Knowledge Makes a Difference

As part of the ETG Group, Kynoch Fertilizer is fully aware of our social responsibility in agriculture, engaging in projects that involve subsistence and emerging producers. Our footprint extends beyond South Africa to the entire continent.

For Kynoch, uplifting communities in our service areas is not just “the right thing to do” but a significant responsibility and privilege to be involved in such projects. The company participates in small-scale horticultural projects in local communities, as well as large-scale projects involving organised agriculture.

Fertiliser Recommendations

Every project has its unique challenges, but history has shown that the quality of fertiliser recommendations and the physical quality of the product are among the reasons why projects have failed. Some projects did not receive the best fertiliser recommendations and quality fertiliser. Financial challenges typically played a dominant role. Extension officers from the various provincial departments often lacked technical knowledge on fertiliser recommendations, resulting in projects failing to be financially sustainable.

Ongoing agricultural support is crucial for the success of such projects, and Kynoch excels in this with our extensive support network throughout the production period. Our local agents play a vital role in schools running horticultural projects. They are actively involved from site selection to harvesting the produce and establishing the next vegetables and/or fruits. Kynoch offers small packaging (1 kg, 2 kg, or 5 kg) tailored to the market and facilitates transportation. Not only are quality products provided, but ongoing training and support are also offered.

Soil Analyses

A second limitation or challenge is that the basis of fertiliser recommendations, namely soil analyses, is often missing or very outdated. Emerging producers then do not receive correct agronomic recommendations, which immediately puts them at a disadvantage. Kynoch’s philosophy is that there should be no distinction between commercial and emerging producers’ fertiliser recommendations.

Our agronomists consider each farm and project’s unique circumstances when composing recommendations. Due to financial constraints, the quality of fertiliser has often been a problem affecting yields negatively. As a responsible partner in the projects, quality fertiliser is non-negotiable for Kynoch. The fertiliser for social responsibility projects is manufactured at Kynoch’s facilities with the same raw materials and quality as for commercial clients. The plant mixture and top dressing are recommended according to agronomic principles and applied according to the recommended kilograms per hectare.

One of the social responsibility projects Kynoch is extremely proud to be involved in is Grain SA’s one-hectare project. Kynoch was approached by Grain SA ten years ago to be part of the Beyond Abundance project. This project provides subsistence farmers across South Africa, primarily in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo, who operate one-hectare subsistence farms, with fertiliser, seed, lime, and chemical products in smaller packages as part of the suppliers’ social responsibility programmes. There are strict qualification criteria that prospective participants must meet to be admitted to the project.

The uniqueness of the project is that producers are expected to make a financial contribution for a percentage of the total inputs. This creates accountability and a sense of ownership for the subsistence farmers and is key to the project’s success. There is literally a waiting list to join the project. The fact that the producers are managed and assisted by Grain SA mentors is also largely responsible for the project’s success. The mentors have full access to Kynoch’s agricultural team for assistance and advice. The project also benefits from Kynoch’s extensive distribution network spread across the project area, ensuring that damaged products can be quickly replaced.

Some projects are in the most remote areas of the country, making the transportation of fertiliser a significant challenge. Some delivery points are literally in the “boondocks.” Together with Kynoch’s in-house transport company, Tengwa Transport, and their subcontractors, loads are combined as efficiently as possible and dispatched to various delivery points. With the help of Grain SA mentors, the delivery process is facilitated, and control over quantities is exercised.

Kynoch’s involvement in the Grain SA project remains one of our flagship social responsibility projects. The impact on the economic, social, and mental well-being of communities is immeasurable in financial terms, and it gives us the greatest pleasure to be involved in new projects in the future.

By: Jakes Du Plessis: Kynoch

Kontak Kynoch op 011 317 2000 of info@kynoch.co.za

The post Kynoch Fertilizer’s Impact: Supporting Emerging Farmers Through Sustainable Agricultural Projects first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.

