AmberMacs Expo 2025

Following the success of the third Macadamia Expo, the fourth Amber Macs Macadamia Expo will be hosted at its factory premises in White River on February 13 and 14.

Attendees are encouraged to mark their diaries to explore all the latest advancements in macadamia farming and processing. According to the managing director of Amber Macs Pty Ltd, Philip Moufarrige, it’s been a challenging couple of years for macs, with a gradual recovery from a price drop back in 2022, and although it’s still too early to tell for sure, 2025 looks like it’s going to be a better year of prices for growers.

This is said against a backdrop of strong demand for kernel from European customers, but tempered by the unpredictability of the Chinese market and indeterminate demand from the USA. Warehouses are nevertheless soon to run dry, so orders will be coming in strong as the season gets under way, with South Korea and Japan also increasing their annual orders, and India, the new kid on the block, increasing their appetite for the world’s best nut.

Speakers this year include Larne Auerswald and Michael Bufé who will make technical aspects of leaf and soil monitoring practical and accessible. Schalk Schoeman will update attendees on integrated management options for macadamia pests, Inge Austin on optimising pollination, and the esteemed economist, Dawie Roodt, will present an update on the macroeconomic situation in South Africa.

The news is expected to be more upbeat than last year, especially given the end of load-shedding since July 2024 (that nobody seems to be talking about). Juan Winter will present microeconomic trends for macs, while Ken Treloar will show how remote sensing and leveraging AI can help monitor macadamia yields. Corné Kruger will reflect on the results of his last two years experimenting with tree health and resiliency while keeping an eye on the budget, and Jako Pieterse will show how to create self-regulating regenerative farming practices.

Finally, Dorran Bungay will close on Friday afternoon with the importance of rigorous post-harvest practices to illustrate that ‘quality macadamias are no accident’.

As always, there will be plenty of new exhibitors, updated technology and agricultural practices, lots of food and drink, and some Afrikaans music from Pieter Smith and rock music from our friends, Voodoo Kudu.

And of course, there will be a stand for Giraf Macadamia Milk, which, if you haven’t tried yet, will blow your socks off. See you on February 13 and 14 at Amber Macs White River. Following the success of the third Macadamia Expo, the fourth Amber Macs Macadamia Expo will be hosted at its factory premises in White River on February 13 and 14.

Attendees are encouraged to mark their diaries to explore all the latest advancements in macadamia farming and processing. According to the managing director of Amber Macs Pty Ltd, Philip Moufarrige, it’s been a challenging couple of years for macs, with a gradual recovery from a price drop back in 2022, and although it’s still too early to tell for sure, 2025 looks like it’s going to be a better year of prices for growers.

This is said against a backdrop of strong demand for kernel from European customers, but tempered by the unpredictability of the Chinese market and indeterminate demand from the USA.

Warehouses are nevertheless soon to run dry, so orders will be coming in strong as the season gets under way, with South Korea and Japan also increasing their annual orders, and India, the new kid on the block, increasing their appetite for the world’s best nut. Speakers this year include Larne Auerswald and Michael Bufé who will make technical aspects of leaf and soil monitoring practical and accessible. Schalk Schoeman will update attendees on integrated management options for macadamia pests, Inge Austin on optimising pollination, and the esteemed economist, Dawie Roodt, will present an update on the macroeconomic situation in South Africa.

The news is expected to be more upbeat than last year, especially given the end of load-shedding since July 2024 (that nobody seems to be talking about). Juan Winter will present microeconomic trends for macs, while Ken Treloar will show how remote sensing and leveraging AI can help monitor macadamia yields. Corné Kruger will reflect on the results of his last two years experimenting with tree health and resiliency while keeping an eye on the budget, and Jako Pieterse will show how to create self-regulating regenerative farming practices.

Finally, Dorran Bungay will close on Friday afternoon with the importance of rigorous post-harvest practices to illustrate that ‘quality macadamias are no accident’. As always, there will be plenty of new exhibitors, updated technology and agricultural practices, lots of food and drink, and some Afrikaans music from Pieter Smith and rock music from our friends, Voodoo Kudu.

And of course, there will be a stand for Giraf Macadamia Milk, which, if you haven’t tried yet, will blow your socks off. See you on February 13 and 14 at Amber Macs White River.

@lowvelder

Lowvelder is in the thick of things at the AmberMacs Expo 2025. Stay tuned as we bring you all the highlights. Here is the owner of AmberMacs, Philip Moufarrige. AmberMacs Macadamia Expo #lowvelder #macadamianuts #expo #agriculture #agripulse #ambermacs

♬ original sound - Lowveld Media

For the Exhibitors guide

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Beste lesers en geagte kliënte van AgriPulse Met ’n hart vol dankbaarheid neem ek vandag afskeid as jou verkoopskonsultant.

