Category: D

dump: A place where waste, especially solid waste, is thrown away. Proper waste management practices are essential on farms to prevent environmental contamination and promote sustainability.

deficient: Lacking something essential. For example, the soil is deficient in important nutrients. Scrub plants are well adapted to this moisture-deficient habitat. She has a calcium-deficient diet. Farmers should regularly test soil and animal diets to identify and address deficiencies. Implementing soil amendments, balanced fertilization, and proper nutrition practices can improve crop and livestock health. Working with agricultural extension services can provide guidance on managing deficiencies effectively.

darnel: A common weed (Lolium temulentum) which affects cereals and is poisonous to animals. Effective weed management is crucial for farmers to prevent darnel from infesting cereal crops. Regular monitoring, crop rotation, and the use of herbicides can help control darnel and protect crop yields. Understanding the risks and implementing preventive measures will ensure healthier and more productive fields.

draining pen: A pen for sheep to go in after dipping, where surplus liquid can drain off the wet fleece and go back into the sheep dip. Draining pens help manage the health and hygiene of sheep.

decomposition: The process of breaking down into simple chemical compounds. Decomposition is essential for nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should manage decomposition processes through composting and mulching to enhance soil fertility. Understanding the factors that influence decomposition, such as temperature, moisture, and organic matter quality, can help optimize these processes for better crop productivity.

digestive: Referring to digestion. Digestive health is crucial for maintaining the productivity and welfare of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop diets that promote optimal digestive health. Implementing proper dietary practices and monitoring digestive health will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.

durum: A type of wheat grown in southern Europe and the USA and used in making semolina for processing into pasta. Latin name: Triticum durum. Durum wheat is prized for its high protein content and strong gluten, essential for pasta production.

Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Northern Ireland: The department of regional government which deals with farming, the environment, animal welfare, and rural development in Northern Ireland. Abbr DARDNI. Farmers in Northern Ireland should engage with DARDNI to access resources and support for sustainable farming practices. Utilizing DARDNI’s programs can enhance farm productivity, environmental stewardship, and compliance with regulations. Staying informed about DARDNI initiatives will help farmers adopt best practices and benefit from available opportunities.

damson: A small dark purple plum (Prunus damascena). Damsons are hardy and can be used for making preserves, jams, and desserts. For farmers, growing damson trees can provide a diversified income stream. They require well-drained soil and minimal pruning, making them relatively easy to manage. Farmers should monitor for pests and diseases and ensure proper fertilization to maximize fruit yield.

DDT: An insecticide that was formerly used especially against malaria-carrying mosquitoes. It is now banned in many countries because of its toxicity and ability to accumulate in the environment. Formula: C14H9Cl5. Full form dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. Farmers should be aware of the historical use and current ban on DDT to avoid environmental contamination and legal issues. Understanding alternative pest control methods will help manage pests effectively while complying with regulations and protecting the environment.

defoliate: To make the leaves fall off a plant, especially by using a herbicide or as the result of disease or other stress. Defoliation can be a management tool or a sign of plant stress. Farmers should monitor crops for signs of disease or environmental stress and take appropriate actions to mitigate defoliation. Using defoliants judiciously can help manage crop canopies and improve harvest efficiency. Regular scouting and timely interventions will ensure healthy crop growth and productivity.

dipper: A deep trench into which sheep are guided to be dipped. Using a dipper is an effective method for managing external parasites in sheep. Farmers should ensure proper construction and maintenance of dippers for safe and effective dipping. Understanding the benefits and applications of dippers will aid in effective parasite management and improved livestock welfare.

disbud: To remove buds from a plant to prevent growth, or to remove horn buds from a young animal. Proper disbudding techniques are important for managing plant growth and livestock health. Farmers should use appropriate methods and tools for effective disbudding. Understanding the benefits and applications of disbudding will aid in effective crop and livestock management.

Dutch hoe: An implement with a long handle and a more or less straight D-shaped blade, used with a push-pull action. Dutch hoes are effective for weeding and soil cultivation, helping to manage weeds and improve soil structure.

determination: The process of finding something out by calculation or experiment. Determination of the maximum safe dose. Accurate determination of various factors, such as nutrient levels, soil health, and pest populations, is crucial for effective farm management. Farmers should use reliable methods and tools for accurate determination and decision-making. Understanding the importance of accurate data can help optimize farm operations and improve productivity.

distribution: The spreading of something over an area. Proper distribution of seeds, fertilizer, or pesticides is important for achieving uniform application and optimal results. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and techniques for effective distribution. Understanding the benefits and applications of distribution will aid in effective crop and soil management.

double chop harvester: A type of forage harvester that chops the crop into short lengths rather than just lacerating it. The chopping unit is a vertical rotating disc, usually with three knives and three fan blades. Precision chop forage harvesters improve the efficiency of forage processing.

