The Guava Producers’ Association of South Africa expects production in the Western Cape to reach approximately 25 300t this season, which is slightly lower than last season’s 25 955t, but higher than the industry average of about 24 700t.
The impact on production of the cold front that hit the Western Cape from mid-June is still uncertain, according to Jacques Jordaan, CEO of the association. Speaking at the association’s annual general meeting held recently in Simondium, he said that the cold had caused roots and fruit to stop growing, and this could affect fruit size and quality.
Based on feedback given by various farmers, the season had started later than usual in most regions, and more than three weeks late in Kraaifontein and Paarl. Although the season was not that late in Wellington, guavas in Wellington and Porterville seemed to ripen more slowly than usual, leaving farmers wondering whether this would result in a large quantity of fruit ripening simultaneously.
Jordaan pointed out that the area under production had declined from 653ha in 2017 to 487ha in 2022, and 462ha in 2023. Yield, however, had increased from 43t/ha in 2017 to 53t/ha in 2022 thanks to improved efficiencies.
Farmers at the meeting asked for the age of trees to be included in the association’s statistics in future, as guava trees could produce commercial yields for over 80 years.
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の July 14, 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Farmer's Weekly の July 14, 2023 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、8,500 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Ancient Chinese horses: how are they related to modern breeds?
Archaeology of ancient graves containing horse skulls points to China's indigenous Jinjiang as a genetically unique breed, says Dr Mac.
In it for the win and so much more
The long-awaited GWM Tank 300 HEV has arrived. This feature-packed hybrid electric vehicle is the SUV of the future, writes Gary Wium.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 7
It is one thing to have a good product, but we need to bring its outstanding features to the attention of the purchaser, writes Bill Kerr.
A comparison between Phase C and Phase D growth tests
Melville Ferreira and Freek Botes, researchers at the Agricultural Research Council's Animal Production Insititute in Armoedsvlakte, explain why performance testing is important for herd progress.
Changing the potential of your soil
By building soil carbon levels, farmers can improve the resilience of their crops, reduce the use of chemical pesticides and fertiliser, and buffer their crops against extreme weather. Glenneis Kriel reports.
A smart farm springs up and empowers locals
An experimental 'smart farm' is taking root at the doorstep of Gauteng's only Big Five game reserve and could become a blueprint for other socially and environmentally conscious farms in the future, writes Tanya Faber.
Proactive care helps to improve longevity of cows
Glenneis Kriel reports on the recent South African Cow Longevity Conference, where it was said that food security was the major concern at the moment.
Fresh market sales remain stable despite inflation
Cost fluctuations are a concern, but the potato market stands firm, writes Glenneis Kriel.
Ear implants can backtrack diseased cattle
However hard it hits the cattle owner to learn that there is unsuspected disease in their herd, it is to their advantage to know of it as soon as possible to prevent its further spread, as well as taking measures to eradicate the trouble where possible.
SA's electricity crisis: a dim legacy
South Africa's electricity crisis is the result of a series of failures over the past 30 years, says Mark Swilling, distinguished professor of Sustainable Development at Stellenbosch University.
