Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
seed certification: The testing, sealing and labelling of seed sold to farmers. This ensures that the seed is free from disease and from weeds. Farmers benefit from seed certification to ensure high-quality and disease-free seeds for planting.
export refunds: Refunds made by the EU to farmers to compensate for a lower export price for produce. Accessing export refunds helps farmers manage financial stability and market fluctuations.
minimal disease herd: a herd of livestock with a very low level of infectious diseases. Managing minimal disease herds can help farmers ensure better livestock health and productivity, reducing mortality rates and improving profitability.
veterinarian: Same as veterinary surgeon. Consulting a veterinarian can ensure proper animal health care and disease management on the farm.
Cubed Concentrates: Cubed concentrates plural noun concentrates for livestock in the form of small cubes. Utilizing cubed concentrates enhances feed quality and management for livestock.
agroecosystem: A community of organisms in a crop-producing area. Managing agroecosystems helps farmers create resilient and productive agricultural environments.
Beaumont period: A period of 48 hours with temperatures above 10°C and relative humidity above 75%, likely indicating potato blight. Farmers should monitor weather conditions and apply preventive treatments during Beaumont periods.
reversible plough: A plough with left- and right-handed mouldboards, which make it possible to plough up and down the same furrow. Using reversible ploughs improves soil management and reduces erosion.
kemp-free mohair: Kemp-free mohair – mohair which does not have any kemp. Helps farmers produce high-quality mohair.
nylon: a synthetic material made from polymers, used in ropes, strings, etc. Nylon is a durable and versatile material used in various agricultural applications, including fencing, netting, and equipment components. Farmers can benefit from using nylon products for their strength, weather resistance, and longevity. Understanding the properties and appropriate uses of nylon supports effective farm management and maintenance. Utilizing high-quality materials like nylon enhances farm efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures reliable performance in agricultural operations.
Flood Irrigation: A method of irrigation using water brought down by a river in flood. The floodwaters are led off into specially prepared basins. Proper flood irrigation techniques ensure efficient water use and crop irrigation.
biopolymer: A naturally occurring polymer, such as proteins or polysaccharides. Using biopolymers in farming, such as biodegradable mulches, supports sustainable practices.
summer feeding: the feeding of cattle on permanent pastures in the summer months. Properly managing summer feeding ensures efficient use of pastures and livestock productivity, supporting farm profitability.
synthetic fertiliser: a fertiliser made from synthetic materials. Compare organic fertiliser. Understanding and using synthetic fertilisers effectively supports soil fertility and healthy crop growth, enhancing farm productivity.
A primal cut of beef obtained from the shoulder area, known for its rich flavor and versatility. Chuck is commonly used for roasts and ground beef. For example, processing chuck into pot roasts and burgers.
The practices and policies that promote a healthy balance between work and personal life for employees in the food production and distribution process, including flexible scheduling and remote work options. For example, implementing food product work-life balance policies to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity.
Light Soil: Light soil is soil consisting mainly of large particles which are loosely held together because of the relatively large pore space. Light soil is usually easier to cultivate than heavy soil, but may dry out too quickly. Understanding soil types and their properties can help farmers choose appropriate crops and cultivation methods.
Layers Ailments: Layers ailments are disorders of fowls in lay, especially birds that are in heavy production. These disorders include egg binding, internal laying, and layers cramp. Managing layers ailments through proper nutrition and care can improve poultry health and egg production.
poultryman: A farm worker who looks after and raises poultry. Helpful content: Skilled poultrymen are vital for successful poultry operations. Their expertise in bird care, feeding, and disease management can significantly impact productivity and flock health.
Family Farm: A farm unit owned and operated by one family. Family farms often focus on sustainable practices and community-oriented farming.
greenhouse: A greenhouse is a structure made of glass inside which plants are grown. Using greenhouses allows farmers to extend growing seasons, protect plants from adverse weather, and increase crop yields.
Chromosomal: Referring to chromosomes. Understanding chromosomal structures and functions aids farmers in managing plant and animal breeding for optimal productivity.
vitamin B12: A water-soluble vitamin found especially in liver, milk, and eggs but not in vegetables, and important for blood formation, nerve function, and growth. Adequate vitamin B12 intake can prevent anemia and improve health in livestock.
bedding plants: Small annual flower plants used for bedding out. Growing and selling bedding plants can diversify farm income.
vegetation: Plants that are growing or the set of plants that is found in a particular area. Proper management of vegetation can improve soil health, prevent erosion, and support biodiversity on the farm.
Clun Forest: A hardy grass hill breed of sheep with fine dense fleece, a dark brown face, and a permanent topknot. Raising Clun Forest sheep provides high-quality wool and meat, contributing to farm productivity and income.
The process of preparing for the transfer of dairy farm ownership and management to the next generation or new owners. For example, developing a dairy farm succession plan to ensure a smooth transition and preserve the farm’s legacy.
A highly contagious viral disease in cattle, causing respiratory and reproductive problems. IBR is managed through vaccination and herd management practices. For example, vaccinating cattle against IBR to prevent respiratory disease and reproductive losses.
neutralise: neutralise, verb to make an acid neutral. Acid in drainage water can be neutralized by limestone. To make a bacterial toxin harmless by combining it with the correct amount of antitoxin. To counteract the effect of something. Neutralizing harmful substances in soil, water, or livestock environments is essential for maintaining farm productivity and safety. Farmers can benefit from understanding neutralization processes and using appropriate materials to mitigate the impact of acids, toxins, and other harmful agents. Effective neutralization practices ensure healthier crops, livestock, and overall farm sustainability.
interbreed: To mate and have offspring. To cross animals or plants with different characteristics to produce offspring with distinctive features. Helps farmers manage breeding programs.
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