Hierdie is my laaste uitgawe. Ek wil graag hierdie geleentheid gebruik om dankie te sê vir die ongelooflike 10 jaar lange reis wat ons saam gedeel het. Uit die staanspoor het ek deel van ’n gemeenskap gevoel wat saamwerk om die landbousektor te ondersteun en te groei.

Elke interaksie, projek en sukses wat ons behaal het, het my trots gemaak om deel van die AgriPulse-familie te wees. Ek wil ’n spesiale woord van dank betuig aan al die lesers en kliënte wat my vertrou het om hulle te ondersteun en te adviseer. Jou lojaliteit en ondersteuning het my werk ’n plesier gemaak. Dit was ’n voorreg om saam met jou te werk en ek is dankbaar vir die verhoudings wat ons opgebou het. Terwyl ek aan ’n nuwe hoofstuk in my lewe begin, sal ek altyd die herinneringe en ervarings wat ek hier opgedoen het, koester.

Ek is vol vertroue dat AgriPulse sal voortgaan om te groei en innoverend te wees, en ek sien uit daarna om te sien hoe hierdie gemeenskap verder floreer. Mag jou pad vorentoe vol sukses en groei wees.

Dankie vir alles.

Met opregte dankbaarheid, Chrisna Kirsten

Land Diary is a cutting-edge recordkeeping tool designed to streamline and simplify your farming activities. Accessible on any smart device, this innovative platform works seamlessly both on- and offline, ensuring you can monitor and manage your operations anytime, anywhere.

It’s cloud-based system uses a universal digital language, guaranteeing consistent data entry and smooth integration of all farming information.

With Land Diary, you can easily track and record key activities such as pest and disease scouting, plant protection applications, irrigation quantities, fertiliser use, harvesting and horticultural tasks. A custom dashboard allows you to tailor the tool to your specific needs, giving you full control of your farm’s progress.

Visualisation and reporting features make data-driven decision making effortless. Gain powerful insights into crop health, resource use and operational efficiency through intuitive charts and reports. Export these insights to PDF to share with stakeholders, empowering collaboration and informed decision-making across the board. This progressive web app is a gamechanger, offering unmatched flexibility and reliability. Its offline functionality ensures that fieldwork can continue uninterrupted, with automatic syncing to the cloud once internet access is restored. Modern, efficient and farmer-focused, Land Diary helps you work smarter and save time while unlocking your farm’s full potential. It’s more than a tool – it’s your partner in data integration: achieving sustainable, datadriven agriculture. Empower your farm with Land Diary – your key to success in modern farming.

TopNut is a global nut variety management company focusing on sourcing new varieties with improved characteristics, evaluating these varieties globally, commercialising approved varieties through a secured managed environment, and achieving improved returns for all stakeholders.

 

They have extensive knowledge in the tree nut value chain, from breeder to consumer, and a proven track record in variety protection, development and management. They offer the service of protecting plant breeder’s rights (PBR) and intellectual property, and commercialising this through a secured and scalable network. Other services include plant material management, breeder relations, quality control, royalty management, marketing, merchandising and technical support.

TopNut is the master licensee in Africa for the new macadamia nut variety, MCT1, which shows huge potential for growers to increase profitability back on the farm. TopNut realises that new genetics are crucial in the context of climate change, and research resulting in new and improved varieties is of paramount importance.

Their well-established relationships with macadamia breeders across the globe allows them to gain access to such improved varieties. Investment in new genetics will no doubt pave the way to farm more sustainably, and will lead to higher productivity, cost reductions and an increase in the quality of the product. TopNut recently reached a major milestone by acquiring their own nursery, Future Tree Nurseries, which has now officially become part of their business. This acquisition marks a significant step in enhancing their capabilities and ensuring a seamless connection between variety evaluation and the delivery of top-quality nursery trees to their growers. By bringing Future Tree Nurseries into their operations, they aim to streamline the supply chain while maintaining the highest standards that growers have become accustomed to.

Future Tree Nurseries specialises in propagating premium-quality macadamia trees, including the highly sought-after MCT1 variety, along with the best pollinator trees tailored to your needs.

TopNut contact: Anneli Bosman on 083 736 5553 | [email protected].

Future Tree Nurseries contact: Dian Bezuidenhout on 082 609 8192 | admin@ ftnurseries.co.za.

