422.59 Hectares of Prime Agricultural Land with a mature Apple Orchard

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Free State, this expansive commercial farm represents a prime investment opportunity for those seeking to capitalize on the region's rich agricultural potential. The property spans across a diverse landscape, integrating both arable land and grazing fields, all meticulously maintained to ensure high productivity and sustainability. 

Farming activity

Agricultural Farm (Irrigation and stock)

Irrigation

159.60 ha

Maize, Wheat, Beans, fodder, potatoes

High

Yield: Maize 12.0 - 14.0t/ha, Wheat 6.0 - 7.0 t/ha

Dry land: Medium potential

12.00

ha

Maize, wheat, sunflower, potatoes

Medium

Yield: Maize 4.0 - 4.5t/ha, Wheat 2.0t/ha

Natural Grazing

230.00

Mixed sweet and sour vegetation

Carrying capacity: 

3 - 4 LSU/ha

Used for the running of beef cattle sheep

Farmstead and Waste

20.99

Roads and improvements.

Experience the perfect blend of agriculture and modern farming with this expansive 231-hectare commercial farm, located in the fertile and scenic Eastern Free State. This property offers a diverse range of agricultural opportunities, from apple orchards to grazing fields and crop production.

• Total Area: 422 hectares
• Location: Eastern Free State, known for its rich soil and favorable farming conditions

• Apple Orchard- 14 ha:

  • Varieties: Multiple apple varieties tailored to local and export markets
  • Irrigation: Advanced irrigation system ensuring optimal growth and yield
  • Harvesting Facilities: Modern storage and packing facilities for apples

• Grazing Land - 230 ha:

  • Area: Extensive grazing fields supporting a variety of livestock
  • Water Supply: Natural water sources and well-maintained troughs

• Crop Production:

  • Crops: Versatile land suitable for various crops including maize, wheat, and barley
  • Soil: Fertile and well-maintained soil, ideal for high-yield crop farming
  • Irrigation: Efficient irrigation systems ensuring consistent crop growth

Soil, topography vegetation:

This property forms part of an integral portion to a larger mixed farming enterprise, benefiting from the Elands River, which serves as the primary source for the irrigation system. This region is characterized by a gently undulating landscape interspersed with extensive plateau areas.

Soil Composition:

• Type: High-standard sandy loam soils (Avelon, Westleigh, and Glencoe varieties)
• Clay Content: Approximately 12-15%
• Depth: Varies with topography, averaging between 400mm and 600mm
• Suitability: Ideal for cash crops like maize, wheat, and potatoes

Irrigation:

• Developed Area: Significant portions dedicated to irrigation
• Crops: Maize and other cash crops
• Irrigation System: Nine pivots supplied via the Upper Vaal irrigation scheme
• Water Source: Elands River, pumped through three pump-stations using PVC piping (150-250mm diameter)
• Expected Yields: 12-14 tons of maize/ha and 6-7 tons of wheat/ha under irrigation

Soil Management:

• Lime Application: Grid-sampled with lime applied as recommended
• Dryland Maintenance: Well-maintained with contouring, directional tilling, and watershed management to prevent soil erosion

Grazing and Vegetation:

• Topography Usage: Valleys and slopes utilized for grazing; large marshland sections enhance carrying capacity
• Erosion Control: Minimal erosion despite high rainfall, thanks to adequate coverage
• Carrying Capacity: Rated at 3-4ha/LSU on natural grazing
• Veld Type: Mixed veld with sourveld grassland and a high mix of sweeter grasses like Themeda Triandra and Eragrostis Curvula
• Grazing Quality: High nutritive value during the growing season; can tolerate over-grazing but with reduced production and slower recovery

Weed and Plant Management:

• Grass Quality: Well-grassed property with minimal over-grazing signs
• Weed Infestation: Minimal, with an ongoing eradication program
• Specific Weeds: Turpentine grass (Tamboekie) and Bankkrotbos/Slagbos are actively managed

• Farm Infrastructure:

  • Apple warehouse
  • Cold room 
  • Farmhouse : Comfortable and spacious farmhouse with modern amenities
  • Worker Accommodation: Housing facilities for farm workers
  • Storage: Multiple sheds and barns for equipment and produce storage
  • Machinery: Includes essential farming equipment and machinery

• Water Resources:

  • Dams: Several dams and water reservoirs ensuring a reliable water supply
  • Boreholes: Multiple boreholes providing consistent water for irrigation and livestock
    

• Accessibility:

  • Road Access: Well-maintained roads providing easy access to the farm
  • Proximity to Markets: Conveniently located near major markets and transport routes

This farm offers a lucrative investment opportunity for both experienced farmers and investors seeking to enter the agricultural sector. The diversity of farming activities ensures a steady income stream throughout the year, and the fertile land guarantees high productivity.