The Key To Successful Farming-Casper Botha, Owner Castello Farming

According to Casper, the most important things to keep in mind first and foremost are that, good budgeting and financial discipline are two key factors for achieving success in any farming venture. Another important aspect is to have a competent and reliable labor force.

“I trust my workers 100%. Your personnel are crucial to make your dreams become a reality,”Casper says. He believes that each staff member on his farms, from the laborer to the farm manager, must see the business as his or her own. “Castello Farming is not just my project, it belongs to everyone involved in the business. Each person must take full ownership for his or her responsibility.”

Castello Farming is operational from South Africa’s North West Province. Botha produces potatoes for well-known frozen chips manufacturer McCain and sunflower seeds for Pannar Seed. He is further involved in commercial maize and wheat production as well as cattle rearing.

Casper Botha first started farming in 1990 with only a dairy business. Through hard work and perseverance he has built the business to what it is today. He is a firm believer in humble beginnings. “Just like a baby first needs to crawl and stand before it can walk and run, so it is with farming. If you start with big steps you are going to fall hard,” he adds on.