Category: N

Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation: a British government policy to promote the use of energy from renewable sources, such as solar or wind power. Abbr NFFO. The Non-Fossil Fuel Obligation supports farmers in adopting renewable energy solutions, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and enhancing environmental sustainability. Farmers can benefit from government incentives and subsidies to install solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy systems on their farms. Utilizing renewable energy sources can lower energy costs, reduce carbon footprints, and create additional revenue streams, contributing to farm resilience and profitability.

no-till agriculture: a system of cultivation in which mechanical disturbance of the soil by plowing is kept to a minimum to reduce soil erosion. Also called non-till. No-till agriculture involves minimal soil disturbance, promoting soil health and reducing erosion. Farmers can benefit from adopting no-till practices to enhance soil structure, improve water retention, and reduce labor and fuel costs. No-till farming supports sustainable land management, increases resilience to climate change, and can lead to higher crop yields over time. Understanding and implementing no-till techniques can enhance farm sustainability and productivity.

non-persistent pesticide: a pesticide which does not remain toxic for long, and so does not enter the food chain. Non-persistent pesticides offer farmers a tool for effective pest control with reduced environmental impact. By using these pesticides, farmers can manage pests while minimizing the risk of residues in food and harm to non-target organisms. Understanding the proper application and timing of non-persistent pesticides ensures their effectiveness and safety. This approach supports integrated pest management, promoting sustainable and responsible farming practices.

nitrogen: a chemical element that is the main component of air and an essential part of protein. It is essential to biological life. Nitrogen is taken into the body by digesting protein-rich foods. Excess nitrogen is excreted in urine. When the intake of nitrogen and the excretion rate are equal, the body is in nitrogen balance or protein balance. Nitrogen is supplied to the soil by fertilizers, organic matter, nodule bacteria on legumes, and by nitrogen-fixing microorganisms in the soil. Proper nitrogen management is critical for optimizing crop growth and productivity. Farmers can benefit from understanding nitrogen’s role in plant nutrition and adopting practices that ensure efficient nitrogen use. This includes regular soil testing, using nitrogen-efficient crop varieties, and applying fertilizers at the right time and rate. Effective nitrogen management improves crop yields, reduces environmental impact, and enhances farm profitability.

National Office of Animal Health: NOAH is an organization that represents the British animal medicines industry. Abbr NOAH. The National Office of Animal Health provides farmers with information on veterinary medicines and best practices for animal health management. By staying informed through NOAH, farmers can ensure their livestock receive effective treatments, prevent disease outbreaks, and maintain high animal welfare standards. Access to reliable veterinary products and guidance helps improve livestock productivity, health, and farm profitability.

nanny goat: a female goat. Nanny goats are essential in goat farming for milk production and breeding purposes. They provide a reliable source of dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, which can be sold directly or processed into value-added products. Effective management of nanny goats, including proper nutrition, healthcare, and breeding practices, can enhance milk yield and quality. This contributes to increased farm income and sustainability. Additionally, goats are excellent foragers and can help manage vegetation and improve soil health through their grazing habits.

nightshade: a plant of the family Solanaceae which, if eaten by stock, are likely to cause sickness or death. Managing nightshade and other toxic plants is crucial for protecting livestock health. Farmers can benefit from regular monitoring and removal of nightshade from pastures and feed sources. Educating farm workers about the identification and risks of toxic plants ensures prompt action and reduces the risk of poisoning. Effective management practices lead to healthier livestock and safer farming environments.

net blotch: a fungal disease of barley, with dark brown blotches affecting the leaves. Managing net blotch is essential for maintaining healthy barley crops and ensuring high yields. Farmers can benefit from implementing integrated disease management practices, such as crop rotation, resistant varieties, and timely fungicide applications. Regular monitoring and early detection of net blotch can help minimize its impact, reducing crop losses and improving profitability. Effective disease management supports sustainable barley production and enhances overall farm productivity.

nutrient: a substance that an organism needs to allow it to grow, thrive, and reproduce, e.g., carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, or sulfur. Plants obtain their nutrients from the soil, while humans and other animals obtain them from their food, including plants. Proper nutrient management is essential for optimizing crop growth, health, and productivity. Farmers can benefit from understanding the specific nutrient requirements of their crops and implementing balanced fertilization practices. Regular soil testing, using organic amendments, and precision nutrient application help ensure optimal nutrient availability, enhance yields, and reduce environmental impact. Effective nutrient management supports sustainable farming practices and improves overall farm profitability.

nurse cow: a cow used to suckle the calves of others. Nurse cows play a vital role in raising orphaned or multiple calves, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition and care. Farmers can benefit from using nurse cows to support calf growth and development, reducing the need for artificial feeding. Proper management of nurse cows helps improve calf health, reduce labor costs, and enhance overall farm productivity. Understanding the care and management of nurse cows supports effective livestock rearing practices.

