Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
denature: To add a poisonous substance to alcohol to make it unsuitable for humans to drink. To change the natural structure of a protein or nucleic acid by high temperature, chemicals, or extremes of pH. To make something change its nature. To convert a protein into an amino acid. Farmers and processors should understand the processes and implications of denaturing substances. Implementing safe and effective denaturing techniques can improve product quality and safety.
drainage channel: A small ditch made to remove rainwater from the soil surface. Drainage channels help prevent waterlogging and soil erosion.
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development: The government department responsible for farming, the environment, animal welfare, and rural development in Scotland. Abbr DARD. Farmers in Scotland should connect with DARD to access resources and support for sustainable agriculture. Utilizing DARD’s guidance can improve farm management, environmental conservation, and compliance with regulations. Staying informed about DARD programs will help farmers enhance their operations and take advantage of available opportunities.
dribble bar: An attachment that applies a liquid top dressing to a crop through trailing pipes from a boom. Dribble bars help distribute fertilizers and other treatments evenly across a field.
desiccation: The act or process of removing water. The act of drying out the soil. The greenhouse effect may lead to climatic changes such as the desiccation of large areas. Proper management of desiccation processes is important for preserving food and maintaining soil health. Farmers should implement techniques like proper irrigation management, mulching, and soil amendments to prevent excessive desiccation. Understanding the factors contributing to desiccation can help develop effective management strategies.
dehisce: (Of a ripe seed pod, fruit, or capsule) to burst open to allow seeds or spores to scatter. Understanding dehiscence is important for seed production and crop management. Farmers should monitor the timing of dehiscence to ensure proper harvesting and minimize seed loss. Implementing practices like timely harvesting and using protective coverings can enhance seed collection and reduce losses.
discipline: The ability to control behavior by using rules or guidelines. Discipline is important for maintaining productivity and safety on the farm. Farmers should establish clear rules and guidelines for farm operations and ensure that all workers follow them. Implementing proper training and supervision practices will aid in maintaining discipline and achieving farm goals.
deadly nightshade: A poisonous plant (Atropa belladonna) sometimes eaten by animals. Farmers should be vigilant about the presence of deadly nightshade on their land to prevent livestock poisoning. Proper identification and removal of this plant are essential for maintaining animal health. Educating farm workers and implementing safety measures can reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.
dietetics: The study of food, nutrition, and health, especially when applied to food intake. Understanding dietetics is important for developing balanced and nutritious diets for livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure that animal diets promote optimal health and productivity. Implementing proper dietetic practices will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.
dry curing: The process of curing meat in salt, as opposed to brine. Dry curing is a traditional method of preserving meat that enhances its flavor and extends its shelf life.
dead heading: The process of cutting the dead flower heads from a plant to prevent the formation of seeds. Dead heading is an important practice for maintaining the health and appearance of flowering plants. For farmers and gardeners, regular dead heading can promote further blooming and prevent the spread of unwanted seeds. Proper pruning techniques will enhance plant vigor and aesthetic value.
Double Gloucester: A rich orange-coloured British cheese. Double Gloucester cheese is known for its smooth texture and nutty flavor. It is a popular addition to cheese boards and cooking recipes.
dietetics: The study of food, nutrition, and health, especially when applied to food intake. Understanding dietetics is important for developing balanced and nutritious diets for livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure that animal diets promote optimal health and productivity. Implementing proper dietetic practices will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.
Daucus: The Latin name for the family of plants which includes the carrot. Carrot farmers should be familiar with the Daucus family to understand the characteristics and growth requirements of their crops. Proper soil preparation, irrigation, and pest management are essential for successful carrot cultivation. Knowledge of the Daucus family can also aid in crop rotation and disease prevention.
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.
dockage: The amount deducted from the weight of grain delivered to a grain elevator because of the presence of unwanted material such as weed seeds or chaff. Managing dockage involves implementing proper cleaning and handling practices to reduce the presence of unwanted material. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and equipment to ensure high-quality grain delivery. Understanding the benefits of minimizing dockage will aid in improving grain quality and marketability.
dieldrin: An organochlorine insecticide which kills on contact. It is very persistent and can kill fish, birds, and small mammals when it enters the food chain. It is banned in the European Union. Farmers should avoid using banned substances like dieldrin to prevent environmental contamination and legal issues. Understanding alternative pest control methods will help manage pests effectively while complying with regulations and protecting the environment.
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.
Diamonds disease: Referring to erysipelas, an infectious disease affecting pigs. Managing Diamonds disease 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 Diamonds disease will aid in early detection and treatment, ensuring the health and productivity of the herd.
drainage ditch: A channel to take away rainwater. Drainage ditches are essential for managing water on farmland, preventing waterlogging, and protecting crops.
dry roughage: Dry bulky foodstuffs, e.g., hay or straw. Dry roughage provides essential fiber in the diets of ruminants, aiding in digestion and promoting overall health.
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.
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.
double digging: A cultivation technique where a spit is dug out, the soil placed on one side, and a second spit dug. This loosens the soil at a deeper level than normal digging. Double digging improves soil aeration and fertility, promoting healthier plant growth.
distillation: The process of purifying a liquid by heating it so that it becomes a gas and then condensing it to form a pure liquid again. Distillation is an important process for producing high-quality products like essential oils and spirits. Farmers should use appropriate equipment and techniques for effective distillation. Understanding the benefits and applications of distillation will aid in optimizing production and product quality.
droppings board: A bench under the perches in smaller poultry houses, on which bird droppings collect. Droppings boards help keep poultry houses clean and make it easier to collect and manage manure.