dehydrate: To remove water from something in order to preserve it. COMMENT: Food can be dehydrated by drying in the sun (as in the case of dried fruit), or by passing through various industrial processes, such as freeze-drying. Dehydration is an effective method for preserving food and reducing waste. Farmers should ensure proper techniques and equipment for dehydrating crops to maintain their quality and nutritional value. Understanding market demands for dehydrated products can help farmers plan their production and marketing strategies.

discontiguous: Referring to an area of land which is not joined together. Managing discontiguous land involves implementing proper land use planning and management practices. Farmers should consider the unique challenges and opportunities of discontiguous land and develop strategies to optimize its use. Understanding the factors contributing to discontiguity will aid in effective land management and farm productivity.

deadnettle: Referring to red deadnettle. Red deadnettle can be a weed in gardens and fields. Farmers and gardeners should manage this plant through regular weeding and the use of herbicides. Understanding its growth patterns and implementing appropriate control methods will help maintain healthy crops and reduce competition for resources.

dewatering: The extraction of water from a crop by pressing, reducing the cost of artificial drying. Dewatering can be an efficient method for reducing moisture content in crops and preparing them for storage or processing. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and techniques to dewater crops effectively. Understanding the benefits and applications of dewatering can help improve post-harvest handling and reduce costs.

DOM: An abbreviation that can refer to digestible organic matter or dry organic matter. Understanding these terms is crucial for farmers managing soil health and composting processes, ensuring that organic matter is effectively used to improve soil fertility.

degradation: The decomposition of a chemical compound into its elements. Managing degradation processes is important for maintaining soil health and preventing pollution. Farmers should implement practices like crop rotation, organic amendments, and proper waste management to enhance degradation and nutrient cycling. Monitoring soil health and adjusting management practices will ensure sustainable and productive farming systems.

Deer Commission for Scotland: An association in Scotland which advises on best practices in wild deer management. Abbr DCS. Farmers involved in deer farming or managing land with wild deer populations should follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by the DCS. Implementing best practices in deer management can improve herd health, reduce disease risk, and enhance the sustainability of deer populations.

domesticate: To breed wild animals so that they become tame and can fill human needs or to breed wild plants, selecting the best strains so that they become useful for food or decoration. Domestication has led to the development of many farm animals and crops that are essential for modern agriculture.

dog: A domesticated carnivorous mammal (Canis lupus familiaris) that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of smell, non-retractable claws, and a barking, howling, or whining voice. Dogs can serve various roles on a farm, including herding livestock, guarding property, and providing companionship. Proper training and care are essential for farm dogs to ensure they are healthy and effective in their roles.

deintensified farming: Farming which was formerly intensive, using chemical fertilizers to increase production, but has now become extensive. Extensification. Deintensified farming focuses on sustainable practices and reduced chemical inputs. Farmers should adopt practices like crop rotation, organic amendments, and integrated pest management to enhance soil health and productivity. Understanding the principles of deintensified farming can help farmers transition to more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.

dipterous: Referring to an insect such as a fly with two wings. Managing dipterous insects involves implementing proper pest control measures and monitoring techniques. Farmers should use integrated pest management practices to reduce the impact of dipterous insects on crops and livestock. Understanding the characteristics and behavior of dipterous insects will aid in developing effective pest management strategies.

dag: A tuft of dirty wool round the tail of a sheep. Regularly removing dags (a process called dagging) is essential for maintaining sheep hygiene and preventing flystrike, a condition where flies lay eggs in the dirty wool, leading to maggot infestations. Keeping sheep clean reduces the risk of disease and improves wool quality.

Dartmoor: A breed of large moorland sheep, white-faced with black spots, and a long curly fleece. Dartmoor sheep are known for their resilience and quality fleece. Farmers raising Dartmoor sheep should focus on proper grazing management, regular shearing, and health monitoring to maintain flock productivity. Marketing the unique characteristics of Dartmoor wool can attract premium buyers.

dietary: Referring to diet. Dietary practices are crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should ensure that animals receive a balanced and nutritious diet, tailored to their specific needs. Working with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop proper dietary plans will help optimize animal health and farm productivity.

dehorning: The process of removing or preventing the growth of horns on livestock. Dehorning can reduce injuries and improve safety in animal handling.

dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane: Full form of DDT, an insecticide that was formerly used especially against malaria-carrying mosquitoes. It is now banned in many countries because of its toxicity and ability to accumulate in the environment. Formula: C14H9Cl5. Farmers should be aware of the historical use and current ban on DDT to avoid environmental contamination and legal issues. Understanding alternative pest control methods will help manage pests effectively while complying with regulations and protecting the environment.