At Mahindra Nelspruit, we understand that farming isn’t just a job – it’s a way of life. That’s why our dealer principal, Cas Kolbé, has made it his mission to put customers first.

With a deep commitment to customer obsession, we ensure that every farmer receives unmatched service, expert advice and reliable aftersales support.

@lowvelder

Lowvelder popped in at the AmberMacs Expo 2025. Stay tuned as we bring you all the highlights. Here is Leigh van der Merwe of Mahindra Nelspruit. #mahindra #ambermacs2025 #lowvelder #expo #macadamianuts

♬ original sound – Lowveld Media

Whether you’re looking for a tough and dependable Mahindra tractor to power through your fields or need expert assistance to keep your equipment running smoothly, we are here for you.

• Robust, fuel-efficient tractors built for South African farms

• Flexible financing options tailored for your needs

• Aftersales support that keeps you moving Visit Mahindra Nelspruit today and experience a truly customer-centric approach – where your success is our priority! Six reasons why you should consider buying a Mahindra tractor • Tough, strong and fuel efficient – one of the best value propositions on the market

• Best-in-class working weight

• Best warranty on the market • First 2 000 hours service kit supplied with all new tractors

• Brilliant in their simplicity

• Operators love them for their robust build and ease of use.

Tractor specialist: Leigh van der Merwe, Mahindra Tractors Nelspruit

Greenshield (Trissolcus basalis) is regarded as an effective parasitoid due to several biological, ecological and behavioural traits that make it highly suited for controlling stink bug populations.

• Efficient host location: T. basalis has highly developed olfactory senses, allowing it to detect host egg masses using chemical cues such as pheromones and volatiles released by plants in response to stink bug feeding. Its ability to find eggs, even at low host densities, increases its effectiveness in pest management.

• Lifecycle synchronisation with hosts: The lifecycle of T. basalis is closely aligned with its host’s reproductive cycle. Female wasps prefer to parasitise egg masses soon after they are laid, preventing stink bug nymphs from ever hatching and causing damage.

• High reproductive potential and short development time: Females lay multiple eggs in a single host egg mass, allowing for high parasitism rates within a short period. A single female can parasitise multiple egg masses during her lifespan, significantly reducing host populations.

• A female can produce 80 to 200 eggs (average 140) during her life cycle of approximately three weeks. • Approximately 70 to 90% (average 80%) of these can be female under optimum conditions. • First generation: 1 female x 140 eggs x 80% = 112 females. • After three weeks – second generation: 112 females x 140 eggs x 80% = 12 544 females

• After six weeks – third generation: 12 544 females x 140 eggs x 80% = 1 404 928 females. Of course, this exponential increase does not happen in nature due to various reasons, but serves the purpose to explain that T. basalis has the potential to be a very effective biological control agent.

• Adaptability to varied environments: T. basalis is tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions, enabling it to thrive in diverse climates where its hosts are present. Its ability to survive under different temperature and humidity levels increases its effectiveness across various agricultural systems. • Minimal non-target affects: Its strong preference for stink bug eggs and low impact on other insect species makes T. basalis environmentally friendly compared to chemical pesticides. This specificity reduces unintended ecological consequences.

• Prevention of crop damage: By targeting stink bug eggs, T. basalis halts the development of the pest. This early intervention minimises crop losses and reduces the need for pesticide use.

• Low cost and ease of implementation: T. basalis can be mass-reared in laboratory conditions for field release, making it cost-effective for largescale pest control. Its release as a biological control agent requires minimal maintenance compared to ongoing pesticide applications.

• Compatibility with integrated pest management (IPM): T. basalis integrates well into IPM strategies, working alongside other biological control agents and cultural practices. Its natural ability to suppress stink bugs complements the reduced use of chemical pesticides, supporting sustainable agriculture. These attributes collectively make Trissolcus basalis an exceptional parasitoid and a valuable tool for managing stink bug populations in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.

Taxonomy and classification

Trissolcus basalis is a parasitic wasp belonging to the family Scelionidae within the order Hymenoptera.

It is closely associated with the stink bug family Pentatomidae as an egg parasitoid.

Description

This small wasp (1-2mm in length) is dark coloured, with metallic overtones. It has characteristic features like long antennae and a compact body adapted for its parasitic lifestyle.

Distribution

Trissolcus basalis is not tied to a single country, but rather to a broader geographic region. It is native to several regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. Its natural distribution corresponds to areas where its primary host, the southern green stink bug (Nezara viridula), is also native or prevalent.

Host specificity

Trissolcus basalis likely evolved in association with Nezara viridula in regions where the stink bug is thought to have originated, such as Africa or parts of southern Europe.

