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Cabbages | What is the best planting season for cabbages in South Coast, Durban? | The best time to plant cabbages is late summer to early autumn (February–April) to avoid excessive heat and pests. |
Cabbages | What soil conditions are ideal for cabbage growth? | Cabbages require well-drained, fertile loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. |
Cabbages | How can I naturally control cabbage pests like aphids and diamondback moths? | Use neem oil, introduce ladybugs as natural predators, and intercrop with marigolds to repel pests. |
Cabbages | What irrigation method is best for cabbages in this region? | Drip irrigation or furrow irrigation is recommended to maintain consistent soil moisture. |
Cabbages | How often should I fertilize my cabbages? | Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer (LAN or compost) every two weeks during early growth stages. |
Cabbages | How do I prevent cabbage heads from splitting? | Avoid excessive watering and nitrogen application when heads are forming. |
Cabbages | What is the best companion plant for cabbages? | Planting onions, garlic, or marigolds nearby helps deter pests. |
Cabbages | How can I protect cabbages from heat stress in summer? | Use shade nets and mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture. |
Cabbages | What is the best way to store harvested cabbages? | Store at 0°C with high humidity (90–95%) for long-term freshness. |
Cabbages | How do I improve cabbage yield per hectare? | Proper crop rotation, soil testing, and high-quality seedlings can boost yields. |
Green Peppers | When is the best time to plant green peppers in KwaZulu-Natal? | Spring (August–October) and late summer (January–March) are ideal planting periods. |
Green Peppers | What soil type is best for growing green peppers? | Well-drained loamy soil with a pH of 6.2–7.0, rich in organic matter. |
Green Peppers | How can I prevent blossom end rot in green peppers? | Ensure consistent watering and calcium-rich soil to prevent this disorder. |
Green Peppers | What is the ideal spacing for green peppers? | Space plants 40–50 cm apart in rows 60–90 cm apart for good airflow. |
Green Peppers | How do I manage aphids and whiteflies on green peppers? | Use neem oil, interplant with basil, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs. |
Green Peppers | How often should I water green peppers? | Water deeply 2–3 times a week, ensuring the top 5–7 cm of soil stays moist. |
Green Peppers | What fertilizer is best for green peppers? | Apply balanced NPK fertilizer (5:10:10) and supplement with calcium and magnesium. |
Green Peppers | How do I maximize green pepper yield? | Pruning lower leaves, staking, and using mulch help boost production. |
Green Peppers | What temperature range is best for green pepper growth? | Green peppers thrive between 20°C and 30°C. |
Green Peppers | How can I extend the shelf life of harvested green peppers? | Store at 7–10°C with high humidity to prevent shriveling. |
Jam Tomatoes | What is the best variety of jam tomatoes for South Coast, Durban? | Roma VF and Heinz 1370 are well-suited for warm coastal conditions. |
Jam Tomatoes | How should I prepare soil for tomato farming? | Ensure well-drained loamy soil with a pH of 5.5–6.8, rich in compost. |
Jam Tomatoes | What is the best way to prevent tomato blight? | Rotate crops, avoid overhead watering, and use copper-based fungicides. |
Jam Tomatoes | How do I manage nematodes in tomato plants? | Solarize soil before planting and use resistant rootstock varieties. |
Jam Tomatoes | What is the best spacing for jam tomato plants? | Space plants 50 cm apart in rows 90–100 cm apart. |
Jam Tomatoes | How often should tomatoes be watered? | Water deeply 2–3 times a week, especially during fruiting. |
Jam Tomatoes | What is the best fertilizer for jam tomatoes? | Use NPK 5:15:15 during early growth and calcium nitrate during fruiting. |
Jam Tomatoes | How do I improve fruit quality and taste in jam tomatoes? | Ensure proper calcium and potassium levels and provide even watering. |
Jam Tomatoes | How can I extend the harvesting period of jam tomatoes? | Stagger planting and prune non-productive branches for continuous yields. |
Jam Tomatoes | How should I store jam tomatoes after harvest? | Store at 12–15°C to prevent chilling injury and extend shelf life. |
Marigold Flowers | When should I plant marigold flowers in Durban? | Plant in early spring (August) or late summer (February) for best results. |
Marigold Flowers | What type of soil do marigolds need? | Well-drained sandy loam with a pH of 6.0–7.5 is ideal. |
Marigold Flowers | How much sunlight do marigolds require? | They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. |
Marigold Flowers | What is the best way to prevent fungal diseases in marigolds? | Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation. |
Marigold Flowers | How do I control aphids and spider mites on marigolds? | Spray neem oil or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs. |
Marigold Flowers | How often should I water marigolds? | Water once or twice a week, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering. |
Marigold Flowers | What is the best way to encourage more blooms? | Regular deadheading and applying phosphorus-rich fertilizer (10:20:10). |
Marigold Flowers | How do I use marigolds in companion planting? | Plant near vegetables like tomatoes and cabbages to repel pests. |
Marigold Flowers | How can I make marigold flowers last longer after cutting? | Cut early in the morning and place stems in warm water immediately. |
Marigold Flowers | What is the best way to dry and store marigold flowers? | Hang upside down in a dry, dark place for 2 weeks, then store in airtight containers. |
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