Farming With Nature

In this concluding episode, our spotlight is on Johan Muller, a farmer whose journey epitomises the indomitable spirit of conservation agriculture. As we unravel his tale, two distinct themes emerge, each offering profound insights into the intricate tapestry of sustainable farming. Producing a winter crop with summer rain is the first theme that paints the backdrop of Johan’s story. Situated near...

In this episode, we’re about to uncover the tale of a farmer who’'s harnessed the power of precision agriculture to unleash the full potential of his land. I’m thrilled to introduce you to Pieter de Jager , an embodiment of the new generation of farmers who are redefining the way we cultivate and care for our Earth. His fervour for precision agriculture and embracing cutting-edge technologies has...

In this episode, we’re in for an exhilarating journey as we explore the trials, tribulations, and triumphant moments that shaped the path of farmer Piet Gildenhuys . From the first challenging years on what he aptly calls the “plain of despair” to the serendipitous discovery of canola, Piet’s tale is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of regenerative agriculture. P...

This episode is a testament to the beginning of a conservation farming revolution. But there’s a unique twist – we’re focusing on conservation agriculture without livestock. A farmer who’s making waves in this domain is none other than Jacobus Human . His journey has come full circle, with his father, Jack Human, having kick-started the conservation agriculture movement decades ago. From his grand...

In this episode, our spotlight shines on a visionary whose commitment to conservation agriculture was the only path forward. Introducing CD du Toit , a qualified soil expert who has embraced a journey of transformation driven by two compelling themes. The episode introduces us to CD’s unshakable conviction in conservation agriculture. For him, there was never an alternative path. He sees the land...

In this episode, we’re about to embark on a journey guided by innovation, experimentation, and the transformative potential of conservation agriculture. Our spotlight is on none other than farmer Dirk van Papendorp , a visionary who’s harnessed the power of freedom to experiment within the realm of farming.     Dirk's story is illuminated by two compelling themes. The first: The freedom...

What are the disadvantages of conservation agriculture? And how sustainable is conversation tillage? In this episode, Andrew Ardington, Henk de Beer and Dr Johann Strauss take a hard look at the limits of conservation agriculture to overcome low crop yields in South Africa. We discuss both failed and successful experiments and empower farmers with practical tips to implement? Proudly brought to yo...

In this episode, Andrew Ardington, Henk de Beer and Rens Smit explore the principles of direct seeding or planting. In conservation tillage, this is synonymous with no- till farming, zero tillage, no-tillage, and direct drilling. It involves growing crops without mechanical seedbed preparation and with minimal soil disturbance since the harvest of the previous crop. From the precise placing of lar...

Many South African grain producers remain reluctant to integrate cover crops in rainfed systems since cover crops replace cash crops leading to financial losses. Andrew Ardington and Henk de Beer discuss how cover crop mixtures and the utilisation of cover crops truly affect soil quality, the quality and quantity of the mulch as well as wheat produced in the subsequent years. Proudly brought to yo...

It is estimated that on average, less than one percent of South Africa’s cultivated land is under conservation agriculture. This is despite major efforts to promote conservation tillage among smallholder and large-scale farmers. For many, crop growing remain synonymous with ploughing, as good agronomic practice has meant, in the past, keeping fields clean. Andrew Ardington, Henk de Beer and Dr Joh...

In this episode, Andrew Ardington and Henk de Beer explore the origin of conservation tillage in South Africa. While celebrating the local pioneers, they also dive into the basic principles of conservation agriculture, namely minimum soil disturbance, diversity through crop rotation and permanent organic soil cover Proudly brought to you by SSK and Food for Mzansi.

Immerse yourself in the captivating and transformative world of conservation agriculture with our podcast. Born from the remarkable journey of pioneering farmers in Southern Cape in South Africa, we delve into the practice of turning barren “desert lands” into flourishing agricultural hotbeds. Experience agriculture in a whole new light, where we work in harmony with nature instead of exerting dom...