Why SA’s grain sector must invest in research
Why is research so important for sustainable grain production?
Sustainable and profitable grain production relies on applying best practices for the specific environment, inputs and production system used. The interactions between these factors are complex, and if any factor changes, the farmer needs to know how to react. Research is required to understand these changing environments.
An example of this is herbicide resistance in weeds. It takes years of research from the time that resistance is discovered to develop a new herbicide.
Another example is rust pathogens. These are always changing, so ongoing research is needed to improve plant genetics and sustain their pathogen resistance.
Why are commodity organisations getting involved with research?
