Category: D

decompose: (Of organic material) to break down into simple chemical compounds by the action of sunlight, water, or bacteria and fungi. Decomposition is a natural process that recycles nutrients back into the soil. Farmers can utilize composting and other decomposition methods to enhance soil fertility and reduce waste. Proper management of organic material decomposition can lead to healthier soils and better crop yields.

Drysdale: A breed of New Zealand sheep, a crossbreed from Romney and Cheviot. Drysdales are known for their high-quality wool and hardiness, making them suitable for various farming conditions.

doddle: An easy task. Understanding the concept of a doddle can provide valuable insights into simplifying farm tasks and operations. Farmers should identify and implement strategies to make tasks easier and more efficient. Understanding the benefits of simplifying tasks will aid in improving productivity and reducing labor costs.

dipping: The process of plunging an animal in a chemical solution to remove ticks, etc. COMMENT: Sheep are dipped to eradicate parasites such as lice and ticks, and to prevent sheep scab. Dipping varies from region to region according to custom, breed, and climate. Dipping may be ordered by Defra to control outbreaks of disease, and in certain cases, it has to be witnessed by a local authority inspector. Proper dipping practices are essential for managing external parasites and maintaining animal health. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and follow safety guidelines for effective dipping. Understanding the benefits and applications of dipping will aid in effective parasite management and improved livestock welfare.

DPA: An abbreviation for direct proportional application, a system ensuring that the output from a sprayer is proportional to the speed at which it moves forward. This system helps farmers apply pesticides and fertilizers more efficiently and effectively.

dig: To turn over ground with a fork or spade. Digging is an important practice for preparing soil for planting and improving its structure. Farmers and gardeners should use proper techniques and tools for effective digging and soil preparation. Understanding the benefits of digging will aid in creating optimal growing conditions for crops.

dry cow: A cow that is between lactations and is therefore not giving milk. Dry cows require proper management to ensure they are healthy and ready for the next lactation period. This includes providing adequate nutrition and monitoring their health.

distemper: An infectious disease affecting dogs, cats, and some other animals, causing fever, respiratory, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Managing distemper involves implementing proper biosecurity measures, vaccination, and regular health monitoring. Farmers should work with veterinarians to develop effective disease management plans and prevent outbreaks. Understanding the signs and symptoms of distemper will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.

dress: To clean or prepare the carcass of something such as a chicken so that it is ready for cooking and eating. Proper dressing techniques ensure the meat is safe for consumption and retains its quality.

digestibility: The proportion of food which is digested and is therefore of value to the animal which eats it. Understanding digestibility is important for developing balanced and nutritious diets for livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure that animal diets are highly digestible and promote optimal health. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

draught animal: An animal used to pull vehicles or carry heavy loads. Draught animals, such as oxen, horses, and donkeys, provide essential labor on many farms, particularly in regions where machinery is less accessible.

duty of care: A duty that every citizen and organization has not to act negligently, especially the system for the safe handling of waste, introduced by the UK Environmental Protection Act 1990. Farmers have a duty of care to manage waste responsibly and protect the environment.

decumbent: Referring to plant stems which lie on the surface of the soil for part of their length, but turn upwards at the end. Decumbent plants can be useful in ground cover and erosion control. Farmers should consider incorporating decumbent plants into their cropping systems to protect soil, reduce weed pressure, and improve biodiversity. Proper management and selection of decumbent species can enhance their benefits in agricultural landscapes.

die down: To stop growing before the winter and keep only the parts below ground until spring. Herbaceous plants die down in autumn. Managing plants that die down involves proper care and maintenance during their dormant period. Farmers and gardeners should ensure proper mulching, watering, and protection to support plant health and regrowth in spring. Understanding the growth patterns of herbaceous plants can aid in effective seasonal management.

draft ewe: An ewe sold from a breeding flock of sheep while still young enough to produce lambs. Draft ewes are often sold to other farms to continue their productive lives.

dipping bath: Same as dipper. Using a dipping bath is an effective method for managing external parasites in livestock. Farmers should ensure proper construction and maintenance of dipping baths for safe and effective dipping. Understanding the benefits and applications of dipping baths will aid in effective parasite management and improved livestock welfare.