As a wheat farmer in South Africa, you understand the importance of optimal soil preparation and fertilisation for a successful harvest. Soil testing and targeted fertilisers are crucial components of this process, helping you identify and address nutrient deficiencies to ensure healthy plant growth. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the world of soil testing, nutrient deficiencies, and targeted fertilisers, providing you with the knowledge and resources you need to optimise your wheat farming operations.

Soil Testing: The First Step

Soil testing is the foundation of optimal “nutritional” soil preparation that should be done well in advance. It helps you determine the soil’s fertility status (including pH, cations, and phosphorus content, sulphur content, acidity, and silt and clay content, aka texture; as well as all trace elements), enabling you to make informed decisions about correctional fertiliser applications prior to planting, as well as the best suitable fertiliser to apply during planting. The latter will be determined by the soil status, as well as the crop demand, linked to expected yield potential. In the winter rainfall area of South Africa (Western Cape), it is also very important to measure the rock and coarse fragments in the soil sample. According to the Agricultural Research Council, soil testing every 3-5 years is recommended to monitor changes in soil health and adjust your management strategies accordingly (Agricultural Research Council, 2022). Kynoch advises testing every 3 years.

Common Nutrient Deficiencies in Wheat Farming

Wheat crops require a balanced mix of nutrients to thrive. In general, some of the most common nutrient deficiencies in wheat farming include:

1. Nitrogen (N): Essential for plant growth and development, nitrogen deficiency can lead to stunted plants, reduced yields, and poor grain quality.
2. Phosphorus (P): Crucial for root development, phosphorus deficiency can result in reduced plant growth, poor water uptake, and decreased yields.
3. Potassium (K): Important for plant water balance and disease resistance, potassium deficiency can lead to weakened plants, reduced yields, and increased susceptibility to disease.
4. Trace elements: Depending on soil conditions, deficiencies of micro-elements could be expected. If the soil is acidic, elements like molybdenum could be deficient; if the soil is sandy, elements like copper, zinc, boron, iron, and manganese could be deficient. If the soil is alkaline, basically all trace elements, except molybdenum, could be deficient.
5. Soil acidity: Wheat is very sensitive to soil acidity (expressed as acid saturation). It is imperative for wheat production to try and keep acid saturation at less than 1%. The only way to neutralise acidity is by applying agricultural lime, whether dolomitic or calcitic (depending on the soil’s calcium-to-magnesium ratio). Lime could be obtained from dedicated lime supplying companies.

Targeted Fertilisers: Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies

Targeted fertilisers are designed to address specific nutrient deficiencies, providing your wheat crop with the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development. Mostly, some serious elemental deficiencies identified through the soil analysis done prior to planting could be rectified before planting by targeted fertilisers containing phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, and magnesium. An element like nitrogen will always be applied during planting, with the remaining portion applied just before planting (pre-plant application), or as a top dressing 4 to 6 weeks after emergence. The planting blend, consisting primarily of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, will be made up of different ratios according to crop preference and soil conditions. For instance, in the Vaalharts-irrigation scheme, a 7:3:3 or 2:3:2 N:P:K-ratio fertiliser is popular. In the dry-land summer rainfall areas, a 4.1.0 or 8.2.1 N:P:K-ratio fertiliser could be used. In the winter rainfall area, MAP is a popular option.

Reputable Resources for South African Wheat Farmers

For further guidance on soil testing, nutrient deficiencies, and targeted fertilisers, consult the following reputable resources:

1. Agricultural Research Council – Small Grain Institute (ARC-Small Grain Institute)
2. Fertilizer Association of Southern Africa (FERTASA)
3. NviroTek Laboratories ((link unavailable))

You can find more information on these resources through online searches or by consulting with local Kynoch agricultural experts and extension services. Other laboratories in South Africa could also be found online.

