Top tips for farmers

July 2025

The harvest may be over, but there are still many after-harvest tasks that need attention. Remember, thorough planning is key to a successful farming operation.

When the harvest is done
If you have already marketed your grain, follow up on the payment. Graeme Engelbrecht, regional development manager at the Dundee Office, reminds farmers of the importance of honouring their financial obligations. Pay back your loans and then invest your profit into your farming enterprise. It’s better to grow your business, than spend the money on luxuries.

Graeme also advises that farmers who want to store their maize and market it at a later stage must carefully calculate the storage costs against the ‘possible’ later price. If you have your own storage facility, ensure you also adhere to the requirements of safe storage.

‘Farmers must ensure that the harvested material is clean before marketing it or storing the product,’ says Jerry Mthombothi, regional development manager at PGP’s Mbombela office. ‘The storage facility must also be cleaned and make sure that no water or air can get in.’ Jerry also recommends the use of phostoxin tablets to prevent weevil-infested maize. 

Prepare for the new season
Winter is also the best time for farmers to start preparing the fields for the new season by taking soil samples says Shadrack Mbele, Grain SA Board member for Region 31. Send in your soil samples early to avoid laboratory backlogs.

This important step can help you tailor your fertiliser applications to meet the specific needs for optimal production. Any soil acidity must be rectified through timely lime application which will boost fertiliser efficiency and enhance nutrient mobility for improved yields. (Read the article on page 8 for more on this topic.)

Rather safe than sorry
In winter, dry grass and strong winds make veld fires a real threat. Maintain your property by trimming trees, removing dead leaves and debris. Always have emergency numbers handy of someone you can contact for assistance in case of a fire. Be aware of different evacuation routes to leave the area if a fire spreads to your farm. Also plan for what to do with your livestock in the event of a fire. 

Publication: July 2025

Section: Pula/Imvula

Author: COMPILED BY LOUISE KUNZ, ASSISTANT EDITOR: PULA