Over time, both T. basalis and N. viridula expanded their range, aided by human activity and agricultural globalisation. The wasp has also been introduced intentionally into other parts of the world, such as North and South America, as a biological control agent for managing N. viridula populations.

T. basalis shows a strong affinity for N. viridula due to evolutionary co-adaptation, including the ability to locate its eggs through chemical cues and environmental signals. Fortunately, T. basalis can parasitise eggs of other stink bug species in the absence of its primary host.

According to international literature, these include:

• Acrosternum hilare (green stink bug) • Euschistus heros (brown stink bug) • Plautia affinis

In South Africa the genus Trissolcus is associated with the following species:

• Pseudotheraptus wayi (coconut bug)

• Antestiopsis orbitalis (antesia bug) • Bathycoelia distincta (two-spotted bug)

• Farnya asp • Chinavia pallidoconspersa (yellow-edged bug). The genus Trissolcus is clearly a very important component of the biological control complex for Heteroptera in Southern Africa. Contact your nearest Koppert technical advisor to find out how Greenshield can fit into your IPM strategy for upcoming seasons.

Farmers face constant challenges in protecting their properties from theft, vandalism and unauthorised access. To address these issues, Electra has partnered with Behjane 360 to create a specialised farm security solution that combines cutting-edge technology with military-grade expertise. This collaboration has resulted in the Lowveld Risk Operations Centre (Lowveld ROC), a forwardthinking initiative designed to enhance farm security.

The Lowveld ROC: Advanced security at your fingertips

The Lowveld ROC merges Electra’s sophisticated security technology with Behjane’s anti-poaching and military experience. Central to this system is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to collect and analyse real-time data, forming a centralised database that helps farmers monitor and address potential threats. This AI-driven approach allows for immediate identification of security breaches, ensuring properties, families and assets are always protected. The Lowveld ROC provides farmers with the peace of mind that their property is constantly monitored. When a potential security breach is detected, the operations centre is equipped to quickly inform the relevant authorities, security personnel or farm owners, ensuring a rapid response to mitigate the threat. This proactive approach to security not only reacts to incidents, but also keeps the necessary stakeholders informed for swift action.

Proactive crime prevention: The role of ANPR

A key feature of this integrated security solution is the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system. This tool provides real-time monitoring of vehicles entering or leaving farm premises, automatically logging vehicle number plates. It helps farmers quickly identify unauthorised vehicles and trigger alerts for suspicious activity, allowing for immediate action. The ANPR system also generates detailed data logs, offering valuable insights into vehicle movements, which can help identify patterns and inform security decisions. With the support of Electra’s extensive ANPR camera network in Mpumalanga, farmers benefit from a reliable and efficient way to monitor vehicle activity, significantly improving farm security.

Electra’s expertise: 43 years of security excellence

Khuselo Electra, a trusted name in the security industry, brings 43 years of experience in providing comprehensive security solutions, including CCTV, access control and alarm systems. Known for its commitment to quality service and precision, Electra ensures that every project is executed with care and efficiency. Their expertise in installing and maintaining advanced security systems guarantees a secure and seamless experience for farmers, providing them with both immediate protection and long-term security.

Sustainable, comprehensive protection for farmers

The partnership between Electra offers farmers a robust, sustainable security solution. By combining AI, real-time monitoring and quick communication to the necessary stakeholders, the Lowveld ROC helps create a secure environment, giving farmers the freedom to focus on running their operations without fear of intrusion. This proactive, reliable approach sets a new standard in farm security, delivering peace of mind and comprehensive protection for farmers and their families.

Your security is an investment

A robust security system isn’t just an installation – it’s a partnership. With Electra’s Lowveld ROC, you get ongoing support, maintenance and technology upgrades that ensure your farm remains safe, productive and secure. Contact us today to protect your farm and community!

• Tel: 013 752 6677

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: www.electracom.co.za

• Address: 20 Jones Street, Mbombela

Ezigro is a leading producer of macadamia trees and proud to be a supplier to growers. Their nurserymen are eager to offer advice on cultivar selection when it comes to matching with specific grower requirements, and happy to assist with pre-plant planning.

Budwood is sourced from farms known to the company, where high-yielding trees free of MFC (macadamia felted coccid) are selected. Ezigro conducts regularly audits with Crop Watch. Ezigro has implemented the Ellepot paper pot system as part of its propagation of trees.

This offers an increased root mass, relative to bag size, for growers. The seeds are initially germinated in 50mm Ellepot bags and later transplanted into 5.5L bags.