New Hampshire Red: a breed of poultry with red plumage, lighter in weight than Rhode Island Red. New Hampshire Reds are mainly kept as layers, producing brownish-tinted eggs. New Hampshire Red chickens are valued for their egg-laying abilities and adaptability to various farming conditions. Farmers can benefit from raising this breed to diversify their poultry operations, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality eggs. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management needs helps optimize production, improve animal welfare, and enhance farm profitability.

new wood: growth made during the current year. Managing new wood growth in orchards and vineyards is essential for maintaining plant health and productivity. Farmers can benefit from regular pruning practices that encourage healthy new wood development, improve air circulation, and enhance fruit quality. Proper management of new wood supports vigorous growth, higher yields, and better crop quality, contributing to the overall success of the farming operation.

nutrient management: the practice of applying fertilizers and other soil amendments in the correct amounts and at the correct time to optimize plant growth while minimizing environmental impact. Effective nutrient management is crucial for maintaining soil fertility, optimizing crop yields, and reducing environmental impact. Farmers can benefit from implementing nutrient management plans that include regular soil testing, balanced fertilization, and precision application techniques. Understanding crop nutrient requirements and timing ensures efficient nutrient use, enhances productivity, and promotes sustainable farming practices. Adopting nutrient management strategies supports long-term soil health and farm profitability.

natural environment: 1. same as natural habitat 2. the part of the Earth that has not been built or formed by humans. Compare built environment. The natural environment provides essential ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification, and nutrient cycling that support agricultural productivity. Farmers can benefit from preserving and enhancing natural habitats on their land, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance. By integrating natural areas into their farming systems, farmers can improve resilience to environmental stressors, enhance soil health, and ensure long-term sustainability.

nomadism: a habit of some animals that move from place to place without having a fixed range. Nomadism in livestock can be managed through rotational grazing practices that mimic natural movement patterns. Farmers can benefit from understanding and implementing nomadic grazing systems to enhance pasture health, reduce soil erosion, and improve forage quality. This approach supports sustainable land management, promotes healthy livestock, and increases overall farm productivity and resilience.

noseband: a broad leather band worn around the horse’s nose and above the bit, used to prevent a horse from opening its mouth too wide. Using nosebands correctly helps manage horse behavior, ensuring effective communication and control during riding and training. Farmers can benefit from understanding the appropriate use and fit of nosebands to enhance horse performance and welfare. Proper noseband management supports humane training practices, reduces stress and discomfort for horses, and improves overall farm productivity and animal welfare.

navy bean: a dried seed of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), used in particular for canning as baked beans. Also called haricot bean. Navy beans are a nutritious crop that can provide farmers with a valuable source of income. They are well-suited for canning and other food processing, offering market opportunities both locally and internationally. Growing navy beans can enhance crop diversity, improve soil health through nitrogen fixation, and contribute to food security. Farmers can benefit from understanding market demands and adopting best practices for navy bean cultivation.

nitrify: verb to convert nitrogen or nitrogen compounds into nitrates. Nitrification is essential for making nitrogen available to plants. Farmers can benefit from understanding the factors that influence nitrification, such as soil pH, temperature, and moisture. Implementing practices that support nitrification, like maintaining balanced soil conditions and avoiding compaction, ensures optimal nitrogen availability for crops. This leads to improved plant health, higher yields, and sustainable farming practices.

nectar: a sweet sugary liquid produced by flowers, which attracts birds or insects which pollinate the flowers. Nectar is crucial for attracting pollinators like bees, which play a vital role in the pollination of many crops. Farmers can benefit from encouraging the presence of nectar-producing plants on their farms to support pollinator populations. This enhances pollination efficiency, leading to higher fruit and seed set, improved crop yields, and better quality produce. Supporting pollinators also promotes biodiversity and ecological health, contributing to sustainable farming practices.