Conclusion

Optimising soil preparation and fertilisation is critical for successful wheat farming in South Africa. By understanding the importance of soil testing, identifying common nutrient deficiencies, and applying targeted fertilisers, you can ensure healthy plant growth, improved yields, and enhanced grain quality. Remember to consult reputable resources for guidance and support, helping you make informed decisions for your wheat farming operations.

Note:

1. The article is written in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand, and is based on reputable sources. It is not intended to be an exhaustive or technical guide, but rather a helpful resource for South African wheat farmers and producers.
2. Wheat production and practices for the summer and winter rainfall areas differ from one another. Please note the differences in reference sources.

Fertilisers for wheat: [Read more]

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The post Optimising Soil Preparation and Fertilisation for Wheat Farming first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.

Understanding the Crop and Soil

A key lesson learnt from experience is the importance of understanding both the crop and the medium it’s anchored in. This knowledge can unlock the full potential of the combination. Fixed recipes for a given crop won’t necessarily yield the same success elsewhere, as the specific soil, location, and crop interact in complex ways. Historically, researchers referred to this combination as a soil-crop ecotope, highlighting the need to avoid one-size-fits-all approaches.

Involving a Kynoch Agriculturalist and Agent

To ensure the best possible outcomes, it’s advisable for producers to involve a Kynoch agriculturalist and agent in their planning and decision-making process. These experts can provide valuable insights and guidance on the most effective fertilisers, soil conditioners, and growth stimulants for each specific crop and soil combination. Various baskets or groups of plant nutrients, bio-stimulants, and even soil conditioners can enhance any crop production system.

Liquid Fertilisers and Hydroponic Systems

Kynoch offers a range of high-quality clear liquid fertilisers, which can be used in conjunction with dry fertiliser options. Liquid alternatives are available for most dry fertiliser options, and specialised crops can be fertigated or fed through hydroponic systems. Nutritional feed for these crops requires specialised knowledge about soil and water quality, as well as the specific types of macro-, secondary-, and micro-elements needed. Managing electrical conductivity and salt indexes in the water, fertiliser solution, and wetting zones in the soil is crucial for optimal growth.

Vegetable Production

Vegetables are typically planted in rows, with fertiliser banding during planting. An Ultra-fertiliser (micro-element coated) banded during planting ensures a complementary array of nutrients within immediate access of roots. KynoKelp seaweed extract can be used as a foliar after emergence (or transplanting) to benefit early root development and growth. After emergence, Veggie Oemff, together with KynoFulvate Yellow (an uptake enhancer) as a foliar, promotes healthy growth. KynoHumate Black can be used as a soil conditioner to benefit roots and nutrient uptake from the soil.

Unlocking Potential

In row crop production, a key insight for unlocking potential is Ultra technology for vegetables. Loads of micro-elements coated onto every fertiliser granule are present and available in the soil after banding and are highly plant absorbable. Ultra can be made for planting blends with KynoPlus stabilised urea. Various Oemff products are available for foliar toppings, in association with KynoKelp seaweed extract and KynoFulvate Yellow. Sulphur-containing KynoPlus top- or side-dressing blends, with or without potassium, are available.

Permanent Crops

Permanent crops like vines, stone and pome fruit, citrus, nuts, avocado, litchi, banana, and dates are grown in South Africa. Each one can be seen as a speciality, requiring specific nutrients and care. In the basket for this group, there are multiple excellent options (dry granule, water-soluble, and liquids). For macadamia, for instance, a KynoMac range of products is available to provide specific nutrients.

Conclusion

Getting ready for a new season requires careful planning and consideration of the unique needs of each crop and soil combination. By involving a Kynoch agriculturalist and agent, and utilising the right fertilisers, soil conditioners, and growth stimulants, producers can unlock the full potential of their crops and achieve optimal growth and yields.

Compiled by Chris Schmidt on 082 885 8134, or email chris.schmidt@kynoch.co.za, and Chris Burbidge on 083 702 0760 or email chris.burbidge@kynoch.co.za.

