivity and better service delivery.
Chris Komatas
Komatas said digital information can open up opportunities for all role-players in the fruit industry such as growers, producers, packagers, traders, distributors and retailers. With more sorting and grading data available, growers can apply even more precision agriculture in producing their fruit. Provenance and traceability will be much better. Packhouse operations can be more productive and maintenance more predictable. Distribution will be more efficient, providing the right transport at the right time and retail’s last fulfilment will be aligned to the product. By implementing digital standards working groups, efficiency will lead to; Precision agriculture, optimising yield, throughput, and uptime through machine data, reducing waste through alignment of packaging and transport and integrating production data with last-mile fulfilment practices.
Innovation Genetics Quality
The all-in-one seed distributor Wanda
• Medium early cherry tomato • Suitable for nethouse and open field production • Average fruit weight 20 - 25g • Brix 8-10
Dolcetto
• Bright red grape shaped cherry tomato • Average fruit weight 10 to 15g • Brix 10 • Tolerant to ToMV and Fol: 0, 1
Sorbetto
• Mini-plum fruit type • Average fruit weight 25g • Brix 8-10 • Deep red colour • Tolerant to ToMV and Fol: 0, 1
SV 7846 TH*
• Suitable for undercover production • Good tolerance of TYLCV and Powdery Mildew • Suited for year round production
*Cultivar is currently undergoing trials and will thereafter be considered to be submitted for registration. P.O. Box 159, Oudtshoorn, 6620, South Africa • Tel: 044 203 9800 • Tel: 018 293 1233 • Tel: 010 140 0839 • Tel: 012 252 6849 • www.seedmarketing.co.za
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13
According to the latest population growth rates, East Africa (38%) is at the top of the list, followed by West (23%), Central (18%), North (12%) and Southern Africa (9%). Urbanisation growth rates are the highest in Nigeria, Ethiopia and Egypt. Mwenechanya explained the momentous impact of urbanisation on cities in Africa. “In most African cities land is running out. Across Zambia land surrounding cities is converted into residential land which means there is no fresher produce to feed the city. The lack of availability of fresh produce gave new impetus to the development of several retail grocery stores and supermarkets. Fresh produce will drive market development and investment in African cities.”
Food spending With more than 60% of Africa’s 1,291 billion people still living in rural areas, there is a market to exploit. Fresh fruit and vegetable consumption are fast rising, especially in urban centres due to rapid urbanisation and an increase in healthier or contemporary eating habits. Current statistics indicate that Africa is spending US$35 billion on food imports. Furthermore, expenditure on food accounts for two-thirds of most Africans’ budgets. Although consumer purchasing power is still relatively low, there is a young population looking for jobs and opportunities and things to buy to actualise themselves. According to Mwenechanya, Africa’s young generation and the demand for modern or alternative eating habits will increasingly drive consumer markets. Mwenechanya further said Africa should not be ignored as a dynamic player in the food, and in particular, the fresh produce market sector. “The middle class is a rapidly growing sector in Africa and, along with the growth and reach of the smartphone industry and internet-like services they are catching up to the rest of the world very quickly. The number of people owning cell
porridge or cooked maize meal) is being replaced or supplemented by the younger generation for modern food alternatives such as fresh fruit. Interest in fresh produce is growing across the region and there is a huge campaign for locally grown food.
Post-harvest losses
Mr Cheyo Mwenechanya of FNB Zambia.
phones is growing rapidly. Thirteen million Zambians own cell phones in a population of sixteen million in Zambia. Of the thirteen million, approximately 4 million people already own smartphones.”
Changing consumer tastes Changing consumer tastes and behaviour are driving growth in the fresh produce industry. “The middle class eat food with their eyes and with emotion (feelings). Because of this they are changing their tastes and preference for food items. Access to information changes how they look at things, including food. A good lifestyle is becoming more important and they are changing food buying patterns to make provision for a healthier and/or trendy approach. They catch up very quickly,” Mwenechanya explained. In Zambia, traditional “nshima” (better known in South Africa as pap/
Primary and secondary agriculture boast vast opportunities in Africa. It is estimated that over 50% of food produce in Africa is lost because of post-harvest losses. With massive post-harvest losses, the agricultural supply-chain in Africa is in dire need of new investment for the development of modern storage, processing and packaging facilities. In this sense, fresh produce trade in Africa boasts greater opportunities than ever before, but challenges such as workforce productivity and efficiency, high operational costs, access and affordability of credit legislation and property rights, lack of infrastructure and data systems or management information systems are also impacting on growth prospects. Report
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Rootstocks: Build your crop on a strong foundation The first recorded attempts to graft vegetables originate from Korea and Japan in the 1920’s when watermelons were grafted onto gourd rootstocks. Since then this practise has been extensively explored and refined.