direct drilling: A form of minimal cultivation where the seed is sown directly into the field without previous cultivation. Several types of drill are used, with heavy discs for cutting narrow drills, or strong cultivator tines. Direct drilling can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and save time and labor. Farmers should select the appropriate type of drill for their needs and use it properly to achieve optimal crop establishment. Understanding the benefits and applications of direct drilling will aid in effective soil management and crop production.

dominant: Important or powerful. In genetics, a dominant allele has the characteristic that leads to the trait it controls being shown in any individual carrying it. Understanding dominant traits is essential for selective breeding programs.

ditching: The practice of digging or maintaining ditches for drainage or irrigation. Ditching is important for managing water flow and preventing soil erosion. Farmers should use proper techniques and equipment for effective ditching. Understanding the benefits and applications of ditching will aid in effective water management and crop production.

drover: A person in charge of a flock or herd that is being moved from one place to another. Drovers play a crucial role in managing livestock movement, ensuring that animals are guided safely and efficiently.

directive: An order from the European Union, referring to a particular problem. Understanding directives from the European Union is important for compliance and accessing support programs. Farmers should stay informed about relevant directives and implement necessary changes to their operations. Engaging with agricultural organizations and government agencies will aid in staying updated on policy changes and opportunities.

Defra: Abbreviation for Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Farmers should stay informed about Defra regulations, programs, and resources to comply with environmental standards and access support for sustainable farming practices. Utilizing Defra’s guidance can help improve farm operations, enhance environmental stewardship, and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Regularly engaging with Defra updates and initiatives will keep farmers informed about best practices and funding opportunities.

daddy-long-legs: A popular name for the cranefly. While craneflies are not harmful to crops, their larvae, known as leatherjackets, can cause damage by feeding on plant roots. Farmers should monitor their fields for signs of leatherjackets and use integrated pest management strategies to control their population without harming beneficial insects.

drill coulter: A coulter that makes a furrow for sowing seed. Drill coulters are essential for precision planting, helping to create uniform seed rows and improve crop establishment.

date: The fruit of a date palm. COMMENT: The biggest producers of dates are Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Algeria, though most Middle Eastern countries produce small quantities. Date farming can be profitable in suitable climates. Farmers should ensure proper irrigation, pest control, and harvesting techniques to maximize date production. Exploring market opportunities for dates can also lead to increased income.

deer forest: An extensive tract of upland, usually treeless, but managed by keepers to provide deer-stalking. Managing a deer forest requires knowledge of wildlife management, habitat conservation, and hunting regulations. Farmers and land managers should work with wildlife experts to maintain healthy deer populations and sustainable hunting practices. Promoting eco-tourism and hunting experiences can also provide additional income streams.

discriminant: The method used to identify a species, especially in soil analysis. Understanding discriminants is important for identifying species and managing soil health. Farmers should work with soil scientists and agronomists to perform accurate soil analysis and make informed decisions about soil management. Understanding the benefits and applications of discriminants will aid in effective soil management and crop production.

disease-free: Referring to an animal, plant, or area which does not have any diseases. Maintaining disease-free status involves implementing proper biosecurity measures, vaccination, and regular health monitoring. Farmers should work with veterinarians and agricultural extension services to develop effective disease prevention and management plans. Understanding the importance of disease-free status will aid in maintaining animal health and farm productivity.

duckling: A young duck. Ducklings require proper care, including adequate nutrition, warmth, and protection from predators, to ensure healthy growth and development.

dither: The practice of mixing up seeds before planting. Dithering can improve seed distribution and germination rates. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and equipment for effective dithering. Understanding the benefits and applications of dithering will aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

Deadweight Average Pig Price: The average price for pigs, calculated each week from reports by abattoirs on the price they paid for the pigs they have slaughtered. It replaced the Adjusted Eurospec Average price report in 2004. Abbr DAPP. Pig farmers should stay updated with the Deadweight Average Pig Price to make informed decisions about selling their pigs. Understanding market trends and pricing can help maximize profits and plan production schedules effectively.

dubbin: Prepared grease used for waterproofing and softening leather. Dubbin is essential for maintaining leather goods used in farming, such as boots and harnesses, ensuring they remain durable and water-resistant.