– KynoKelp® M314 (Act 36 of 1947)
– KynoFulvate Yellow® M261 (Act 36 of 1947)
– KynoHumate Black® M350 (Act 36 of 1947)
– KynoPlus® K8024 (Act 36 of 1947)
– KynoMac® 6:0:10 (30) K11218 (Act 36 of 1947)

Read the full article: 3 minute read

The post Getting Ready for a New Season: Unlocking Crop Potential first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.

Most school biology students will know the importance of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) for healthy plant growth. However, a more in-depth study reveals that these are just three of many elements playing an essential role in overall plant welfare. Whilst these constitute the main requirement, relatively large quantities of calcium, magnesium, and sulphur are equally necessary. Although plants only need minute traces of micronutrients, these are no less crucial to ensure growing crops thrive.

The seven essential micronutrients for plant growth are:

– Boron (B) – essential for cell wall development and sugar metabolism
– Chlorine (Cl) – important for photosynthesis and water balance
– Copper (Cu) – crucial for enzyme activity and chlorophyll production
– Iron (Fe) – vital for photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen fixation
– Manganese (Mn) – necessary for enzyme activity and plant defence
– Molybdenum (Mo) – essential for nitrogen fixation and plant growth
– Zinc (Zn) – important for plant growth regulation and protein synthesis

Even the nutrients in well-fertilised soil can become severely depleted by the end of the growing season. At the same time, some ground may display various mineral deficiencies even before cultivation. In the past, a farmer would have dug in a mix of farmyard manure and vegetable compost and hoped for the best. Whilst this is a long-standing traditional approach, it fails to produce the high yields necessary today. Instead, modern intensive farming relies on precisely formulated mixtures of primary, secondary, and essential micronutrients.

A fertiliser with an appropriate NPK ratio is a fundamental requirement for all plants. However, it can be dangerous to overlook the need for traces of boron, chlorides, copper, manganese, molybdenum, iron, and zinc. For example, copper plays a crucial role in enzyme and chlorophyll activity and promotes seed formation. Iron acts as an activator for photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen fixation and is required for chlorophyll production. Factors such as excessive damp, cold, high pH, and heavy rainfall can quickly deplete the small traces of these and other natural micronutrients in the soil.

How to Know Which Elements Need to be Supplemented

Common deficiency symptoms include:

– Yellowing leaves (nitrogen) – conduct a soil analysis to confirm nitrogen deficiency
– Stunted growth (phosphorus) – soil analysis can reveal phosphorus levels and other contributing factors
– Distorted leaves (copper) – accurate soil analysis is crucial to determine copper and other micronutrient concentrations

To determine which elements need supplementation, conduct a soil analysis with Kynoch Fertilizer’s expert testing services. Kynoch Fertilizer offers:

– Soil analysis to measure nutrient levels and identify deficiencies
– Leaf analysis to assess plant nutrient uptake and utilisation
– NVDI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) precision services using KynoPrecise software for advanced crop monitoring and management

With accurate test results, Kynoch Fertilizer can create a tailored fertiliser blend to restore the nutrient balance. Kynoch also offers personalised solutions and a range of granular and liquid fertilisers containing selected micronutrients in various proportions.

In addition to providing personalised solutions, Kynoch Fertilizer offers a wide range of granular and liquid fertilisers containing selected micronutrients in various proportions. You are welcome to click here for more details about these and other world-class Kynoch Fertilizer products.

The post Ensure Your Plants Have Enough Essential Micronutrients first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.

The two main nutrients that support excellent root growth in plants are phosphorous and potassium. These two ingredients are extremely helpful in any fertiliser mix that needs to encourage a thick, healthy collection of brand-new roots, or to strengthen and stimulate existing systems. These fertiliser mixes are perfect for the plant’s active growing season, and as a bonus, if you’re looking for a beautifully colourful garden, phosphorus will also stimulate fruit and flower production.

