Organic Farming in South Africa involves producing food crops and livestock in harmony with nature. This means using water - wise crops, improving soil quality , the economic use of water, and ensuring the humane management of a animals. Farmers use traditional and modern farming methods and combine it with research to ensure a balance into nature's ecosystems. No chemical fertilizer and pesticides or herbicides are allowed.
How to Start Organic Farming 
A farmer who wants to start organic farming should have knowledge of the following:
- What is expected of an organic farmer?
- Which products are allowed in organic farming?
- Which agricultural methods are used in organic farming?
- How to register & get certified as an organic producer?
- How and where to market organic products?
Organic Farming Certification
In South Africa, there are 2 certification agencies, namely Afrisco and Ecocert. There is growing support for the organic sector. This means that it is set to have a significant impact on the agricultural industry. However, there are still regulations that farmers have to meet for their organic farms. These include being audited and having the soil tested for any harmful chemicals. This is all an effort to continue to build the organic farming industry in South Africa.
There is a increasing demand for organic produce in the country and even more due to water restrictions in some provinces. Consumers want assurances that what they are buying is 100% organic. This is where a certification can help immensely in reaching the commercial market. When certified, your products will have a label placed on them for retailers, alerting consumers that your products are organic.
Benefits of Organic Farming 
Organic farming in South Africa brings with it an abundance of benefits. These benefits include:
Less compacted soil - One of the major benefits of organic farming is that the soil becomes less compacted. This makes tilling and planting easier and more efficient and also helps to prevent soil erosion.
Reduce production cost - Less equipment are used which means that there will be less production costs to incur.
Improved health of workers - By using less harmful chemicals, workers will have improved health. They will not breathing in herbicides and pesticides or pesticides, making it for a safer and healthier work environment.