Category: N

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.

near infrared spectrophotometry: a method of establishing tissue composition, used in agriculture to assess the quality of meat and of grain crops. Near infrared spectrophotometry allows farmers to quickly and accurately analyze the composition of agricultural products, ensuring quality control and meeting market standards. By using this technology, farmers can optimize feeding strategies, improve product consistency, and enhance marketability. This leads to higher product value, better customer satisfaction, and increased profitability. Adopting advanced analytical tools like near infrared spectrophotometry supports precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices.

non-selective herbicide: a chemical herbicide which kills all vegetation. Non-selective herbicides are useful for clearing land, controlling invasive species, and managing weeds in non-crop areas. Farmers can benefit from using non-selective herbicides for tasks like field preparation and maintenance of fence lines. Understanding the appropriate use and timing of these herbicides helps ensure effective vegetation control while minimizing unintended damage to crops. Integrating non-selective herbicides into a comprehensive weed management plan supports efficient and sustainable farming operations.

NCDL: abbreviation for National Canine Defence League (now called Dogs Trust). 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.

National Milk Records: NMR is a company that keeps central records for dairy farmers. Abbr NMR. 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.

National Soil Resources Institute: NSRI is an association formed in 2001 which provides education and training in the fields of soil and land management practice. Abbr NSRI. 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.

natural habitat: the usual surroundings in which an organism lives in the wild. Also called natural environment. Maintaining natural habitats within and around farms supports biodiversity, which can enhance ecosystem services critical for agriculture, such as pollination and pest control. Farmers can benefit from preserving natural habitats by promoting a balanced ecosystem that supports healthy crop growth and reduces the need for chemical inputs. This approach can lead to more sustainable farming practices, improved crop yields, and a healthier environment.

National Animal Welfare Trust: NAWT is a rescue center with branches across the UK, providing short-term care and rehabilitation for unwanted and abused animals. Farmers can collaborate with NAWT to ensure the welfare of farm animals and promote humane treatment practices. By adhering to high animal welfare standards, farmers can enhance the health and productivity of their livestock, improve product quality, and build a positive reputation among consumers. Partnering with organizations like NAWT can also provide farmers with access to resources and support for animal care and management.

North Devon: Devon. The North Devon breed of cattle, also known as Devon, is prized for its high-quality meat and adaptability to various farming conditions. Farmers can benefit from raising North Devon cattle to produce premium beef and improve farm resilience. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management practices supports successful breeding, efficient feed utilization, and enhanced farm profitability. By promoting the North Devon breed, farmers can tap into niche markets and attract consumers seeking heritage and high-quality meat products.

NERC: abbreviation for Natural Environment Research Council. 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.

new blood: genetic variation brought into a breed by, e.g., introducing a new male to a flock or herd. Introducing new blood into livestock breeding programs helps maintain genetic diversity, improve herd or flock health, and enhance productivity. Farmers can benefit from strategic breeding practices that incorporate new genetic material, reducing the risk of inbreeding and its associated health issues. This approach leads to stronger, more resilient livestock populations, better adaptation to environmental conditions, and higher overall farm profitability.

no-till farming: A farming practice where crops are grown without disturbing the soil through tillage. No-till farming helps prevent soil erosion and improve soil health.

naturalise: naturalise, verb to introduce a species into an area where it has not lived or grown before so that it becomes established as part of the ecosystem. Naturalizing beneficial plant species can help improve soil health, support pollinators, and enhance biodiversity on farms. Farmers can benefit from introducing cover crops, forage plants, and other species that contribute to sustainable land management. This practice can lead to improved soil structure, reduced erosion, and increased resilience to environmental stressors, promoting long-term agricultural productivity.

nitrogen deficiency: a lack of nitrogen in the soil, found where organic matter is low and resulting in thin, weak growth of plants. Addressing nitrogen deficiency is crucial for maintaining healthy and productive crops. Farmers can benefit from regular soil testing to identify nitrogen deficiencies and implementing appropriate fertilization strategies. Using organic amendments like compost and manure, along with nitrogen fertilizers, can help restore soil nitrogen levels. Ensuring adequate nitrogen supply promotes vigorous plant growth, higher yields, and improved crop quality.