The N-P-K Rule of the Green Finger

Most store-bought fertilisers will have an N-P-K ratio displayed on the bag. This ratio will indicate the percentages of nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K) within the mixture respectively. If you’re looking for a mixture that stimulates root growth, ensure that the first number is always significantly lower than the following two. For example, 3-20-20 indicates three per cent nitrogen, twenty per cent phosphorous, and twenty per cent potassium. Nitrogen promotes green leggy growth at the expense of flowering, fruiting and strong, healthy root growth.

For the Green, Green Fingers

Organic gardens enjoy natural sources of phosphorous and potassium. A good-grade organic mixture containing the two ingredients will consistently release them into the soil at a slow pace. Because they release nutrients more moderately, they are considered to be slow-release fertilisers that will continuously stimulate root growth. Mixtures of rock phosphate and bone meal are good for phosphate content while kelp or wood ashes are really good sources of potassium. Some of these mixtures may also contain small amounts of magnesium and iron which are also good for your plants.

The Importance of Mycorrhizal Fungi in Root Growth and Nutrient Uptake

Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and root growth. These fungi increase the surface area of roots, allowing for greater absorption of nutrients and water. In return, plants provide fungi with carbohydrates produced during photosynthesis.

Tips from the Great Green Fingers

To stimulate root growth early but delay fruiting and flowering, dig your phosphorous and potassium mixtures into the soil roughly six inches deep, mixing the fertiliser with the soil thoroughly. Do this before the plants or seedlings are planted. For improved results, sufficient sun needs to be made available to the plants by their botanical species and plenty of water needs to follow.

The Role of Cover Crops in Promoting Root Growth and Soil Health

Cover crops promote root growth and soil health by adding organic matter, reducing erosion, and providing habitat for beneficial microorganisms. Legume cover crops, such as clover or beans, fix nitrogen, benefiting subsequent crops.

Once the plant begins to grow, you can then apply the nutrients to the plant with a liquid fertiliser. This will then stimulate flowering and fruiting at a later stage while still encouraging root growth.

Strategies for Optimising Root Growth in Challenging Soil Conditions

In challenging soil conditions, such as saline, acidic, or alkaline soils, root growth can be optimised through:

– Selecting tolerant crop varieties
– Applying amendments to adjust soil pH or reduce salinity
– Using precision irrigation to manage water stress
– Incorporating organic matter to improve soil structure

How Soil Structure and Compaction Affect Root Growth

Soil structure and compaction significantly impact root growth. Well-structured soils with adequate pore space allow roots to grow freely, while compacted soils restrict root development. Compaction can be managed through reduced tillage, cover cropping, and incorporating organic matter.

The Green Finger’s Choice

It’s not what you use, it’s who makes what you use. When it comes to successfully cultivated root growth, Kynoch has to be your choice. Kynoch is an acknowledged leader in innovative plant nutrition, bringing new technologies to the field of botany and horticulture. We strive to complement our clients’ businesses through the use of Yield Enhancing Technologies and future innovation. If we don’t have what you need, we’ll mix it for you. Whether farm, field, or flower bed, Kynoch will get it growing.

The Impact of Climate Change on Root Growth and Agricultural Productivity

Climate change affects root growth and agricultural productivity through altered temperature and precipitation patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and rising CO2 levels. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing adaptive strategies.

The Use of Precision Agriculture Techniques to Monitor and Manage Root Growth

Precision agriculture techniques, such as soil sensors and imaging technologies, enable monitoring of root growth and soil conditions. This information can be used to optimize irrigation, fertilisation, and other management practices.

The Potential of Genetic Engineering to Enhance Root Growth and Nutrient Uptake in Crops

Genetic engineering offers potential for enhancing root growth and nutrient uptake in crops. Researchers are exploring genes that promote root development, nutrient efficiency, and drought tolerance.

The post Root Growth: What Can You Use to Promote Root Growth? first appeared on Kynoch Fertilizer.