nettle: a plant, especially one of the genus Urtica, which possesses stinging hairs. Nettle, despite being a nuisance weed, has potential benefits for farmers. It can be used as a nutritious feed for livestock, a source of natural fibers, and a habitat for beneficial insects. Farmers can benefit from managing nettle growth to harness its positive attributes while minimizing its impact on crops. Understanding the ecological role of nettles can help integrate them into a sustainable farming system, promoting biodiversity and resource efficiency.

necrosis: the death of tissue or cells in an organism. Preventing necrosis in crops and livestock is vital for maintaining health and productivity. Farmers can benefit from understanding the causes of necrosis, such as disease, injury, or environmental stress, and implementing preventative measures. Early detection and appropriate treatment can mitigate the impact of necrosis on yields and animal health. Maintaining proper care, hygiene, and management practices helps ensure the vitality of crops and livestock, leading to better farm outcomes.

natural insecticide: an insecticide produced from plant extracts. Natural insecticides offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals, helping farmers manage pests without harming beneficial insects or the environment. By using natural insecticides, farmers can reduce chemical residues on crops, improve soil health, and support biodiversity. This approach aligns with organic farming practices and can attract consumers who prefer naturally grown produce, enhancing marketability and farm profitability.

nicotine: a harmful substance in tobacco. It is used as an insecticide. Understanding the use and risks of nicotine as an insecticide helps farmers make informed decisions about pest control. While effective, nicotine-based insecticides must be used responsibly to minimize environmental and health impacts. Farmers can benefit from exploring alternative pest management strategies that reduce reliance on harmful chemicals, promoting safer and more sustainable farming practices.

naked grain: a grain such as wheat that is easily separated or threshed out from its husk, i.e., in its caryopsis state. Naked grains are advantageous for farmers as they reduce post-harvest processing time and costs. The ease of threshing means less labor and lower energy requirements for cleaning the grain, leading to higher efficiency and cost savings. Additionally, naked grains can result in better quality end products, which can attract premium prices in the market. By growing naked grain varieties, farmers can improve their overall profitability and streamline their grain production processes.

nomadic: adjective referring to nomads. Nomadic grazing systems involve moving livestock to different pastures to prevent overgrazing and maintain pasture health. Farmers can benefit from adopting nomadic grazing practices, as they promote sustainable land management, improve forage availability, and enhance soil health. This approach reduces the need for supplemental feeding, lowers input costs, and supports healthy livestock growth. Embracing nomadic grazing contributes to sustainable and resilient farming systems.

Nematodirus disease: a disease of lambs caused by parasitic roundworms. The animals suffer diarrhea and loss of condition. Preventing and managing Nematodirus disease is crucial for the health and productivity of lambs. Farmers can benefit from understanding the lifecycle of the parasite and implementing appropriate control measures such as strategic deworming and pasture management. Regular monitoring and early intervention can reduce the impact of the disease, ensuring healthier lambs, improved growth rates, and higher farm profitability.

nectar: a sweet sugary liquid produced by flowers, which attracts birds or insects which pollinate the flowers. Nectar is crucial for attracting pollinators like bees, which play a vital role in the pollination of many crops. Farmers can benefit from encouraging the presence of nectar-producing plants on their farms to support pollinator populations. This enhances pollination efficiency, leading to higher fruit and seed set, improved crop yields, and better quality produce. Supporting pollinators also promotes biodiversity and ecological health, contributing to sustainable farming practices.

neutraceutical: nutraceutical, noun same as functional food. Nutraceuticals are foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition, often containing bioactive compounds that promote well-being. Farmers can benefit from growing crops with nutraceutical properties, tapping into the growing market for health-conscious consumers. By producing nutraceutical crops, farmers can diversify their product offerings, command premium prices, and contribute to public health. Understanding market trends and consumer preferences can help farmers successfully enter the nutraceutical market and enhance farm profitability.

nematicide: a substance that kills nematodes. Nematodes are microscopic worms that can cause significant damage to crops by feeding on roots and other plant parts. Using nematicides effectively can help farmers control nematode infestations, protecting crop health and yields. Farmers can benefit from understanding the proper application methods and timing for nematicides to minimize environmental impact and ensure effectiveness. Integrated pest management strategies that include nematicides can lead to healthier crops, reduced losses, and higher farm productivity.

nutrition: the process of obtaining food and converting it into the components needed to sustain life. Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of crops, livestock, and humans. Farmers can benefit from understanding the principles of nutrition to optimize feed and fertilizer formulations. Ensuring balanced and adequate nutrition supports healthy growth, improved yields, and better overall performance. Implementing nutrition management practices enhances farm productivity, supports sustainable agriculture, and contributes to long-term farm success.