deflector plate: An attachment in a slurry spreader which spreads the slurry over a wide area. Using a deflector plate in slurry spreading can improve the distribution of nutrients and reduce environmental impact. Farmers should ensure proper calibration and maintenance of slurry spreaders to achieve uniform application. Understanding the nutrient content of slurry and matching it to crop needs can enhance soil fertility and crop growth.

domestic: Referring to the home or kept as a farm animal or pet. Domestic animals like dogs, cats, pigs, and goats are integral to farm life, providing companionship, labor, and food. Proper care and management are essential for their well-being.

disintegrate: To break up into small parts. Proper management of disintegration processes is important for maintaining soil health and preventing pollution. Farmers should implement practices like crop rotation, organic amendments, and proper waste management to enhance disintegration and nutrient cycling. Understanding the factors contributing to disintegration will aid in developing effective management strategies.

diploid: Referring to an organism that has two matched sets of chromosomes in a cell nucleus, one set from each parent. NOTE: Each species has a characteristic diploid number of chromosomes. Understanding diploid organisms is important for managing breeding and genetic improvement programs. Farmers should work with geneticists and breeders to develop effective breeding strategies that enhance the productivity and resilience of their livestock and crops. Knowledge of genetics will aid in optimizing breeding programs and improving farm performance.

disconnect: To take a device to pieces to look at the components. Proper disconnection practices are important for maintaining equipment and ensuring safety. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and tools for disconnection and follow manufacturer guidelines. Understanding the benefits and applications of proper disconnection will aid in effective equipment maintenance and farm operations.

dry farming: A system of extensive agriculture, producing crops in areas of limited rainfall without using irrigation. Dry farming relies on moisture-conserving techniques and drought-tolerant crops to produce yields in arid regions.

digestion: The process by which food is broken down and converted into elements which can be absorbed by the body. The conversion of organic matter into simpler chemical compounds, as in the production of biogas from manure. Bacterial digestion. Understanding the process of digestion is important for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop balanced and nutritious diets that promote optimal digestion. Implementing proper dietary and waste management practices will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.

dung: Solid waste excreta from animals, especially cattle, often used as fertilizer. In some areas of the world, dried dung is used as a cooking fuel, which has the effect of preventing the dung from being returned to the soil and leads to depletion of soil nutrients. Proper management of dung is essential for maintaining soil fertility and supporting sustainable agriculture.

dry matter: The matter remaining in a biological sample or in animal feed after the water content has been removed. Abbr DM. Dry matter is a critical measure for evaluating the nutritional content of animal feed.

digestibility coefficient: The proportion of food digested and not excreted, shown as a percentage of the total food eaten. Understanding the digestibility coefficient is important for evaluating the nutritional value of animal diets. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop highly digestible and nutritious diets for their livestock. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

distance: The amount of space between two points. Understanding distance is important for planning farm operations, planting, and irrigation. Farmers should use appropriate tools and techniques to measure distances accurately and optimize farm layout. Understanding the benefits of accurate distance measurement will aid in effective farm management and productivity.

dual-purpose breed: A breed of livestock that is used for two purposes, such as milk and meat production. Utilizing dual-purpose breeds can increase farm efficiency and profitability.

digestibility value: The amount of digestible organic matter in the dry matter of plants. Abbr D value. Understanding the digestibility value is important for evaluating the nutritional value of animal diets. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop highly digestible and nutritious diets for their livestock. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

detritivore: An organism which feeds on dead organic matter and breaks it down into simple chemicals, e.g., a fungus or bacterium. Also called detrivore, scavenger. Detritivores play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should encourage the presence of detritivores in their soil through practices like adding organic matter, reducing chemical inputs, and maintaining soil moisture. Healthy populations of detritivores can improve soil structure, fertility, and plant growth.

dogdaisy: Also known as mayweed, a common weed that can be found in fields and pastures. While not harmful, it can be a nuisance to farmers and gardeners. Regular weeding and use of herbicides can help manage dogdaisy infestations.

digestible organic matter: An organic substance which can be processed to produce biogas, e.g., manure. Abbr DOM. Managing digestible organic matter is important for nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should implement composting and anaerobic digestion practices to process organic matter and produce valuable biogas and compost. Understanding the benefits and processes of digestible organic matter will aid in effective waste management and soil fertility improvement.

defoliant: A type of herbicide which makes the leaves fall off plants. Defoliants can be used to manage weeds or prepare crops for harvest. Farmers should use defoliants carefully, following label instructions and safety guidelines. Understanding the impact of defoliants on crops and the environment will help in selecting the right product and application method. Monitoring weather conditions and timing applications can enhance the effectiveness of defoliants.