🌾 Boost for Darling Farm as Lime Spreader Lays the Ground for Growth

By: Jay-dee Solomons

There’s a fresh wave of optimism at Sheegra Colenso Farm, nestled at Darling in the Swartland district. The Casidra’s handover of a brand-new lime spreader has delivered a welcome boost to the farm’s grain and livestock production laying the foundation for improved soil health and long-term sustainability.

Established in 2022, The Winter Grain Project is the brainchild of husband-and-wife duo Ivan and Natashia Cleote, who have turned their vision into a thriving, diversified farming enterprise. From lambs and pigs to ewes, sheep, and cattle, the Cleotes rear a variety of livestock while planting their own feed crops to maintain a self-sustaining ecosystem on the farm.

But their journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Like many emerging farmers, they’ve faced tough challenges particularly in managing livestock health and navigating resource constraints. Fortunately, support from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and Casidra has helped them overcome key obstacles. Previous interventions, including a feed mixer and animal feed, significantly boosted operational efficiency and resilience.

Now, with the lime spreader added to their toolkit, the Cleotes are ready to take the next step in enhancing soil quality and boosting crop yields. Healthy soil is the bedrock of sustainable farming, and this new equipment ensures more consistent lime application restoring soil pH levels and creating ideal growing conditions for animal feed crops.

The success of the project is due in no small part to the dedicated support of WCDoA’s Extension Officer, Rebecca Mathobela and Casidra’s Project Manager Mulalo Nemutudi, who have worked hand-in-hand with the Cleotes over the years to reach project goals. Their guidance, technical support, and commitment have been instrumental in helping the farm grow from strength to strength.

Reflecting on their journey, Ivan offers inspiration for others walking a similar path:

“Farming will always be challenging. Having perseverance is key, but passion is what drives you.”

With unwavering determination, growing expertise, and continued support from passionate professionals, the Cleotes are cultivating not just crops and livestock but a resilient farming legacy in the heart of Darling.