As winter’s chill sets in across South Africa, the perfect window for planting a range of cool-season crops has arrived. While some crops can grow year-round, others thrive best during these colder months, offering a fresh start for both novice and seasoned growers.
In a recent Health For Mzansi article, Mzansi farmers and agronomists share their insights on winter planting, dropping valuable tips for anyone eager to cultivate a thriving garden or farm.
Mphathi Motha of Soul Indigenous Life in Gauteng reveals that they used to only grow one type of crop in a given area.
“In the beginning, we focused mostly on Swiss chard and practised monoculture,” he explains. “But over the years, we started using companion planting, and during winter, we now work with a mix of crops.”
Related stories
- Farmers cash in as goat meat gets gourmet makeover
- Citron melon: The humble fruit that fed generations
- Modified atmosphere packaging a game-changer for fresh produce
Smart techniques for winter success
Nkululeko Motloung from Plenty Green Africa in Tsakane offers another angle, emphasising how winter gardening can be just as fruitful as any other season.
Using smart methods such as shade netting, mulching, and raised beds, his team has perfected winter-friendly crops like beetroot, broccoli, and garlic.
“Over the years, we’ve successfully grown a wide range of crops by adjusting to local microclimates and using methods like shade netting, mulching, and raised beds.”
Motloung even shares that lettuce varieties thrive under shade nets, staying cleaner and growing faster – a handy tip for gardeners and commercial growers alike.
Meanwhile, Mokgomotsi Morodi, an agronomist from Limpopo, provides essential groundwork advice and shares his reliable crop picks.
This article was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Vateka Halile.
READ NEXT: Polluted rivers contaminate SA’s food chain, threaten exports
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