The sales team is currently conducting visits to the Lowveld, Southern Cape, eSwatini, Zimbabwe and Zambia. Get in touch!

As we continue to advocate precision and efficient irrigation in macadamia orchards, significant emphasis is placed on tree, soil and climatic knowledge, along with knowledgebased irrigation decisions.

“Efficient irrigation provides the tools for precise crop management. It requires timely, need-based water delivery that considers all influencing factors to manage the crop based on phenological stages for optimal production. A holistic approach is necessary where all data and impacting factors are integrated,” explains Jovan Erasmus, agronomist at Netafim South Africa. Knowledge, data and a precise irrigation schedule are, however, meaningless if they cannot be actioned.

Irrigation automation unlocks the full potential of precision irrigation and fertigation. This does not mean that digital farming solutions are the start all and end all of precision irrigation, but if we consider the level of precision we want to achieve in the orchard to truly grow more with less, we realise that by applying the appropriate technologies and managing them optimally, we can truly use every drop of water and gram of fertiliser with extreme precision and achieve optimal macadamia yields. Irrigation automation technology has significantly advanced over the past decades, especially in South Africa, driven by the need for extreme precision on our farms in order for them to be sustainable, overcome challenges and remain competitive.

@lowvelder

Laevelder besoek tans die AmberMacs Expo 2025 in Witrivier. Ons gesels nou met Hein van Graan en Willem Smit van Netafim. #netafim #ambermacs #expo #laevelder

♬ original sound – Lowveld Media

Digital farming automation is crucial to the efficiency of many irrigation systems, and is evolving in the important role it plays on farms. It should operate 24/7, taking responsibility for EC/pH control, opening valves, fertiliser injection, alerting the farmer about problems in the pumphouse or orchard, and more. Digital farming solutions enable users to efficiently manage large, complex systems with minimal resources. At Netafim SA, we take pride in delivering and expanding our digital farming solutions. We continue to encourage farmers to embrace technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability on farms. It is our responsibility to make irrigation innovations accessible to all farmers in our region. Our commitment remains focused on developing solutions tailored to the unique needs of the local agricultural sector.

These include our recent local launch of the GrowSphere All-in-One Irrigation Operating System. After successful global and local testing, GrowSphere is now available through our local dealer network, with multiple units already successfully operating on farms in the region.

“This is a game-changing solution and offers many crucial capabilities with many more to come. We are working closely with our dealer network to ensure it delivers real value to farmers,” says Theron.

“Our team is focused on ensuring that GrowSphere meets the unique needs of our local market, while also equipping our dealers and field teams with extensive training to ensure that this revolutionary product can be optimally supported in the field.

Healthy trees are the cornerstone of any thriving farm. Protecting their trunks and preventing diseases is key to ensuring high yields and long-term productivity.

That’s why we’re proud to introduce Teepee Tree Paint – a natural and innovative solution designed to shield your trees and support their growth.

The perfect barrier for your trees Teepee Tree Paint provides a durable, effective coating for tree trunks. Whether you’re safeguarding young saplings or maintaining mature trees, Teepee offers reliable protection against pests, sunscald and physical damage. Its unique formulation creates a breathable barrier that preserves bark health while allowing essential moisture exchange.

Advanced disease control with copper oxychloride For farmers battling bacterial infections, we’ve formulated Teepee with copper oxychloride – a proven ingredient in managing bacterial diseases.

This enhanced version of Teepee not only protects tree trunks, but also actively combats harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting overall tree vitality. Why choose Teepee? 1. Comprehensive protection: Protect your trees from extreme weather conditions, ensuring their health and longevity. 2. Promotes tree health: Encourages healthy growth by maintaining bark integrity. 3.

Tailored solutions: Available in standard and copper oxychloride-enhanced formulas to meet specific agricultural needs. 4. Easy application: Designed for quick and effortless use, saving you time and effort. 5. Eco-friendly composition: Made from inert minerals and natural ingredients, this eco-friendly white latex paint offers robust protection against harmful environmental factors while being gentle on the environment.

Support your farm’s potential Don’t let preventable damage compromise your yields. Teepee Tree Paint is your first line of defence, ensuring your trees remain healthy, productive and resilient year after year.

With Teepee, you’re investing in a brighter, greener future for your farm. For more information or to place your order, contact us today. Let Teepee Tree Paint be the shield your trees deserve

Fox is South Africa’s premier supplier of personal protective equipment (PPE), cleaning chemicals, paper products and industrial consumable supplies. As a manufacturer of innovative, technical protective garments and importer of industry leading safety equipment, G. Fox is driven by its purpose: “To keep people safe and areas clean.”

