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 the picturesque Mossel Bay, Johan faces the challenge of producing a winter crop amidst the unpredictability of summer rain. His journey illustrates the delicate dance he orchestrates with nature to conserve every precious drop of moisture. In a region where water is a scarce resource, Johan's dedication to maximising every bit of moisture resonates as a true testament to the resilience of conservation agriculture.Of course, conservation agriculture is not just moonlight and roses. We delve into the reality of the journey. Johan’s experiences underscore the complexities of implementing conservation agriculture, dispelling any notions of an effortless path. His story unveils the hard work, the challenges faced, and the undeniable rewards that emerge when you commit to a practice deeply rooted in the balance between man and nature.Hailing from an area blessed with more summer rain, Johan’s realisation that only through conservation agriculture can he truly conserve every droplet is a pivotal moment. The unexpected effects of removing sheep from the equation further illuminate the multifaceted nature of his journey.

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 led him to explore realms of farming that were once distant dreams. With a particular focus on variable fertilisation and precision tools, Pieter showcases the ways in which modern technology can transform even the smallest details of farming, resulting in more efficient resource utilization and sustainable practices.The episode also underlines Pieter’s role as a torchbearer for a new era of farming. His farm has expanded enormously, not merely to increase production, but to accommodate the surge of potential that technology has to offer. However, Pieter is candid about the expense associated with these advancements, serving as a reminder that while technology can be a game-changer, it also comes with its own set of challenges.

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.Piet Gildenhuys opens up about his roller-coaster journey, sharing how he navigated those early years that were almost consumed by adversity. His experiences with a rocky start, swift relocation, and a string of challenges might have deterred many, but his passion for the land and his indomitable spirit propelled him forward.And then, there was the turning point. An unexpected trip to Australia with Jack Human changed the game entirely. Equipped with newfound knowledge and state-of-the-art implements, Piet’s farming journey took a decisive turn. But that’s not all – brace yourselves for a fascinating twist – Piet’s role in smuggling the first canola seeds into South Africa. This revelation is nothing short of ground-breaking, underscoring the audacity and vision that fuels innovation in agriculture.

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 grandfather’s livestock-focused approach to his father’s pioneering efforts, Jacobus has transitioned to exclusively cultivating crops with unshakable faith in the power of conservation agriculture.

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 not just as a resource, but as a delicate ecosystem that requires careful nurturing.His underground “livestock” are earthworms, and his focus extends to the intricacies of cation balance and soil biology. CD’s story is one of passion and purpose, as he walks us through his profound understanding that those who care for nature reap sustainable profits.The episode also unveils CD’s journey of practicing conservation agriculture in a challenging terrain – up the mountain. His commitment to sustainable practices didn’t waver, even in the face of geographical adversity. CD’s tale is a testament to the boundless potential of conservation agriculture, even in the most unconventional settings.

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 to experiment. As a passionate advocate of conservation agriculture, Dirk understands that innovation is the heartbeat of progress. He’s not afraid to push boundaries, from cultivating various cash crops to dabbling in cover crops and even experimenting with the likes of cilantro. With a deep understanding of the intricacies, he believes that conservation agriculture provides farmers with the flexibility to embrace experimentation, leading to breakthroughs that revolutionize farming practices.  The second theme, rotation system and Livestock, takes us into the heart of Dirk’s integrated approach. On his farm, he has masterfully woven together a tapestry of cash crops, cover crops, and livestock. Through a meticulous rotation system, Dirk attains harmony between diverse elements of his farm, enhancing soil health, and ensuring the sustainability of his practices.

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 you by SSK and Food for Mzansi.

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 large seeds to equipment and land preparation, we discuss minimal mechanical soil disturbance as one of the core pillars of conservation agriculture.Proudly brought to you by SSK and Food for Mzansi.

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 you by SSK and Food for Mzansi.

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 Johann Strauss explore some of the challenges and opportunities for expansion, and also discuss the country’s progress against global conservation agriculture leaders.Proudly brought to you by SSK and Food for Mzansi.