Na: symbol for sodium. Sodium, though not a primary nutrient, can influence soil structure and water infiltration. High sodium levels can lead to soil compaction and reduced water permeability, negatively affecting plant growth. Farmers can benefit from monitoring and managing soil sodium levels through soil testing and adopting practices like gypsum application or crop rotation with salt-tolerant species. This helps maintain soil health, improves crop performance, and ensures sustainable land use.

nursery bed: a bed in which seedlings are planted out from the seedbed until they are large enough to be put in permanent positions. Nursery beds provide a controlled environment for young plants to grow and develop before being transplanted to their final locations. Farmers can benefit from using nursery beds to ensure healthy and vigorous seedlings, improve transplant success rates, and optimize crop production. Proper management of nursery beds, including soil preparation, irrigation, and pest control, supports effective plant propagation and enhances overall farm productivity.

National Agricultural Centre: NAC is the site of the annual Royal Show (at Stoneleigh, in Warwickshire), owned by the RASE. The National Agricultural Centre serves as a focal point for agricultural innovation, education, and networking. Farmers attending events at the NAC can gain insights into the latest research, technologies, and best practices. This exposure can help them adopt new methods to improve crop yields, livestock health, and overall farm efficiency. The NAC also offers opportunities for farmers to showcase their products, learn from industry leaders, and connect with potential buyers and collaborators.

new variant CJD: variant CJD. Understanding the risks and transmission pathways of new variant CJD is essential for maintaining livestock health and food safety. Farmers can benefit from implementing biosecurity measures, regular health monitoring, and proper handling practices to prevent the spread of prion diseases. Staying informed about emerging diseases and following guidelines from health authorities ensures the safety of livestock products and protects farm profitability.

N: symbol for nitrogen. Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plants, essential for the formation of amino acids, proteins, and chlorophyll. It plays a crucial role in photosynthesis and overall plant health. Proper nitrogen management can lead to increased crop yields, improved plant vigor, and better quality produce. By understanding nitrogen’s role and applying appropriate fertilization techniques, farmers can enhance soil fertility, reduce input costs, and increase profitability. Regular soil testing and the use of nitrogen-efficient crops can also help minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable farming practices.

National Envelope: a source of additional funds to help livestock producers, e.g., a beef national envelope and a sheep national envelope. The National Envelope provides financial support to livestock farmers, helping them manage production costs and invest in farm improvements. By accessing these funds, farmers can enhance their livestock operations, improve animal health and welfare, and adopt sustainable practices. This financial assistance can also help buffer against market fluctuations and other challenges, ensuring the long-term viability of livestock farming enterprises.

national park: a large area of land selected because of its scenic, recreational, scientific, or historical importance for special protection from development, and managed by a local government body for recreational use by the public and the benefit of the local community. National parks offer farmers opportunities to engage in sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. By participating in national park initiatives, farmers can diversify their income through eco-tourism, promote their products to visitors, and enhance the environmental stewardship of their land. This collaboration can lead to a stronger community and a healthier ecosystem.

NOAH: abbreviation for National Office of Animal Health. 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.

NSA: abbreviation for nitrate-sensitive area. Managing nitrate use in nitrate-sensitive areas is crucial for protecting water quality and preventing pollution. Farmers can benefit from adhering to regulations and adopting best practices for nitrogen management, such as using precision farming techniques, cover crops, and buffer zones. Compliance with guidelines helps maintain soil fertility, protect water resources, and promote sustainable farming practices.

natural farming: A method of farming that avoids the use of synthetic chemicals and relies on natural processes. Natural farming promotes sustainable agriculture and environmental health.

NFYFC: abbreviation for National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs. The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs provides education, training, and social opportunities for young people involved in agriculture. Farmers can benefit from encouraging young family members and employees to join NFYFC, fostering the next generation of skilled and knowledgeable farmers. Participation in NFYFC helps develop leadership skills, agricultural expertise, and a strong sense of community, ensuring the future sustainability of farming operations.

nutraceutical: 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.

natural immunity: immunity from disease inherited by newborn offspring from birth, acquired in the womb or from the mother’s milk. Natural immunity provides young animals with protection against common diseases, reducing the need for medical interventions and enhancing animal welfare. Farmers can benefit from understanding and promoting natural immunity through proper breeding practices, ensuring good maternal health, and providing optimal nutrition for pregnant and lactating animals. This can lead to healthier livestock, reduced veterinary costs, and improved productivity.