disease resistance: The ability of a plant or animal to prevent or overcome infection by pathogens. Breeding for disease resistance can improve crop and livestock health and reduce the need for chemical treatments.

discharged: The process of converting a substance into gas, or the loss of electrical energy from a battery. Managing the discharge of substances and equipment is important for maintaining farm operations and safety. Farmers should implement proper handling, storage, and disposal practices to prevent contamination and accidents. Understanding the processes and impacts of discharge will aid in effective resource management.

drip irrigation: An irrigation system where water is supplied by ground-level pipes and released slowly at the base of each plant. Also called trickle irrigation, this method conserves water and reduces weed growth, making it an efficient and sustainable method for watering crops. Farmers should regularly inspect and maintain drip systems to ensure optimal performance.

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.

discuss: To talk about something with someone to share information. Discussing farm management practices and challenges with other farmers, advisors, and experts can provide valuable insights and solutions. Farmers should engage in regular discussions and networking opportunities to stay informed and improve their operations. Understanding the benefits of open communication will aid in effective knowledge sharing and farm management.

drainage area: Also known as a drainage basin or catchment area, it is the area from which all precipitation flows to a common outlet. Understanding drainage areas helps farmers manage water resources and prevent flooding.

duramen: Same as heartwood, the dense inner part of a tree trunk, yielding the hardest timber. Understanding the properties of duramen is important for wood production and selection of timber for various uses.

downland: An area of grassy treeless hills. Downland provides important grazing areas for livestock and can be managed for conservation and recreational purposes.

dredge corn: A mixture of cereals grown together and used for livestock feeding. The commonest type is a mixture of barley and oats, and sometimes cereals and pulses are mixed. Dredge corn provides a balanced diet for livestock and can improve feed efficiency.

doddle: An easy task. Understanding the concept of a doddle can provide valuable insights into simplifying farm tasks and operations. Farmers should identify and implement strategies to make tasks easier and more efficient. Understanding the benefits of simplifying tasks will aid in improving productivity and reducing labor costs.

decortication: The process of removing husks from seeds. Decortication is important for processing seeds like cotton and sunflower. Farmers and processors should use appropriate machinery and techniques to ensure efficient decortication, improving the quality and marketability of the seeds. Proper maintenance of decortication equipment will also enhance its longevity and performance.

dry rot: A fungal disease causing rot in wood, potatoes, or fruit. Managing dry rot involves removing affected materials and improving ventilation and moisture control to prevent further spread.

draught control system: A system of preventing damage to an implement such as a harrow as it is being pulled through the soil. When the draught reaches a set level, the implement is automatically raised out of the soil. This system helps protect equipment and improve efficiency.

day-old chick: A chick up to 24 hours old, sent from a breeder or hatchery to a buyer. Proper care and management of day-old chicks are crucial for poultry farmers. Ensuring a warm, clean environment and providing appropriate feed and water will help chicks grow healthy and strong. Monitoring their health and implementing biosecurity measures will reduce the risk of disease and mortality.

dispersion: The scattering of seeds over a wide area. Understanding seed dispersion is important for managing plant populations and optimizing crop yields. Farmers should implement proper planting and management practices to achieve desired dispersion patterns. Understanding the benefits and applications of dispersion will aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

drawbar power: The power available to pull an implement, as opposed to the brake horsepower of a tractor. Under field conditions, not all brake horsepower will be available to pull implements, because some of it is needed to make the tractor itself move forwards and overcome the resistance of the bearings and the soil on the wheels. Understanding drawbar power helps farmers select the right equipment for their tractors.

distemper: An infectious disease affecting dogs, cats, and some other animals, causing fever, respiratory, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Managing distemper involves implementing proper biosecurity measures, vaccination, and regular health monitoring. Farmers should work with veterinarians to develop effective disease management plans and prevent outbreaks. Understanding the signs and symptoms of distemper will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.

Dutch harrow: An implement with a metal or wooden frame, with heavy tine bars almost at right angles to the direction of travel. The tines loosen the soil, and the heavy bars level the surface. Also called float. Dutch harrows are used in soil preparation to create a smooth seedbed for planting.