We are busy compiling and editing the contents of the second edition of our e-book, the Smallholder’s Companion. We expect to release it later this year. But we want your help.

Here are the contents of the 1st edition, published a decade ago. The second edition will be completely overhauled and expanded to include the changed needs and interests of today’s smallholder and rural dweller.

Please suggest what YOU would like to see covered in the new edition. Simply email us your suggestions at editor@sasmallholder.co.za

Gauteng Smallholder’s Companion ~ 2014

Contents

Chapter 1          –     Introduction to smallholding life

Chapter 2          –     Ensuring sufficient water

Chapter 3          –     Pumps, irrigation & water storage

Chapter 4          –     Sewage management: Septic tanks & grey water

Chapter 5          –     Fencing & Security

Chapter 6          –     How to string a fence

Chapter 7          –     Large equipment: Tractors

Chapter 8          –     Implements

Chapter 9          –     Animal traction

Chapter 10        –     Small powered equipment

Chapter 11        –     Safety in the workshop

Chapter 12        –     Keeping poultry & waterfowl

Chapter 13        –     Incubation, incubation times

Chapter 14        –     Building a pond for waterfowl

Chapter 15        –     Keeping livestock

Chapter 16        –     Buying quality feed

Chapter 17        –     Animal identification: Brands, tattoos and the law

Chapter 18        –     What to do when you auction livestock

Chapter 19        –     Animal health management

Chapter 20        –     Slaughtering your livestock

Chapter 21        –     Beekeeping

Chapter 22        –     Compost and waste management

Chapter 23        –     Cultivation

Chapter 24        –     Planning for the table: sensible vegetable growing

Chapter 25        –     Preserving your produce

Chapter 26        –     Veld management and fodder growing

Chapter 27        –     Trees

Chapter 28        –     Fire prevention & management

Chapter 29        –     Energy matters

Chapter 30        –     Intensive horticulture: Shadecloth, tunnels, hydroponics, aeroponics  etc

Chapter 31        –     Businesses for smallholders

Chapter 32        –     Conservation & conservancies

Chapter 33        –     Legislation

Chapter 34        –     Reading list