nitrogen fixation: the process by which nitrogen in the air is converted by bacteria in some plant roots into nitrogen compounds. When the plants die, the nitrogen is released into the soil and acts as a fertilizer. Nitrogen fixation is a natural process that enriches soil with essential nitrogen, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Farmers can benefit from incorporating nitrogen-fixing plants like legumes into their crop rotations. This practice improves soil fertility, supports sustainable nutrient management, and enhances crop yields. Understanding nitrogen fixation helps farmers optimize crop planning and soil health management, contributing to long-term farm productivity.

nutritious: adjective (of food) containing the elements needed to nourish plants and animals, e.g., a diet of nutritious food. Nutritious foods support the health and productivity of both humans and livestock. Farmers can benefit from growing and producing nutritious crops and feed to meet market demands and improve animal performance. Understanding the nutritional requirements of crops and livestock helps optimize production practices and diet formulation, ensuring optimal growth and health. Providing nutritious options supports sustainable farming, enhances marketability, and increases farm profitability.

neat: an old term meaning a cow or ox. Understanding historical farming terminology like “neat” can provide farmers with insights into traditional practices and livestock management. While the term is outdated, recognizing its usage can enhance communication with older generations of farmers and in historical agricultural contexts. Embracing a broader understanding of farming heritage can help preserve valuable knowledge and practices that contribute to sustainable and resilient farming systems today.

NMR: abbreviation for National Milk Records. National Milk Records provides dairy farmers with valuable data on milk production, quality, and herd health. By utilizing NMR’s services, farmers can track their dairy operations’ performance, identify areas for improvement, and make informed management decisions. Accurate milk records help optimize feeding strategies, breeding programs, and overall herd management, leading to increased milk yields, better milk quality, and higher farm income.

nitrogenous fertiliser: a fertilizer such as sulphate of ammonia which is based on nitrogen. Nitrogenous fertilizers are crucial for providing crops with the nitrogen they need for growth and development. Farmers can benefit from understanding the various forms of nitrogenous fertilizers and their application methods. Proper use of these fertilizers enhances soil fertility, improves crop productivity, and supports sustainable farming practices. Balancing nitrogen application with crop needs and environmental considerations helps maximize yields and minimize environmental impact.

nature trail: a path through the countryside with signs to draw attention to important and interesting features about plants, animals, and the environment. Creating nature trails on farms can educate visitors about agriculture and the natural environment, promoting awareness and appreciation of farming practices. Farmers can benefit from developing nature trails as part of agritourism initiatives, attracting visitors and generating additional revenue. Nature trails can also provide opportunities for community engagement, environmental education, and fostering a connection between consumers and the farming community.

nipplewort: an annual weed, Lapsana communis. Managing weeds like nipplewort is essential for maintaining healthy crops and maximizing yields. Farmers can benefit from implementing integrated weed management practices, including crop rotation, mechanical control, and appropriate herbicide use. Regular monitoring and early intervention help prevent weed infestations and reduce competition for resources. Effective weed management supports sustainable farming practices and improves overall farm productivity.

National Assembly for Wales Agriculture and Rural Affairs Department: NAWARAD is the department of the devolved Welsh Assembly government that deals with farming, the environment, animal welfare, and rural development in Wales. Farmers in Wales can benefit from the support and resources provided by NAWARAD, including grants, advisory services, and policy initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture. By engaging with this department, farmers can stay informed about regulatory changes, access financial assistance, and implement practices that enhance farm productivity and environmental stewardship.

NPK: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, used in different proportions as a fertilizer. Understanding the role of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) in plant nutrition is essential for optimizing crop growth and productivity. Farmers can benefit from applying balanced NPK fertilizers based on soil tests and crop needs, ensuring optimal nutrient availability. Proper NPK management enhances soil fertility, improves crop yields, and supports sustainable farming practices. Implementing precision fertilization techniques helps maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact.

nitrogen-hungry plants: plural noun plants which need a lot of nitrogen. Managing nitrogen-hungry plants requires careful fertilization to ensure they receive adequate nutrients for optimal growth. Farmers can benefit from understanding the specific nitrogen requirements of different crops and adjusting their fertilization strategies accordingly. Providing sufficient nitrogen to these plants can lead to improved yields, better crop quality, and higher profitability. Implementing precision agriculture techniques can help optimize nitrogen use and reduce environmental impact.

