Category: A

adsorbent: Able to adsorb something such as a gas or vapor. Using adsorbents can help farmers manage soil health and environmental impacts.

agricultural burning: The burning of agricultural waste as part of farming practice, e.g., stubble burning. Understanding regulations and best practices for agricultural burning helps farmers manage waste and prevent environmental harm.

adipose: Containing or made of fat. Farmers need to understand adipose tissue in livestock for effective breeding and health management.

Agriculture Act 1968: An Act of Parliament which defines what constitutes livestock and makes it an offense to cause unnecessary pain or distress to a farm animal. Understanding this act helps farmers comply with animal welfare regulations and maintain ethical practices.

ammoniacal nitrogen: Nitrogen derived from ammonia. Managing ammoniacal nitrogen levels helps farmers optimize soil fertility and crop production.

algicide: A substance used to kill algae. Using algicides helps farmers manage algae growth in water sources and maintain water quality for irrigation and livestock.

agri-food: Relating to industries which are involved in the mass production, processing, and inspection of food products made from agricultural commodities. Farmers benefit from understanding agri-food industries to improve their market access and product quality.

Agricultural Holdings Act 1984: An Act of Parliament which gives protection to tenants in questions of the fixing of rent and security of tenure. It makes provision for tenancies for a lifetime and for short-term lettings. Understanding this act helps farmers and landowners navigate tenancy agreements and rights.

acaricide: A substance used to kill mites and ticks. Using acaricides helps farmers protect their livestock from parasites, ensuring better health and productivity.

abscission: The shedding of a leaf or fruit due to the formation of a layer of cells between the leaf or fruit and the rest of the plant. Farmers need to manage this process to maintain crop yield and quality.

Animal Health Divisional Office: One of 24 regional branches of the State Veterinary Service. Abbr AHDO. Farmers benefit from the services provided by AHDO to manage animal health and comply with regulations.

alkali: A substance which reacts with an acid to form a salt and water. It may be either a soluble base or a solution of a base that has a pH value of more than 7. Understanding alkalinity helps farmers manage soil pH for optimal crop growth.

alley cropping: The planting of crops such as maize or sorghum between trees. The trees help to prevent soil erosion, especially on slopes, and may benefit soil fertility if the leaves are used as mulch or if the trees are legumes. Implementing alley cropping practices helps farmers improve soil health and crop yields.

acidification: The process of becoming acid or making a substance more acid. Acidification of soil can affect crop yields, so farmers must use appropriate amendments to maintain soil health.