Achieving food security in Mzansi is an ongoing goal for farmers and the government. In pursuit of this goal, farmers are encouraged to adopt cultivation methods that are sustainable while also meeting the demand for food. One such method is the intercropping of indigenous vegetables, which addresses both these concerns.
In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, Dr Buhlebelive Mndzebele, a senior research technician at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), highlights the significant potential of intercropping indigenous vegetables for small-scale farmers in South Africa.
His research underscores the benefits of using crops like cowpea and amaranth – which are sometimes overlooked – to enhance soil health and crop yields.
Mndzebele discusses his study that aims to empower farmers to achieve food security through sustainable agricultural practices, reduce reliance on external inputs, and promote the resilience of local food systems.
“Our indigenous vegetables are highly adaptable… these can grow without extensive resources like fertilisers and even water. Intercropping with indigenous vegetables is one of the sustainable methodologies,” he explains.
Related stories
- Intercropping of indigenous veggies ideal for small-scale farmers
- In pictures: Indigenous medicinal plants take root in CT townships
- Amaranth: Explore the farming potential of this indigenous crop
Indigenous vegetables and intercropping
Mndzebele discusses the resilience of indigenous vegetables such as the legume cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), which require minimal resources and can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. These crops are highly adaptable and can better withstand climate variability.
He says intercropping involves planting different crops close together, which maximises land use efficiency and improves soil health through root interactions that minimise erosion and enhance nutrient availability.
Leguminous crops like cowpea fix atmospheric nitrogen, thereby reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers and improving soil structure over time.
“So, when you plant a legume, you indirectly reduce the need for applying fertiliser to the companion crop growing alongside it. Legumes, as they decompose, contribute organic matter to the soil, enhancing soil structure and nutrient content,” he adds.
This innovative approach not only improves productivity and food security but also aligns with the growing need to adopt sustainable farming methods.
In this episode, Mndzebele also addresses:
- Policy support for similar studies like these;
- Tips and suggestions for farmers who want to do intercropping.
Want to know more? Dive deeper into the episode and gain insights from the award-winning Farmer’s Inside Track, officially recognised as Africa and the world’s best podcast at the 2024 Digital Media Awards presented by WAN-IFRA, the global press organisation.
Option 1: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices)
Option 2: Click here to listen on any Apple device
Sign up for Farmer’s Inside Track: Join our exclusive platform for new entrants into farming and agri-business, with newsletters and podcasts.
