Dear Farmer,

In the rhythm of farming life, trees might seem like an obstacle or just another source of firewood. But before you reach for that axe or chainsaw, let’s pause for a moment to think beyond the immediate benefit. Cutting down a tree isn’t just removing wood from the landscape—it’s removing life, stability, and a connection to the ecosystem that supports your farm and your future.

Choosing the most suitable tillage system for a specific farming operation is a critical management decision. Historically, the intensive use of mouldboard ploughs, discs, harrows, and cultivators was the dominant method for crop establishment and weed control. However, advances in herbicides and tillage equipment have expanded the options available to farmers.

When calves are weaned, they face a critical period of adjustment. Weaning marks the end of milk consumption and often involves separation from the dam. This sudden change in diet and loss of maternal security can lead to post-weaning stress, affecting the calf's growth, health, and productivity. Here’s how farmers can minimize stress and ensure calves develop into strong, productive animals.

Moisture stress is one of the leading challenges farmers face, impacting crop productivity and profitability. When crops experience water deficiency, it can result in either temporary wilting or permanent wilting, depending on the severity and duration of the stress.

Climatic Requirements

• Sorghum thrives in areas with rainfall between 300 and 900 mm annually.

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Rabbit breeding is a fascinating yet intricate process that requires an in-depth understanding of reproductive cycles, gestation periods, and practical management practices. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rabbit farmer, mastering these elements is key to maximizing productivity and maintaining healthy breeding stock.

When you spend as much time with livestock as most keepers do, you develop an innate sense of what’s normal—and what’s not. Recognizing the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of health and disease in your animals is critical to ensuring their wellbeing and productivity. Whether you're managing a herd of cows, a flock of goats, or a small poultry farm, understanding these indicators can save you time, money, and heartache.

By Learnmore Chiposo | Supra Feeds

High environmental temperatures, often coupled with high relative humidity, are common during the summer season. These conditions can lead to heat stress in layers, which profoundly affects overall flock performance. Significant losses, including high mortality and reduced egg production, are observed when temperatures exceed 33°C. Even mild heat stress, often overlooked, can subtly impact flock performance, leading to losses in egg production and shell quality.

The Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe, in collaboration with the Department of Civil Protection, has issued an advisory on Severe Tropical Storm Chido, the third tropical system of the 2024/2025 cyclone season.

Farm management is the backbone of agricultural success. It blends economics, finance, and practical skills to ensure farming operations are efficient, sustainable, and profitable. From planning and resource allocation to marketing and risk management, effective farm management relies on several foundational pillars. This guide dives into these essential elements, providing actionable insights for farmers seeking long-term success.

Purchasing feeder cattle is a crucial step for any cattle feeding operation. To maximize profitability, you must carefully consider where to buy, when to buy, and how to calculate costs. Here’s a simplified guide to help you make informed decisions.

By Learnmore Chiposo | Supra Feeds

Summer brings high temperatures, which can cause broilers to suffer from heat or summer stress. This condition arises when there is an imbalance between heat production and heat loss in the birds' bodies. If left unchecked, heat stress can lead to significant losses, including poor growth, low feed consumption, high feed conversion ratios (FCR), and increased mortality. These challenges are exacerbated in high-humidity environments.

Feather pecking and cannibalism are persistent issues in laying hen production systems, often leading to significant losses. Cannibalism typically begins with pecking at fresh wounds on a hen’s body, such as those on the back or excretory channels. Initially, this behavior may seem non-aggressive, appearing as part of the normal feeding behavior.

Choosing the right farm enterprise is a critical decision that impacts the profitability and sustainability of your agricultural venture. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting, evaluating the following factors ensures you make an informed choice.

Dear Farmer,

Every season, we sow our seeds with hope. We toil under the sun, water the crops with care, and dream of a better harvest—a better life. But have you ever paused to ask yourself: What does “better” mean? And when is it enough?

Zero tillage, also known as no-tillage or chemical tillage, is a revolutionary agricultural technique that minimizes soil disturbance, offering significant benefits to farmers and the environment. This advanced farming method is gaining traction worldwide, especially in areas prone to soil erosion and where the cost of traditional tillage is prohibitive. But what exactly is zero tillage, and how does it work? Let’s delve into the details.

Harare, December 4, 2024 – Zimbabwean farmers are grappling with relentless dry weather and intense heat, as the Meteorological Services Department (MSD) warns of continued hot conditions in the days ahead.

Soil Organic Matter (SOM) is a vital component of soil, influencing its physical structure, nutrient availability, and capacity to support plant life. Derived from plant and animal residues at various stages of decomposition, SOM is integral to maintaining soil fertility and sustainability. This article explores its components, benefits, and strategies for effective management.

Maize farming is a cornerstone of food security and income generation for many farmers. By implementing the right practices at every stage—land preparation, planting, fertilizing, and management—you can achieve high yields and improve your livelihood. Here’s an essential guide to thriving maize production.

Harare, Zimbabwe - November 21, 2024

Zimbabwe has taken a significant step toward combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing by signing the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Charter for the establishment of the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre (MCSCC). The landmark ceremony, held at Rainbow Towers in Harare, cements Zimbabwe's position as the 13th SADC Member State to accede to the Charter, showcasing its commitment to sustainable fisheries management.