G. Fox’s extensive range of safety garments and equipment combines top-quality with strength, comfort and durability. All of our garments are expertly manufactured to G. Fox’s stringent specifications and standards in our companyowned, first-rate factory – which produces over 25 000 garments a day, ensuring stock is readily available from our branches nationwide Our comprehensive safety products range covers the entire spectrum of applications, from light-duty cotton and polycotton conti suits to specialised fabrics designed for heavy industry and specialised risks such as spark, acid and flame and even arc flash protection.

G. Fox also stocks a wide variety of safety equipment, including both trusted and sought-after brand names as well as Fox brand products, which represent our own cutting-edge development and safety features, priced specifically for the South African market. Here you will find fit-forpurpose hard-working products such as our Alsafe footwear range, which is perfect for agricultural applications.

The Evolution range of disposable respirators and dust masks provides a quality and affordable staple product. G. Fox is on the forefront of glove development and offers a complete safety glove range. All gloves are designed and tested for safety while also offering supreme quality, maximum comfort, dexterity and freedom of movement with less hand fatigue.

Through key partnerships, a focus on technological innovation, continuous improvement and a growing national footprint, G. Fox is committed to being the PPE supplier of choice across Southern Africa. When it comes to a name you can trust for the full head-totoe range of quality safety clothing and equipment, G. Fox is your safest bet.

This insect is native to the Far East (Taiwan, Korea, China and Japan) and has subsequently spread to ports of the USA (2001), Europe and South America shortly thereafter, presumably in packing material, motor vehicles, etc. It is a polyphagous pest and currently exploits more than 300 food plants. Although the dispersal of this insect is well documented in the northern hemisphere, similar dispersal studies in the southern are scant at best. Various niche models indicated that this insect prefers areas between latitudes 30 and 50, but in African areas in Angola and the southern DRC seems to be specifically at risk. Generally, regions with moist tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean and warm temperate climates appear to be at substantial risk on each continent. The threats are greatest in prime horticultural production areas. Although this pest has not been documented in South Africa, its mode of dispersal, our mild climate as well as the proximity of various major fruit production regions close to major ports highlight the Dr Schalk Schoeman. – Sonbesie Consulting ‘This is a pest of considerable economic importance that may be difficult to detect’ considerable potential risk posed by this pest.

This is a pest of considerable economic importance that may be difficult to detect. Part of this conundrum is that it closely resembles three very common indigenous stink bugs (Coenomorpha nervosa, Pseudatelus raptorius and Anolcus campestrius).

The following series of photos will help to make the identification process a bit easier:

Diagnostic features

• White bands on the fourth and fifth segments of the antennae (red
arrow)
• Alternating white band on portion of the abdomen protruding
below the wings (elytra) (yellow arrows)
• Creamy coloration of the ventral (underside) of the adult insect
• Nymph – mottled with reddish flecks without powdery coating.

Grey-brown stink bug Coenomorpha nervosa

* White bands on the 4th and 5th segments of the antennae (red arrow)

* Alternating brownish bands on portion of the abdomen protruding below the wings (elytra) (yellow arrows)

* Mottled brownish coloration of the ventral (underside) of the adult insect

* Nymph – mottled with reddish flecks without powdery coating.

Woolly stink bug Pseudatelus raptoria

* Black tips on the antennae

* Alternating brownish bands on portion of the abdomen protruding below the wings (elytra)

* White powdery coating of the ventral (underside) of the adult insect

* Nymph – covered with powdery coating.

Anolcus campestrus

* White bands on the 4th and 5th segments of the antennae

* Alternating reddish – brownish bands on portion of the abdomen protruding below the wings (elytra)

* Creamy white coloration of the ventral (underside) of the adult insect.

* The presence of a black glandular structure ventrally between the first and second pair of legs (red arrow).

 

Deltec Energy Solutions is a division of Hudaco Energy Group, a pioneering leader in distributing top-quality branded products across the solar, energy, automotive and mining industries.

We understand the evolving needs of our customers and the industries we serve. With a proven track record spanning over four decades, Deltec Energy Solutions prides itself on its steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence.

Our relentless pursuit of cuttingedge solutions has established us as a prime tier-1 supplier, trusted by the industry for our reliability, expertise and forward-thinking approach. Established in 1979, Deltec has built a trusted reputation in the industry through commitment to innovation, quality and affordability. The journey began with maintenance-free batteries for the automotive market, and over the years have expanded offerings to include industryleading products, systems and turnkey energy management solutions. Choosing Deltec means partnering with a company that values innovation, quality and customer satisfaction. Our extensive range of products and comprehensive energy solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients, ensuring reliability and efficiency in every project.

