Abstract
In this study, the information such as biographical information of the vegetable farmers, information about the vegetable gardens or farms, the current vegetable farming practices, irrigation practices on the vegetable soil and the farmers’ physical and financial records were assessed. The assessment was conducted through interviews and questionnaires. Seventy three point three percent of the farmers’ respondents farm on communal land whereas 33.3% of the respondents are farming on land size of two to four hectares. A model was developed to reflect the process vegetable farmers must follow when acquiring communal land from the Chief for vegetable production. Sixty six point seven percent plough the garden soil to the depth of 30cm. Of the twenty-eight respondents, 85.7% are planting in seedbeds while the rest are planting on ordinary rows without seedbeds. The findings of this study will guide vegetables farmers towards best practices on vegetable production. Keywords: Vegetable, Irrigation, Practices, Soils and Assessments
Highlights
The study was undertaken within QwaQwa and Clarens districts
A total of thirty vegetable farmers were randomly selected to participate in the survey study and Clarence participated in the study
The challenge lies in redirecting research and development efforts, as well as lending a helping hand to bring this new clientele into the fold
Summary
The study was undertaken within QwaQwa and Clarens districts. In QwaQwa, the villages of Phuthaditjhaba, Makwane, Namahadi and Hasethunya were included. A total of thirty vegetable farmers were randomly selected to participate in the survey study and Clarence participated in the study. Before 1994, agricultural research and development efforts in South Africa focused mainly on commercial farmers, neglecting small scale farmers to a large extent. The challenge lies in redirecting research and development efforts, as well as lending a helping hand to bring this new clientele into the fold. The range of areas or farmers requiring attention includes vegetable gardens in urban and peri-urban areas, small farmers, community farmers and reserve settlement areas (Saunderson, 1995: 165-165). Vegetable production is influenced by a large number of factors including soil, climate, markets and availability of water
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