Farmer

Farming covers the production of almost all kinds of animals, crops, fruits and vegetables suitable for a moderate to subtropical climate. Farmers are responsible for most of the production of a country's foodstuffs either through crop or stock farming. Another important responsibility of farmers is the conservation of the country's natural resources.

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Farmers combine agricultural and business methods in operating small or large farms. Farmers’ objectives are to make farming activities productive, profitable and professional.

The nature of the work differs according to the size and type of farm. The topography, climate and vegetation of an area determine the type of farming practised. On small farms, farmers may perform the actual labour, as well as plan and direct farming operations.

With crop farming, farmers perform a wide range of duties, such as determining land use, planting, fertilising, spraying, cultivating and harvesting procedures as well as marketing.

On livestock farms, farmers take care of animals. The correct breeding or incubation programme as well as feeding programmes, need to be followed. Pastures have to be planned and controlled in such a way that enough grazing will be available for the animals. Animals must also be vaccinated against illnesses. Wool, meat and dairy products need to be processed and marketed.

Farmers are also employers. The number of labourers each farmer employs is in direct proportion to the size and profitability of the farm and the degree of mechanisation. Farmers need to be well informed on all legislation that regulates labour relations in agriculture.

Farmers evaluate existing practices and look at methods for improvements. They maintain financial records, purchase supplies, determine labour needs and hire and supervise workers.

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Personal Requirements

• enjoy working outdoors, in all weather conditions
• like working with plants and/or animals
• perseverance, diligence and patience
• organisational ability
• good planning, analytical and problem solving skills
• good leadership qualities and interpersonal relationships
• good health and physical strength, stamina and agility
• ability to endure isolation and limited social contact
• independent, responsible and self-disciplined
• mechanical aptitude and able to work with computers

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Employment

• large farming corporations
• owners of large farms
• Department of Agriculture
• Department of Health
• Department of Land Affairs
• universities, universities of technology and agricultural colleges
• self-employment, with own farm

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Getting Started

• try to obtain vacation work as a farm-hand
• grow vegetables in your own garden
• keep and care for pets
• arrange to visit different farms and speak to farmers about this type of career

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Programmes

Boston City Campus and Business College does not offer a programme that leads directly to this occupation. Please take a look at the related occupations below to see whether any of these appeal to you. Alternately, please send an email to taryn@boston.co.za and a Student Advisor will call you back.

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Bursaries

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Related Occupations

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