Deltec has 6 branches. Cape Town, George, Johannesburg, Rustenburg, Pinetown, Mbombela.

Find the battery you need

As the leading local importer, we are able to offer the latest international battery technologies across the spectrum. We represent the leading global manufacturers in automotive lead acid, tubular gel and AGM Lithium batteries within southern Africa. We’ve got you covered with every kind of battery.

Save with smart energy choices

Deltec’s energy division focuses on C&I and Residential power and storage systems. We support our partners to supply, install and commission quality, reliable and bankable systems.

Go off the grid. Go solar!

We supply and install a complete range of green power units. This team will facilitate with planning the perfect solution, assembling the quote and implementing the installation of the finished system.

Make the switch to a greener future. • Branden: 060 474 9674, branden@deltec. co.za

• Bernadette: 087 806 5876, bernadette@ deltec.co.za

• Rapid Business Park, 10 Rapid Street, Riverside, Mbombela, South Africa

• www.deltecenergysolutions.co.za

Macsteel Express Mbombela has been part of the Loweld construction landscape for over 20 years. The company is also part of a 120-year legacy in South Africa We have established a South African favourite by ensuring we never waver on quality.

The fact that 80% of our client base are repeat clients is testament to this. The team members of the Macsteel organisation are the longest serving in the industry.

Ours is a happy team, and this spills over to how we serve our community. Our main product range includes metal and rods, steel tubing, lipped channels, hot and cold sheets, and expanded metal and gratings, as well as angle iron, inverted box rib, and corrugated roof sheeting.

For your construction project’s bulk steel requirements or your home DIY project, we are ready to serve. Our head office is based in Mbombela, but our fleet of trucks delivers across the province. Visit us at 5 Bosch Street, Mbombela, or call us on 013 785 7160

Grondgesondheid is deurslaggewend vir suksesvolle landbou.

Een van die doeltreffendste maniere om grondgesondheid te verseker, is deur gereeld grondmonsters te neem en te bekalk soos nodig.

Deur die samestelling van die grond te verstaan en die behoeftes daarvan aan te spreek, kan verhoogde oesopbrengste, verbeterde plantgesondheid en algehele volhoubaarheid van die ekosisteem bereik word.

Van die belangrikste redes waarom grond bekalk moet word, word hieronder bespreek.

pH-vlakke

Grond-pH is ’n kritieke faktor wat plantgroei beïnvloed. Dit is een van die belangrike redes vir bekalking, maar beslis nie die enigste rede nie. Die meeste gewasse floreer in effens suur tot neutrale gronde, tipies ’n pH (H2O) van ongeveer 6,4.

Wanneer die pH hiervan afwyk, kan die beskikbaarheid van voedingstowwe en mikrobiese aktiwiteit nadelig beïnvloed word. Dit is ook belangrik om daarop te let dat ’n goeie pH nie beteken dat die grond nie steeds bekalk moet word vir redes soos hieronder bespreek nie.

Katioonbalans

Katione of positief gelaaide ione soos kalsium, magnesium, ammonium en kalium speel ’n belangrike rol in plantvoeding. Dit is belangrik om te weet dat ’n oormaat van een katioon die opname van ’n ander nadelig kan beïnvloed. Hierdie antagonisme tussen elemente is ’n werklikheid in plantvoeding. Hoë natriumvlakke kan byvoorbeeld die opname van ander katione soos kalium, kalsium, ammonium en magnesium negatief beïnvloed. Gronde met ’n lae pH het dikwels ’n swak katioonbalans.

Dit kan ’n oormaat van sekere katione soos aluminium tot gevolg hê. Deur te bekalk en die regte aanvullings te gebruik, kan hierdie balans reggestel word en sodoende die beskikbaarheid van alle katione verhoog terwyl katione in oormaat verplaas word. Gereelde grondontledings is belangrik om te verseker dat alle katione in die grond wel in balans en plantbeskikbaar is.

Grondstruktuur

Grondstruktuur verwys na die rangskikking van gronddeeltjies en die spasies tussen hulle. Grondstruktuur beinvloed onder andere waterinfiltrasie, deurlugting en wortelontwikkeling.

Kompakte of swak gestruktureerde grond kan lei tot ’n afname in gewasproduksie as gevolg van versuiping, swak deurlugting en beperkte wortelstelsels. Kalktoediening kan grondstruktuur verbeter deur die rangskikking van gronddeeltjies te verbeter. Die hoeveelheid kalsium en magnesium en die verhouding tot mekaar het ’n groot invloed op die grondstruktuur. Hierdie verbeterde grondstruktuur lei tot beter wortelpenetrasie, verbeterde waterinfiltrasie, beter dreinering en ’n gesonder omgewing vir voordelige grondorganismes.