Derbyshire Gritstone: A black-faced, hornless hardy breed of sheep, which produces a soft fleece of high quality. The name comes from a type of rock, millstone grit, found in the Peak District of Derbyshire. Farmers raising Derbyshire Gritstone sheep should focus on proper grazing management, regular shearing, and health monitoring to maintain flock productivity. Marketing the unique characteristics of Derbyshire Gritstone wool can attract premium buyers and enhance farm profitability.
disk: Alternative spelling of disc. A circular agricultural implement used for tillage and soil preparation. Using disks can improve soil preparation and root penetration for crops. Farmers should select the appropriate type of disk for their needs and use it properly to achieve optimal soil conditions. Understanding the benefits and applications of disks will aid in effective soil management and crop establishment.
disclimax: The most stable community of plants and animals that an area can support, occurring as a result of disturbance. Understanding disclimax is important for managing ecosystems and maintaining biodiversity. Farmers should implement sustainable land management practices to support stable and resilient plant and animal communities. Understanding the factors contributing to disclimax will aid in developing effective conservation and management strategies.
dendrochronology: A scientific method of finding the age of wood by the study of tree rings. Dendrochronology can provide valuable information about tree growth patterns, climate history, and forest management. Farmers and foresters can use dendrochronology to understand the age and health of trees, aiding in sustainable forest management practices. Knowledge of dendrochronology can also support research and conservation efforts.
dairy farm: A farm which is principally engaged in milk production. COMMENT: The UK is Europes 3rd largest milk producer, and is limited to an annual production quota of 14.2 billion litres. Although it is largely self-sufficient in milk, related products such as cheese, milk powder, cream and butter are heavily imported and exported between the UK and other EU countries. Running a successful dairy farm requires knowledge of animal husbandry, nutrition, milking technology, and farm management. Farmers should stay updated with the latest research and technology in dairy farming to improve milk production and ensure sustainable practices. Networking with other dairy farmers and attending workshops can provide valuable insights and support.
dry-stone wall: A wall made of stones carefully placed one on top of the other without using any mortar. Dry-stone walls are traditional structures that provide boundaries and shelter on farms and require regular maintenance to remain effective.
diffuse water pollution: Water pollution which is caused by several small sources such as runoff from farms. Managing diffuse water pollution involves implementing practices like buffer strips, cover cropping, and proper nutrient management. Farmers should adopt measures to reduce runoff and prevent contaminants from entering water bodies. Understanding the sources and impacts of diffuse water pollution will aid in developing effective water management strategies.
dairyman: 1. A person who works with dairy cattle. 2. A person employed in a commercial dairy. Dairymen are skilled workers who manage dairy cows and milk production. Proper training in animal care, milking procedures, and dairy management can lead to better milk yields and healthier cows. Farmers should provide ongoing education and support for their dairymen to ensure they have the skills needed to maintain high standards of dairy farming.
derelict: Referring to land which has been damaged and made ugly by mining or other industrial processes, or which has been neglected and is not used for anything. A plan to reclaim derelict inner city sites. Referring to a building which is neglected and in ruins. Derelict barns. Reclaiming and repurposing derelict land can provide new opportunities for farming and conservation. Farmers and land managers should explore programs and funding for land reclamation and restoration. Understanding the potential uses and benefits of reclaimed land can help in planning sustainable land use strategies.
downer animal: A farm animal that is unable to stand or walk because of injury or disease. Proper handling and care are essential to prevent and manage downer animals, ensuring their welfare and reducing the risk of further injury.
docking: The practice of cutting off part of an animals tail, often done to prevent injury or improve hygiene. Proper docking techniques are important for maintaining animal health and welfare. Farmers should use appropriate methods and follow animal welfare guidelines for effective docking. Understanding the benefits and applications of docking will aid in effective livestock management and improved animal welfare.
dip: A chemical which is dissolved in water, used for dipping animals, mainly sheep, to remove lice and ticks. Dipping animals is an important practice for managing external parasites and maintaining animal health. Farmers should use proper techniques and follow safety guidelines for effective dipping. Understanding the benefits and applications of dips will aid in effective parasite management and improved livestock welfare.
dietary reference values: The nutrients that are essential for health, published as a list by the UK government. Understanding dietary reference values is important for developing balanced and nutritious diets for livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure that animal diets meet these reference values and promote optimal health. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.
dungleweed: Same as orache, a common weed found in agricultural areas. Managing dungleweed involves regular weeding and use of herbicides to prevent it from competing with crops for nutrients and water.
DADA: Abbreviation for Disadvantaged Area. Understanding the classification of a Disadvantaged Area (DADA) is crucial for farmers because it often means eligibility for financial aid and support programs aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and economic stability in these regions. Knowing if your farm is in a DADA can help you access grants, subsidies, and technical support to improve farm operations and sustainability.
digestive system: The set of organs in the body associated with the digestion of food. Understanding the digestive system is important for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to develop balanced and nutritious diets that support the digestive system. Implementing proper dietary practices and monitoring digestive health will enhance the well-being and performance of livestock.
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