March 10, 2025
G

Growing Point

growing point: A growing point is a point on the stem of a plant where growth occurs, often at the tip of the stem or branch. Understanding growing points helps farmers optimize pruning and plant management for better yields.

M

Milk Producer

milk producer: a farmer who is registered with Defra, and produces milk in compliance with the regulations concerning clean milk production. Understanding the regulations and requirements for milk producers can help farmers ensure better quality and marketability of their milk products.

M

Mosquito

mosquito: a flying insect, some species of which feed on the blood of mammals, and may carry diseases such as malaria. Understanding and managing mosquito infestations can help farmers protect their livestock and crops, ensuring better health and productivity.

I

Insectivorous

insectivorous: Referring to an animal or plant that feeds mainly on insects. Pitcher plants and sundews are insectivorous. Helps farmers understand beneficial insectivorous species.

D

DDT

DDT: An insecticide that was formerly used especially against malaria-carrying mosquitoes. It is now banned in many countries because of its toxicity and ability to accumulate in the environment. Formula: C14H9Cl5. Full form dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. Farmers should be aware of the historical use and current ban on DDT to avoid environmental contamination and legal issues. Understanding alternative pest control methods will help manage pests effectively while complying with regulations and protecting the environment.

Bulk Tank

A large refrigerated storage tank used to hold and cool milk on dairy farms before it is transported for processing. Bulk tanks are essential for maintaining milk quality. For example, storing milk in bulk tanks to keep it fresh until it is collected by milk tankers.

P

Particle

particle: A very small piece of a substance. Soil particles. Particles of volcanic ash were carried into the upper atmosphere. Understanding soil particle size and distribution aids in soil management and crop production.

S

Single Flower

single flower: A flower with only one series of petals, as opposed to a double flower. Farmers benefit from understanding single flowers for better crop and ornamental plant management.

S

Sycamore

sycamore: a large tree with a smooth, greyish trunk, large broad leaves, and small yellowish-green flowers. Properly managing sycamore trees ensures healthy growth and optimal yields, supporting productive forestry and agricultural practices.

C

Chillshelter

Chillshelter: A feeding area surrounded by a high embankment to protect cattle against the cold. Using chillshelters ensures cattle receive adequate nutrition and protection from harsh weather, maintaining their health and productivity.

R

Responsible Care

responsible care: An initiative of the chemical industry which requires member firms to follow codes of conduct on such matters as toxic materials, waste reduction, chemical-accident minimization, worker safety, and community consultation. Following responsible care principles ensures safe and sustainable agricultural practices.

R

Recessive

recessive: (of a gene or genetically controlled characteristic) suppressed by the presence of a corresponding dominant gene. Understanding genetics helps farmers with selective breeding programs to enhance desirable traits in crops and livestock.

D

Defoliate

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.

Cattle Milk Yogurt

A dairy product made by fermenting milk with beneficial bacteria, resulting in a thick, tangy product. Yogurt is consumed as a snack, dessert, or ingredient in recipes. For instance, making Greek yogurt by straining regular yogurt to achieve a thicker consistency.

Soil Texture

The relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil, which affect its physical properties and behavior. Soil texture influences water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability. For example, analyzing soil texture to determine its suitability for different crops and management practices.

G

Gleying

gleying: A set of properties of soil which indicate poor drainage and lack of oxygen. The signs are a blue-grey color, rusty patches, and standing surface water. Identifying gleying helps farmers address drainage issues and improve soil health.

L

Livestock Records

Livestock Records: Livestock records are simple records of all livestock, which each farm has to make and which are then available for the Defra returns which are compiled each year. Maintaining accurate livestock records can help farmers track animal health and productivity and comply with regulatory requirements.

H

Hump

hump: The rounded flesh on the back or shoulders of an animal, such as a camel, or certain breeds of cattle. Managing humps in livestock supports their health and well-being.

C

Crumb

Crumb: Crumb noun 1. the soft inside part of baked bread, surrounded by the harder crust 2. arrangement of soil particles in a group. ped. Understanding soil crumbs aids in managing soil health and structure.

Freshening

The process of a dairy cow giving birth and beginning to produce milk. Freshening is a critical event in a dairy cow’s production cycle. For example, managing freshening to ensure cow health and optimize milk production.

P

Pest

pest: An organism which attacks a plant or animal, causing damage and reducing the value of the crop or animal. Managing pests effectively prevents economic losses and ensures healthy crop and livestock production.

R

Residual

residual: Referring to the amount of something that is left behind. Understanding residual levels helps farmers manage pesticide and fertilizer use, ensuring food safety and environmental health.

G

Grain Drier

grain drier: A grain drier is a machine that dries moist grain before storage. Using grain driers prevents spoilage and ensures the grain’s quality, improving marketability and storage efficiency.

S

Stag

stag: a male deer; the male of various animals castrated after maturity; a male turkey. Managing stag populations on farms supports biodiversity and ecological balance, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Contagious Mastitis

A type of mastitis transmitted between cows, often during milking. Contagious mastitis is managed through milking hygiene and treatment protocols. For instance, using proper milking techniques and equipment disinfection to prevent the spread of contagious mastitis.

N

Normandy

Normandy: a breed of cattle from north-west France that have a white coat with red-brown patches. The animals are reared for meat and for milk, from which Camembert cheese is made. The Normandy breed is valued for its dual-purpose capabilities, providing both high-quality milk and meat. Farmers can benefit from raising Normandy cattle to diversify their livestock operations and produce premium products like Camembert cheese. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management needs helps optimize production, improve animal welfare, and enhance farm profitability.

O

Outstation

outstation: In New Zealand and Australia, a sheep station separate from the main station. Managing outstations effectively can enhance livestock production and resource use. Farmers can benefit from optimizing outstation management to improve animal welfare and productivity.