The weather was a key focus this week, not only because the 2018/19 summer grain planting window has recently opened in the eastern and central parts of South Africa, but also because of the mixed weather prospects for the season.

Although South Africa’s dam levels continue to lose water week-on-week due to the recent heat wave, the current rains across major parts of the country are expected to boost the dire situation in the next few days.

Did you ever wonder what causes that earthy smell that rises after a light summer rain? That mysterious scent has been called “petrichor”, and a main component of it is an organic compound called geosmin, which lingers around moist soil.

The start of South Africa's 2022/23 summer season has brought heavy rains across most regions with varied agricultural implications.

The start of SA’s 2022/2023 summer season has brought heavy rains across most regions, with varied agricultural implications. The horticultural industry, specifically fruit, has been keenly watching whether they would damage orchards.