NSRI: abbreviation for National Soil Resources Institute. The National Soil Resources Institute offers farmers access to research, education, and training on soil health and land management. By utilizing NSRI’s resources, farmers can adopt practices that improve soil fertility, structure, and water retention, leading to better crop yields and sustainable land use. Knowledge gained from NSRI can also help farmers reduce soil erosion, enhance nutrient management, and promote environmentally friendly farming methods.

nursery plot: an area of cultivated soil used for growing plants on before they are planted out, or for sowing seed. Also called seed plot. Nursery plots are essential for producing healthy seedlings and young plants for transplanting. Farmers can benefit from managing nursery plots to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality planting material, improve crop establishment, and reduce losses. Understanding the best practices for nursery plot management, including soil preparation, watering, and pest control, supports successful plant propagation and enhances farm productivity.

National Farmers’ Union: an organization representing the interests of British farmers in negotiations with the government and other agencies. Abbr NFU. The National Farmers’ Union advocates for farmers’ rights and interests, providing a unified voice in policy discussions and negotiations. Membership in the NFU offers farmers access to valuable resources, including legal advice, market information, and training programs. By participating in the NFU, farmers can influence agricultural policies, stay informed about industry trends, and benefit from collective bargaining power, ultimately strengthening their farm businesses.

natural resource: a naturally occurring material that can be put to use by humans, e.g., wood or oil (often plural). Natural resources such as water, soil, and minerals are fundamental to farming operations. Farmers can benefit from managing natural resources sustainably to ensure their long-term availability and productivity. Practices like water conservation, soil health management, and efficient use of inputs help preserve these resources, reduce costs, and promote environmental stewardship. Sustainable resource management supports the resilience and profitability of farming enterprises.

NASPM: abbreviation for National Association of Seed Potato Merchants. NASPM supports seed potato merchants and provides guidelines for seed quality and certification. Farmers can benefit from NASPM’s standards by ensuring they purchase high-quality seed potatoes that are disease-free and genetically pure. This leads to better crop establishment, higher yields, and reduced risk of crop failures. By following NASPM’s recommendations, farmers can improve the productivity and profitability of their potato crops, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient farming operation.

night soil: human excreta, collected and used for fertilizer in some parts of the world. Using night soil as fertilizer can provide valuable nutrients for crops, but it must be managed carefully to avoid health risks. Farmers can benefit from understanding proper treatment and application methods for night soil to ensure safe and effective use. Implementing best practices for composting and sanitation can turn waste into a valuable resource, improving soil fertility and crop yields while maintaining health and safety standards.

National Institute of Agricultural Botany: NIAB is an organization in the UK that tests all new varieties of crops. After successful testing, the varieties are made available to farmers. Abbr NIAB. The National Institute of Agricultural Botany plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and performance of crop varieties. Farmers benefit from NIAB’s rigorous testing by gaining access to high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-adapted crop varieties. Utilizing NIAB-approved seeds can lead to improved crop performance, higher productivity, and greater resilience to environmental stresses, contributing to sustainable farming practices.

National Nature Reserve: NNR is a nationally important example of a type of habitat, established as a reserve to protect the most important areas of wildlife habitat and geological formations. Abbr NNR. National Nature Reserves protect vital ecosystems and biodiversity, which can benefit farmers by supporting pollinators, natural pest control, and soil health. Farmers near NNRs can adopt conservation practices that complement the reserve’s goals, enhancing their land’s ecological value and sustainability. Collaborating with NNRs can also provide farmers with opportunities for eco-tourism and educational activities, diversifying their income streams.

neutralising value: a measurement of the capability of a lime material to neutralize soil acidity. It is the same as the calcium oxide equivalent. Understanding the neutralizing value of lime materials helps farmers effectively manage soil pH and improve soil fertility. By applying lime with the appropriate neutralizing value, farmers can correct soil acidity, enhance nutrient availability, and promote healthy crop growth. This knowledge supports informed decision-making in soil management, leading to better yields and increased farm profitability.

nursery: a place where plants are grown until they are large enough to be planted in their final positions. Nurseries play a crucial role in producing healthy seedlings and young plants for transplanting. Farmers can benefit from operating nurseries to ensure a steady supply of high-quality planting material, improve crop establishment, and reduce losses. Understanding nursery management practices, such as proper watering, fertilization, and pest control, supports successful plant propagation and enhances farm productivity. Establishing and managing nurseries contributes to sustainable agriculture and efficient resource use.