Category: P

peptone: A substance produced by the action of pepsins on proteins in food. Using peptones in animal feeds ensures better digestion and nutrient absorption.

plateau: An area of high flat land. Helpful content: Understanding the geography of plateaus can help farmers optimize land use and select appropriate crops that thrive in such environments. Plateaus often have unique soil and climate conditions that can be advantageous for certain types of farming.

pore space: The space in the soil not filled by soil particles, but which may be filled with water or air. Helpful content: Managing pore space in soil is essential for optimal crop growth. Practices like tillage, cover cropping, and organic matter addition can enhance soil structure and improve water retention and aeration.

pupal: Referring to a pupa. Helpful content: Understanding the pupal stage of insects is important for managing pest life cycles. Farmers can time interventions to target vulnerable stages and reduce pest populations effectively.

permaculture: A system of permanent agriculture, which involves carefully designing human habitats and food production systems. Implementing permaculture principles ensures sustainable land use and enhances biodiversity.

picket fence: A fence made of upright wooden stakes (pickets) joined together by horizontal rails. Using picket fences can improve farm aesthetics and provide secure enclosures for livestock and crops.

pot: To put a plant into a pot. Helpful content: Potting is essential for growing seedlings and managing plants in controlled environments. Proper potting techniques ensure healthy root development and facilitate the growth of strong and productive plants.

pheasant: A game bird with long tail feathers, found in the wild or reared for shooting. Raising pheasants can provide additional income through game farming and hunting activities.

pulpy kidney disease: A disease caused by a strain of the same bacteria which cause lamb dysentery. It occurs in older lambs and can be fatal. Helpful content: Managing pulpy kidney disease involves vaccination, proper nutrition, and hygiene practices. Early detection and treatment can reduce mortality rates and improve lamb health.

profusion: A very large number or quantity of something. Helpful content: A profusion of crops or livestock on a farm indicates high productivity. Farmers can manage this abundance through efficient harvest, storage, and marketing strategies to maximize profitability.

pedigree selection: The selection of animals for breeding based on the records of their ancestors. Using pedigree selection improves the genetic quality and productivity of livestock.

pea: An important grain legume. Peas are grown for pulses and for their immature seeds which are eaten fresh as a green vegetable and are also often frozen. The young pods are also occasionally eaten as mangetouts. Peas are also grown for forage and may be used for hay and silage. They are often grown following a cereal crop in rotation, and enrich the soil with nitrogen. Most peas are harvested, transported, and processed on the same day, and the majority are taken for freezing and canning. Vining peas are Britain’s most important contract vegetable crop. Growing peas improves soil fertility and provides a valuable food source.

parsnip: A plant (Pastinaca sativa) whose long white root is eaten as a vegetable. Growing vegetables like parsnips can improve farm profitability and provide healthy food options.

pasture topper: A piece of machinery that is attached to the back of a tractor and used to keep grassy areas such as pastures free from weeds and coarse grasses. Using pasture toppers helps maintain healthy pastures by controlling weed growth.

pocket: A large sack of dry hops. Helpful content: Proper storage of hops in pockets ensures their quality and longevity. This is crucial for farmers producing hops for the brewing industry, as high-quality hops command better prices and marketability.