Posts by Jandrie Klopper
A hyper-localised climate intelligence network is transforming potato production
Potato production plays a key role in South Africa’s food supply, yet producers are confronted with unpredictable weather, rising costs, and ongoing disease risks. To tackle these challenges, many farming…
Read MoreOnsekere tye verg ’n nuwe benadering tot verhandeling
Sedert die konflik in die Midde-Ooste opgevlam het, kry aartappelprodusente winsgewendheid en kontantvloei ’n stewige knou. Brandstof- en kunsmispryse het die hoogte ingeskiet namate spanning in die streek oliepryse opgejaag…
Read MoreThe detective work behind indentifying PepRSV in South Africa
Identifying the causes of defects or disease symptoms in plants is not always straightforward. This also applied to the challenge of identifying pepper ringspot virus (PepRSV). In March 2019, a…
Read MoreWestern Free State cultivar trial under irrigation at Bultfontein in 2025
The Western Free State is a major potato production region where approximately 6 871 ha of potatoes (15.1% of the country’s potatoes) are planted by 38 producers. The most prominent…
Read MoreSouthwestern Free State cultivar trial under irrigation at Petrusburg in 2025/26
The Southwestern Free State production region accounts for around 1.86% of the country’s commercial potato production on 954 ha. The most prominent cultivars produced as part of this region’s main…
Read MoreThe role of herbicides in defending crops
Weeds pose a constant threat to crop plants, not only when they grow alongside crops, but also in the absence of plants through seeds in the soil seed bank. The…
Read MoreCHIPS May/June 2026
Topical • Aktueel / Regulatory • Regulatories10 Potatoes SA Congress 2026 programme13 Nuwe dryfkrag vir innovasie by Aartappels SA14 Sako hou jaarvergadering16 OVS Groentoer kweek kennis en innovasie Industry information…
Read MoreProkon News
During February and March 2026, a total of 15 potato-producing regions, as well as non-producing suppliers, delivered potatoes to fresh produce markets nationwide. Average percentage downgraded: 15.46%. Total number of…
Read MoreDeductions from employees’ compensation
One of the most common violations identified by inspectors from the Department of Employment and Labour during farm visits is the incorrect deduction from employees’ compensation. Sectoral Determination 13, as…
Read MorePotato ice cream and beyond
When it comes to culinary versatility, few ingredients can compete with the humble spud. This starchy superstar has outgrown its traditional role as merely a side dish. Nowadays, potatoes are…
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