FARMERS’ DIARIES

SHEEP

Tshepisho Tladi, a-Mphahlele, Limpopo

We farm Pedi sheep and because it is still winter and the grass is dry, we feed our sheep a winter block from Alzu Feeds. This protein block supplements veld grazing with proteins, carbohydrates and minerals to stimulate intake and veld utilisation. The block provides the correct balance of nutrients to the rumen microbes and helps maintain good body condition.

Compared to previous years we have been fortunate. There is still lots of grass due to the good rainfall we had. We only give a mixture of lucerne and grass in the evening when the animals come back from the veld.

Previously we had to supplement with sheep pellets and crushed) seeds, also known as moselesele, which they love. We collect the sickle bush seeds every winter and store them, but this year we still have surplus left over from last year’s harvest. And they are still plentiful in the veld where the animals graze.