Synnefa Articles

When we think of food safety, we tend to think about food-borne illnesses and contaminated meat. However, there are other issues that we should be aware of. One of these issues is soil-borne pathogens which can infect our crops directly or via the environment. These soil borne pathogens can cause severe diseases such as hepatitis E (HEV) and Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) also known as mad cow disease. It is important that we focus on food safety issues in modern agriculture because these will have a large impact on quality of life, health, and well being. 

Fungi can cause significant damage to plants in your greenhouse, resulting in reduced yields and even death to some species. It is important to take steps to prevent and control the growth of fungi in order to ensure a successful crop yield. This blog will provide an overview of the different types of greenhouses, common fungi types, preventative measures, metal greenhouses, and treatments available for controlling existing fungi growth. For instance, check out the fungal growth on this plant - in white. 

Agriculture is a key sector of the African economy, contributing 10% to GDP, 8% of employment, and 25% of exports according to the World Bank. In some countries, agriculture accounts for more than half of all jobs. This sector is also critical to improving food security outcomes in Africa. Food insecurity affects more than two thirds of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and nearly a third globally. It constrains sustainable economic growth and poses serious public health consequences for its victims. 

The market for farm products is growing rapidly and this is good for farmers. However, it can also be overwhelming for a farmer who's trying to sell their product. This is because there are so many factors to consider when trying to market your farm products. Some are logistical, such as the type of packaging you use, the right size box, how you present the products in the store and even how you approach the media aspect. Others are more marketing oriented such as finding out who your target customers are and what they want. 

Ever heard of the phrase “Small-scale producers feed the nation?"

Kales are an excellent source of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. They have been hailed as the world's most nutritious vegetable. What's more is that they require little or no cooking to be consumed. With so much goodness and nutrients packed in the said vegetable (This green is packed with protein, calcium, iron, vitamin A, fibre, and anti-cancer properties), there are different types of this vegetable around us and it makes it important to know the differences among them.

Women play a critical role in the future of food security. There is an increasing interest and participation of women in agricultural activities as trends toward improved efficiency and environmental sustainability continue. Women also provide the effects by working together around the table, rather than apart from each other, in their respective communities and making decisions for better opportunities for themselves, their families and others. 

Deciding which of the farmers or small businesses within the agribusiness industry to contact first will be one of the hardest steps you will have to take. 

A greenhouse is a magnificent treasure to any crop. It lets gardeners make the most of the sun, extending the seasons, and yield a wide range of high-grade crops. With the help of your greenhouse, you can sustain a very fruitful harvest at any time of the year. Proper planning plays a very important role. Check the space, the soil, the temperature and water sources.

Growing tomatoes is often the driving force behind starting a vegetable garden, and every tomato lover dreams of growing the perfect tomato that is firm yet succulent, sweet but tangy and flawless.