T
he most common advantages of using rootstocks include: resistance to soil-pathogens, increase in yield, ability to manage plant growth, superior vigour and greater tolerance to temperature and salt stresses. These benefits are attributed to their resistance to soil borne diseases, stronger root system with increased water and nutrient uptake and tolerance to other unfavourable soil conditions. Indeed grafting provides higher fruit yield and excellent fruit traits in cucumbers.
A testimonial to Syngenta’s superior performance: Jan & Ilze Lochner: Lochner Bdy; Trawal, Western Cape: “For the past 3 years we planted in soil and grafted IMANOL on Syngenta’s
rootstock STRONG TOSA. We got better plant continuance up to the end and achieved excellent production results in terms of its fruit quality and yield per plant. Excellent technical support by InteliSeed’s seed specialist to make the project a success on our farm.” Strong Tosa is Syngenta’s NEW F1
Imanol A 100% female parthenocarpic hybrid cucumber suitable for culture in PGH. Features/benefits • Ideal for winter production • Vigorous plant with very good productivity • Produces uniform cylindrical shaped fruits with thin necks Disease resistance: HR: Cca / Ccu, IR: Gc / Px
Bomber An early hybrid with medium-long fruits, ideally suited for active greenhouses or under plastic in warm months. Features/benefits • Ideal for summer production • Strong and vigorous plant producing straight cylindrical fruit • Excellent disease resistance Disease resistance: HR: Cca / Ccu / Px / CVYV, IR: Gc / CMV / CYSDV
Syngenta South Africa (Pty) Limited Private Bag X60, Halfway House, 1685. Tel. (011) 541 4000. www.syngenta.co.za. © Syngenta Ag, 2000. Copyright of this document is reserved. All unauthorized copying is prohibited.
InteliSeed Office Contact Details Tel: +27 11 660 7481 | Fax: +27 11 660 7559 | www.intelichem.co.za We have exercised the utmost care in compiling this information in this report. The data should, however, be handled by the user in his/her own knowledge and experience of local circumstances. The terms used here refer to the known and described physios of certain pathotypes. However, other unknown and/or non-described disease physios may exist. We cannot, therefore, accept any liability for varieties listed in this report turning out to be non-resistant or non-tolerant to such pathotypes, whatever the reason. In case of doubt we recommend carrying out a small-scale trial production in order to test local growing conditions. *variety not registered but compliant to guidelines for import and unlisted varieties.
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rootstock for cucumber, watermelon and melon grafting. It is a C. maxima x C. moschata intraspecific hybrid with the following resistance package: Disease HR: Co: 1 / Fon: 1 / Resistance Fom: 0, 1, 1-2, 2 IR: Fon: 0, 2 Strong Tosa is very tolerant to low temperatures and visibly increases fruit dimensions by 10-20%. It also has excellent vigour and gives your crop the legs it needs to win in terms of profitability.
Disclaimer Syngenta Vegetables Seeds has exercised reasonable care and skill in compiling this content. All resistances quoted refer only to strains of races or pathotypes indicated on the varieties. Other pathogen races or pest biotypes capable of overcoming the resistance may exist or emerge. Syngenta Vegetables Seeds uses highly elaborate analytical methods to verify specific variety resistances. Specificity of pests or pathogens may vary over time and space and depends on environmental factors. In order to maximize the efficiency of a resistance, it is highly recommended to mix different ways of control such as growing conditions, plant protection products and genetic resistance as part of an integrated crop management. The latest International Seed Federation (I.S.F.) terms and definitions describing the reaction of plants to pests and pathogens and to abiotic stresses for the vegetable seed industry are hereby incorporated by reference. The meaning of such terms in any related statement made by Syngenta shall be as provided by the I.S.F. If Syngenta adopts a proper term to define the reaction of plants to pests and pathogens and to abiotic stresses, Syngenta shall inform the customers of such term and of its definition. All data in this site are intended for general guidance only and the user should apply it in accordance with his own knowledge and experience of local conditions. In case of doubt we recommend that a small scale trial production be carried out to determine how local conditions may affect the variety. Syngenta Vegetables Seeds cannot accept any liability in connection with this content.
