SPRING SUMMER BONUS MAGAZINE 2026

Picture 4: Sow pens in a gestation house Management is also far more complex. Farmers need good knowledge of heat detection, mating management, pregnancy care, farrowing assistance, piglet care, and disease control. Cash flow is also slower in a breeding system. A sow must first be mated, complete pregnancy, farrow piglets, and raise them before the pigs can eventually be sold. This entire process takes several months before income is generated, which can place pressure on farmers with limited startup capital. Comparison between the two It makes financial sense for startup farmers to begin with weaners and slowly build a sow herd over time as they learn husbandry skills along the way. Buying weaners allows startup farmers with limited resources to gain experience, strengthen cash flow, and reduce financial risk before taking on the complexity of breeding. Smart steps for startup farmers Startup farmers should focus on growing gradually and sustainably. Beginning with a manageable number of pigs allows the farmer to learn without taking excessive financial risks. Careful recordkeeping is essential because feed, medicine, labour, and mortality costs directly affect profitability. Farmers should also plan when building infrastructure. Even if the operation starts with weaners, future expansion into breeding should be considered during farm planning. Constructing proper drainage systems, water supply, waste management systems, and pen layouts can make future growth easier and more cost- effective. Most importantly, profits should be reinvested into improving the business. Expanding slowly, improving housing, strengthening biosecurity, and investing in quality breeding stock are often better strategies than expanding too quickly without proper planning. Pig farming is a marathon, not a sprint. Long- term success comes through patience, discipline, proper management, and wise reinvestment. Feature Buying weaners Keeping sows Initial cost Low High Cash flow speed Fast Slow Management Simple Complex Long-term profit Medium High Risk Lower short-term Higher short-term, long-term payoff For more information regarding strategic choices for startup pig farmers, please contact your De Heus technical advisor –https://www.deheus.co.za/meet-our-team. Table 1: Weaners vs sows: cost and performance overview www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com Spring/Summer 2026 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 32