Soute

Hoë soutvlakke in die grond kan ’n nadelige uitwerking op plantvoeding en wateropname hê. Verhoogde sout kan ontstaan as gevolg van verskeie faktore, insluitend swak gehalte besproeiingswater en swak dreinering. Bekalking speel ’n belangrike rol in die bestuur van hierdie toestande. Deur die regte kalk toe te dien kan jy grondstruktuur, dreinering en plantvoeding verbeter. Die regte bekalking bevorder loging, sodat oortollige soute van die wortelsone wegspoel, en sodoende ’n beter omgewing vir die plante skep. Gevolgtrekking Gereelde grondmonsterneming en bekalking is noodsaaklike praktyke vir suksesvolle landbou.

Om optimale pH-vlakke te verseker, katioonbalans te handhaaf, grondstruktuur te verbeter en soutgehalte te bestuur verbeter nie net plantgesondheid nie, maar dra ook by tot volhoubare grondbestuur. Deur hierdie praktyke te prioritiseer kan grondgesondheid en algehele landbouproduktiwiteit aansienlik verbeter word. ’n Belegging in grondontledings en bekalking is ’n stap in die rigting van volhoubare boerdery en langtermynomgewingsgesondheid.

Kontak gerus jou plaaslike Melior-agent vir meer inligting:

• Vivienne Krikke: 083 564 0660 or [email protected]
• Wieland Jordaan: 060 687 7451

South Africa’s macadamia industry may have started small, but today it’s one of the major players in the world with around 65 000* hectares across Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal producing over 80 000* tonnes during 2023.

South Africa remains the largest macadamia-producing country in the world and up to 98% of crops are exported to China, Europe, Canada and the US. Paramount to profitable crops is a robust disease and weed control programme – and for this, BASF has your back with innovative solutions to ensure export-worthy nuts.

Choose the perfect partner

Bellis is a high-performance solution developed to prevent blossom blight, husk rot and husk spot.

Focused on supporting the farmer’s quest for more marketable crops, it offers the following benefits:

• An excellent ecological and environmental profile with no effect on bees

• Boscalid disrupts fungal growth and prevents infection from taking place • The combination of Boscalid and F500 (with different modes of action), contributes to reliable performance and resistance management

• Provides extensive protection against diseases through rapid uptake and distribution in the plant tissue.

Ensure peace of mind

BASF’s innovative biological insecticide, Broadband, is a highly effective solution to reduce stinkbug and false codling moth populations. Ideally positioned to incorporate into your IPM (integrated pest management) programme, it is BASF’s top-performing Beauveria bassiana product globally and offers a variety of benefits to ensure a healthy crop:

• Broadband is active on all stages of the life cycle of insect pests that are present in the tree canopy at the time of application e.g: eggs, larvae, juveniles and adults

• No resistance build-up

• Broadband’s OD formulation ensures that spores stay virulent for 20 months if stored in a cold room at 4°C

• Ease of use, thanks to the liquid OD formulation, which makes pouring and mixing easier than dry formulations

• MRL restrictions – can be applied at any crop development stage

• Highest levels of active ingredient – contains minimum 4×109 viable spores/ml Beauveria bassiana strain PPRI 5339.

Act fast for best results

When insects threaten your orchards, you need to control them with a reliable, fastacting solution.

BASF’s Fastac effectively controls stink bugs, fruit weevils and bollworms, resulting in clean and healthy orchards. Other benefits include:

• Maximum protection thanks to its robust formulation that is not affected by sunlight or temperature

• A high knockdown rate and repellent effects, ensuring quick protection.

Focused control

Finally, BASF’s Focus Ultra is a fast-acting postemergent herbicide for the control of annual and perennial grasses in orchards, offering a wide application spectrum for quick and reliable control. Additionally, Focus Ultra offers the following benefits:

• High selectivity for safe use in orchards • Inhibits lipid synthesis in the growth areas, impeding the formation of cells

• Ceases growth of weeds immediately.

For enquiries, visit our website to find your closest BASF representative: www.agro.basf.co.za

* Information source: SAMAC Statistics 2023.

@lowvelder

Laevelder besoek tans die AmberMacs Expo 2025 in Witrivier. Bly ingeskakel om meer van die stalletjies te sien. Ons gesels nou met Christina de Kock van Giraf Macadamia. #lowvelder #macadamiamilk #macadamiamilk

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