Category: N

nitrification: the process by which bacteria in the soil break down nitrogen compounds and form nitrates which plants can absorb. Nitrification is a key process in the nitrogen cycle, essential for converting nitrogen into forms that plants can use. Farmers can benefit from understanding and managing nitrification to ensure efficient nitrogen use and minimize losses. Practices like maintaining soil health, using nitrification inhibitors, and optimizing fertilizer application timing can enhance nitrogen availability for crops, leading to better yields and reduced environmental impact.

nitrogen-fixing plant: a leguminous plant which forms an association with bacteria that convert nitrogen from the air into nitrogen compounds in the soil, e.g., a pea plant. Nitrogen-fixing plants play a crucial role in maintaining soil fertility and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Farmers can benefit from including these plants in their crop rotations or as cover crops to improve soil nitrogen levels. This practice enhances soil health, promotes sustainable farming, and reduces input costs. Utilizing nitrogen-fixing plants helps ensure a more resilient and productive farming system.

North Country Cheviot: a large-sized breed of sheep with fine good-quality wool. This variety of the Cheviot is found in Caithness and Sutherland. The North Country Cheviot breed is known for its hardiness and high-quality wool, making it an excellent choice for farmers in challenging climates. Farmers can benefit from raising this breed to produce valuable wool and resilient lambs. Understanding the breed’s specific care requirements and market potential helps optimize production and enhance farm profitability.

NABIM: abbreviation for National Association of British and Irish Millers. NABIM represents the interests of millers and provides valuable information on grain quality standards and market trends. Farmers can benefit from NABIM’s resources by understanding the specific quality requirements for milling grains, enabling them to grow crops that meet industry standards. This can lead to better market opportunities, higher prices for quality produce, and stronger relationships with buyers. Staying informed about industry developments through NABIM can also help farmers adapt to changing market demands and improve their competitiveness.

net value added: the annual value of goods sold and services paid for inside a country, less tax and Government subsidies, and also allowing for the depreciation of capital assets. Abbr NVA. Net value added is an important economic indicator for farmers, reflecting the true economic contribution of their farming operations. Understanding and optimizing net value added can help farmers make informed financial decisions, improve efficiency, and increase profitability. By focusing on value-added products and services, farmers can enhance their income streams and build a more resilient business.

nitrogen cycle: the set of processes by which nitrogen is converted from a gas in the atmosphere to nitrogen-containing substances in soil and living organisms, then converted back to a gas. Nitrogen is absorbed into green plants in the form of nitrates, the plants are then eaten by animals, and the nitrates are returned to the ecosystem through animals’ excreta or when an animal or a plant dies. The nitrogen cycle is fundamental to maintaining soil fertility and supporting plant growth. Farmers can benefit from understanding and managing the nitrogen cycle on their farms. Practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and the use of legumes can enhance nitrogen fixation and improve soil health. By optimizing the nitrogen cycle, farmers can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, lower input costs, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Natural Environment Research Council: NERC is a group that carries out research and training in the environmental sciences. Abbr NERC. The Natural Environment Research Council provides farmers with access to cutting-edge research and training in environmental science and sustainable agriculture. By leveraging NERC’s resources, farmers can adopt innovative practices that improve resource use efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance farm productivity. Staying informed about the latest scientific advancements helps farmers address climate change challenges, protect natural resources, and maintain a competitive edge in the agricultural sector.