NAWT: abbreviation for National Animal Welfare Trust. NAWT provides short-term care and rehabilitation for unwanted and abused animals, promoting humane treatment and welfare standards. Farmers can collaborate with NAWT to ensure the well-being of their animals, enhance animal welfare practices, and access resources for animal care and management. High animal welfare standards lead to healthier livestock, better product quality, and a positive reputation among consumers. Partnering with organizations like NAWT can also provide support and guidance in managing farm animal welfare issues.

Nubian goat: a breed of goat of mixed Egyptian and Indian origin, now crossed with British goats to produce the Anglo-Nubian breed. Nubian goats are valued for their high milk production and adaptability to various climates. Farmers can benefit from raising Nubian goats to diversify their livestock operations and produce high-quality dairy products. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management needs helps optimize production, improve animal welfare, and enhance farm profitability. By promoting Nubian goats, farmers can tap into niche markets and attract consumers seeking premium goat milk and products.

native: adjective always having lived, grown, or existed in a place. Tigers are native to Asia. Native plants and animals are adapted to the local environment, often requiring less maintenance and being more resilient to local pests and diseases. Farmers can benefit from incorporating native species into their farming systems, enhancing biodiversity, reducing input costs, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Native species can also support ecosystem services like pollination, pest control, and soil health, contributing to the overall productivity and resilience of the farm.

navel-ill: a disease of young livestock, especially newborn calves, kids, and lambs. It causes abscesses at the navel and swellings in some joints. Also known as joint-ill. Managing and preventing navel-ill is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of young livestock. Farmers can benefit from implementing good hygiene practices, proper navel care, and timely medical interventions to reduce the incidence of navel-ill. Ensuring healthy livestock from birth leads to better growth rates, improved animal welfare, and higher overall farm profitability.

neck collar: a leather band put around the neck of a horse or cow, to hold the animal in a stall. Neck collars are used to restrain and manage livestock safely and humanely. Proper use of neck collars can help prevent injuries, ensure animal comfort, and facilitate routine tasks like feeding, milking, or veterinary care. Farmers can benefit from using well-designed neck collars that fit properly and are made from durable materials. This ensures effective livestock management, improves animal welfare, and enhances overall farm productivity.

nitrogen compound: a substance such as a fertilizer containing mostly nitrogen with other elements. Nitrogen compounds are essential for providing plants with the nitrogen they need for growth and development. Farmers can benefit from using nitrogen compounds in their fertilization programs to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity. Understanding the different types of nitrogen compounds and their release patterns helps farmers make informed decisions about fertilizer application, ensuring optimal nutrient availability for crops and minimizing environmental impact.

neutral: adjective referring to the state of being neither acid nor alkali. pH 7 is neutral. Maintaining neutral soil pH is crucial for optimal crop growth and nutrient availability. Farmers can benefit from regularly testing soil pH and applying amendments like lime or sulfur to maintain neutral conditions. Proper soil pH management improves crop health, enhances nutrient uptake, and increases yields. Understanding soil chemistry helps farmers make informed decisions about fertilization and soil management, supporting sustainable and productive farming practices.

NAC: abbreviation for National Agricultural Centre. The NAC is a central hub for agricultural research, education, and events, including the annual Royal Show. Farmers can access the latest innovations, best practices, and emerging technologies through NAC’s programs and events. This knowledge can help them improve their farming techniques, increase efficiency, and adopt sustainable practices. Networking opportunities at the NAC can also connect farmers with industry experts, researchers, and fellow farmers, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing that can drive farm success.

nip bar: a bar fitted to moving mechanisms to prevent parts of the body from being drawn into the machine. Safety devices like nip bars are essential for protecting farm workers from injuries while operating machinery. Farmers can benefit from installing and maintaining nip bars on equipment, ensuring a safer working environment. Understanding and following safety protocols reduce the risk of accidents, enhance worker well-being, and contribute to a more productive and efficient farming operation.

non-EU: adjective not in the EU. Understanding the regulatory and market differences between EU and non-EU countries helps farmers navigate international trade and export opportunities. Farmers can benefit from staying informed about trade agreements, tariffs, and import/export requirements to access new markets and expand their business. Knowledge of non-EU trade dynamics supports strategic decision-making and enhances farm profitability by leveraging global market opportunities.