greenhouses I shade net I hydroponics I aquaponics
NEW TECHNOLOGY
Robotic pollinator is like huge bee with wheels and arm We should protect bees and their extraordinary pollinating powers. Unfortunately, humans are killing off bees in staggering numbers – destroying their habitats and poisoning them with pesticides. And at the same time, the global population is skyrocketing, which means if we can’t get our act together, we have to somehow feed more people with fewer pollinators.
I
n a greenhouse at West Virginia University, a machine called the BrambleBee is learning to roll around pollinating blackberry bushes, knocking their flowers around (blackberry flowers self-pollinate, so bees or robots just have to jostle them to spread around the pollen). It’s no replacement for bees, but in a world with too many humans and not enough pollinators, robots like this could help feed our kind. The BrambleBee works not unlike a self-driving car. First it uses lidar, spraying lasers to build a 3-D map of the greenhouse so it can find its way around. For the moment, it looks for QR codes as a stand-in for flowers, but the researchers are close to getting it to snap photos of actual flowers. After traipsing through the rows, it then plans its next pass to reach as many flowers
with its arm as possible. Next, once it’s positioned itself in front of a plant, another camera on that arm will make an even higherresolution 3-D map of the crop. If Bramble Bee deter mines a flower is ready for pollination, it will use a small 3-D printed brush of
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In a world with too many humans and not enough pollinators, robots like the BrambleBee could help.
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Water quality: pH and alkalinity:
How this affects the greenhouse grower
Alkalinity and pH are two important factors in determining the suitability of water for irrigating plants. pH is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in water or other liquids.
I
n general, water for irrigation should have a pH between 5.0 and 7.0. Water with pH below 7.0 is termed “acidic” and water with pH above 7.0 is termed “basic”; pH 7.0 is “neutral”. Sometimes the term “alkaline” is used instead of “basic” and often “alkaline” is confused with “alkalinity”. Alkalinity is a measure of the water’s ability to neutralize acidity. An alkalinity test measures the level of bicarbonates, carbonates, and hydroxides in water and test results are generally expressed as “ppm of calcium carbonate (CaCO3)”. The desirable range f or irrigation water is 0 to 100 ppm calcium carbonate. Levels between 30 and 60 ppm are considered optimum for most plants. Irrigation water tests should always include both pH and alkalinity tests. A pH test by itself is not an indication of
How clean is the water entering the reservoir from the Municipal or District dam or river nearby?
alkalinity. Water with high alkalinity (i.e., high levels of bicarbonates or carbonates) always has a pH value ÷7 or above, but water with high pH doesn’t always have
high alkalinity. This is important because high alkalinity exerts the most significant effects on growing medium fertility and plant nutrition. 23
Greenhouse economics for the new investor
into greenhouse farming
Invest too much and you may not be able to sleep at night; invest too little and you may not be able to reach your production goals. Balancing the technological solution against the income generated by the greenhouse makes or breaks a greenhouse operation. Though many technological solutions are available, the solutions might not always be appropriate.
I
n greenhouse economics, the factors of what-, how- and where to grow come together. This, with the aim to obtain a feasible return on investment quickly and to create a successful business for the long term is necessary. Tapping into market demands by crop selection, doing it on a scale which anticipates on growth and also keeping production costs as low as possible. The largest operational costs of a greenhouse are energy, human resources and of course natural recourses. Operational requirements are defined well in advance of each given greenhouse project. With this approach, an investigation of local costs and market prices gives us a good insight in the potential of the greenhouse. This way, we take advantage of the local situation, creating a competitive advantage.
point for every greenhouse project. Because the investment possibilities and operational requirements have already been sorted out in great detail, only local costs market prices are yet to be acquired in order to sketch a good financial overview of the greenhouse project. This overview is of great value to assess the greenhouse investment and to increase its financial feasibility. Strengths and weaknesses can be derived from the data which allows the project to be fine-tuned in order to create a good business opportunity. The feasibility study of the greenhouse makes for a perfect foundation to either write or have a bankable business plan written. The business plan forms a complete financial and operational plan for the greenhouse project for internal use, but also to acquire capital.
