The color of the soil above the water table, as observed during the SOC information day. (Photo: Provided)
More than 150 farmers and stakeholders in the industry attended the Sandgrond Development Committee’s (SOK) information day on the farm Springboklaagte this week.
The program emphasized practical solutions for sustainable farming, with a focus on better decision-making in a challenging economic and production environment.
Rain during the information day on Springbok Laagte. (Photo: Provided)
Participants studied soil profiles in the field with observations down to the water table and were informed about key challenges such as nematodes and sclerotinia. Dr. Lisa Rothmann from the University of the Free State’s Department of Plant Science and Plant Pathology, emphasized the importance of the right planting time and cultivar choice as critical production factors.
Sheila Storey from Nemlab offered further insight into the role of soil health and the management of nematodes within a sustainable production system.
One of the profile holes showed root development and the effects of different fertilization. (Photo: Provided)
During a panel discussion on rising input costs and pressure on commodity prices, producers were encouraged to manage risks better and plan investments in fertilising, cultivar selection and production intensity more strategically.
“It is important to know where your yield will be best. Should you rather produce intensively with full fertilization on a smaller piece of land, or farm less over a larger area? These decisions must now be planned more thoroughly and strategically,” said Danie Minnaar, grain producer and owner of Springboklaagte.
A demonstration during dr. Lisa Rothmann’s conversation. (Photo: Provided)
The information day equipped producers with insights into soil management, pest and disease management as well as cost discipline, with a view to sustainable returns over the longer term.
The information day was supported by sponsors including Bayer, Maize Trust, Pannar, Omnia, Senwes and NviroTek Laboratories.