National Canine Defence League: former name for Dogs Trust. The National Canine Defence League (now Dogs Trust) focuses on the welfare of dogs, including those on farms. Farmers can benefit from the organization’s expertise in dog training, behavior, and health care. Ensuring the well-being of farm dogs can improve their effectiveness in managing livestock and providing security. Collaboration with Dogs Trust can also help farmers address issues such as stray dog control and promote responsible dog ownership, contributing to a safer and more productive farming environment.

neck rot: a disease affecting bulb onions during storage. The onions become soft and begin to rot from the stem downwards. Managing neck rot is essential for maintaining the quality and marketability of stored onions. Farmers can benefit from implementing proper storage practices, such as controlling temperature and humidity, to prevent the onset of neck rot. Regular monitoring and the use of resistant varieties can also reduce losses. Effective management of neck rot ensures higher product quality, reduces waste, and improves profitability for onion producers.

nature reserve: an area where plants, animals, and their environment are protected. Establishing nature reserves on or near farms can provide critical habitat for wildlife, support biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem services. Farmers can benefit from collaborating with conservation organizations to create and manage reserves, promoting ecological balance and sustainability. Nature reserves can also offer opportunities for eco-tourism, educational programs, and community engagement, providing additional income and fostering a positive relationship between farmers and the public.

node: a point on the stem of a plant where a leaf is attached. Understanding plant anatomy, including nodes, helps farmers manage crop growth and health. Nodes are crucial points for leaf and branch development, and knowing their location can guide pruning and training practices. Proper management of nodes can improve air circulation, light penetration, and overall plant structure, leading to healthier crops and higher yields. Knowledge of plant nodes supports effective crop management and enhances farm productivity.

National Union of Agricultural and Allied Workers: former name for RAAW. The National Union of Agricultural and Allied Workers represented the interests of agricultural workers, providing support and advocating for fair labor practices. Although now replaced by RAAW, the principles of fair labor and worker support remain crucial. Farmers can benefit from understanding and implementing fair labor practices, ensuring a motivated and productive workforce. This can lead to improved farm operations, higher worker retention, and a positive reputation within the community.

nozzle: a projecting part with an opening at the end of a pipe, for regulating and directing a flow of fluid. Using nozzles effectively helps farmers apply fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation water precisely and efficiently. Farmers can benefit from selecting the right type of nozzle for their equipment and understanding proper calibration and maintenance. Effective nozzle use reduces waste, improves application accuracy, and enhances overall farm productivity. Implementing precision application techniques supports sustainable farming practices and resource conservation.

non-food crops: plural noun crops which are grown for purposes other than producing food, such as to provide renewable energy or chemicals. Non-food crops offer farmers opportunities to diversify their production and tap into emerging markets for bioenergy, industrial raw materials, and pharmaceuticals. By growing non-food crops, farmers can reduce dependency on traditional food markets, enhance income stability, and contribute to sustainable development. Understanding market demand and production requirements for non-food crops helps farmers make informed decisions and optimize their farming operations.

notifiable disease: a serious infectious disease of plants, animals, or people that has to be officially reported so that steps can be taken to stop it from spreading. Managing and preventing notifiable diseases is crucial for protecting farm productivity and public health. Farmers can benefit from understanding the regulations and protocols for reporting notifiable diseases, ensuring prompt action to contain outbreaks. Implementing biosecurity measures, regular monitoring, and vaccination programs helps reduce the risk of disease transmission and minimize economic losses. Effective disease management supports farm resilience and sustainability.

national list: a list of agricultural crop varieties tested by the NIAB and available for sale. Under EU regulations, all seeds sold to farmers or horticulturists must be tested and certified. The national list ensures that farmers have access to high-quality, certified seeds that meet stringent standards for performance and safety. By choosing seeds from the national list, farmers can reduce the risk of crop failures, enhance yields, and improve the overall quality of their produce. This reliable seed source supports sustainable agricultural practices and boosts farm profitability.

Newcastle disease: an acute febrile contagious disease of fowls. Affected birds suffer loss of appetite, diarrhea, and respiratory problems, and mortality rates are high. It is a notifiable disease. Managing and preventing Newcastle disease is crucial for maintaining poultry health and productivity. Farmers can benefit from implementing biosecurity measures, regular vaccination programs, and proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of outbreaks. Early detection and rapid response to Newcastle disease can minimize economic losses, ensure healthy flocks, and protect farm profitability.

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.