Feasibility Studies and Business Plans
What to Grow
Feasibility studies are a good starting
The choice of crop is a crucial factor for
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the economic feasibility and success of a commercial greenhouse operation. The revenue of cultivated crop is responsible for returning on the investment of the greenhouse and its operational costs. Crop varieties, suitable for greenhouse cultivation, therefore differentiate themselves from open-field varieties. In greenhouse cultivation, crops are categorized into Vegetables, Flowers, Potted plants, Herbs & Leafy Greens and in Soft Fruits. This categorization is based on the crop characteristics but also on the applied cultivation method. Tomato is the single most popular crop to be cultivated in greenhouses and comes in numerous varieties. Choices between truss- cocktail- and cherry tomatoes can be made to target niche markets. The same applies for all ornamental crops, where the variety is the result of decades of selective breeding. DG
Robotic pollinator
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flexible polyurethane bristles on the end of its arm to gently stroke the blossom. This transfers pollen from the male reproductive organs, called anthers, to the pistils, where pollination commences. The robot will even remember what flowers it already hit, so it can make multiple runs as the
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Water quality
plants mature in the greenhouse. If BrambleBee can manage a manipulation as delicate as pollination, theoretically it could tend to the plants in other ways, like using a different instrument to cut away unhealthy flowers. But just as beekeepers rent out their hives to farmers to kickstart pollination,
so too might robots like BrambleBee travel between farms to lend a hand, or labour full-time in greenhouses. Maybe BrambleBee could work alongside bees with less disruption compared to, say, tiny pollinating drones that might end up injuring bees. By: Matt Simon
using municipal water, including water originating from reservoirs where poor management is prevalent.
limestone may be inadequate for some plants. Moderately alkaline water could be beneficial as a source of extra Ca and Mg for crops prone to Ca and Mg deficiencies (e.g., poinsettia).
Of greater concern is the case where water having both high pH and high alkalinity is used for irrigation. One result is that the pH of the growing medium may increase significantly with time. This increase may be so large that normal lime rates must be reduced by as much as 50%. In effect the water acts as a dilute solution of limestone!
Testing the pH in a greenhouse.
High pH and High Alkalinity Effects on Plant Nutrition Potential adverse effects; In most cases irrigating with water having a “high pH” (7) causes no problems as long as the alkalinity is low. This water will probably have little effect on growing medium pH because it has little ability to neutralize acidity. This situation is typical for many growers
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I I r40.00
The problem is most serious when plants are grown in small containers because small volumes of soil are poorly buffered to pH change. Therefore, the combination of high pH and high alkalinity is of particular concern in plug seedling trays. Trace element deficiencies and imbalances of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) can result from irrigating with high alkalinity water. Potential beneficial effects; For some greenhouse operators, water with moderate levels of alkalinity (30-60 ppm) can be an important source of Ca and Mg. Most water soluble fertilizers do not supply Ca and Mg. Also, the Ca and Mg from
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Other Effects of High pH and High Alkalinity In addition to nutritional disorders of plants, water with high alkalinity can cause other problems. Bicarbonates and carbonates can clog the nozzles of pesticide sprayers and drip tube irrigation systems with obvious effects. The activity of some pesticides, floral preservatives, and growth regulators is markedly reduced by high alkalinity. When some pesticides are mixed with water they must acidify the solution to be completely effective. Additional acidifier may be needed to neutralize all of the alkalinity. To determine if a chemical is affected by high alkalinity, carefully review the product’s label. Unfortunately this potentially important information is not always printed on the label, so considerable extra effort may be necessary to find the information. A call to the manufacturer will probably be needed for most chemicals. By: N Mattson
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GreenhousehydrOpONicS Chat ...
Shade Net
FlOWerS
prOdUce
greeNhOUSeS
Setting the Standard page 4
chrysanthemum: hallo Future! page 10
Fresh produce Opportunities page 12
greenhouse economics page 22
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