March 9, 2025
R

Rill

rill: A very narrow stream; a small channel eroded in soil by rainwater. It can be removed during ordinary cultivation. Managing rills helps farmers control soil erosion and maintain field productivity.

Q

Quince

quince: A small tree (Cydonia vulgaris) native of western Asia, the hard pear-shaped sour fruit of which are rich in pectin and used to make jellies and other preserves. Growing quince can provide farmers with a unique fruit crop that appeals to niche markets and adds diversity to their farming operations.

R

Rural Payments Agency

Rural Payments Agency: The organization that is responsible for all CAP schemes in England and for some schemes in the rest of the UK. Abbreviation: RPA. The RPA supports farmers by administering agricultural subsidy schemes and ensuring compliance with regulations.

P

Passport

passport: An official document issued to many types of animals or plants being moved from one country to another, certifying freedom from disease. Issuing animal and plant passports ensures biosecurity and facilitates international trade.

P

Phytotron

phytotron: A greenhouse or laboratory where conditions such as light, temperature, and humidity can be controlled to study the effects on plant growth. Using phytotrons in research helps in developing effective agricultural practices and improving crop production.

G

Grub

grub: A grub is a small caterpillar or larva. Grubbing up or out means to dig up a plant with its roots. Managing grubs and properly removing unwanted plants ensures healthy crops and efficient land use.

T

Triazole

triazole: One of a group of systemic, protectant, and curative fungicides, e.g., tebuconazole or myclobutanil. Triazoles can be used on a wide range of crops. Utilizing triazole fungicides can protect crops from diseases and improve yield.

D

Dpa

DPA: An abbreviation for direct proportional application, a system ensuring that the output from a sprayer is proportional to the speed at which it moves forward. This system helps farmers apply pesticides and fertilizers more efficiently and effectively.

N

Nematicide

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.

C

Contract Grower

Contract Grower: Contract grower noun a grower who produces a crop to order for a specific outlet ‘Our contract growers have to grow to our specifications; we visit them every week and make a report”, says Mr. Verduyn. If the crop is not to standard, and management advice has not been followed, the contract is unlikely to be renewed.’ [Farmers Weekly]. Engaging in contract growing ensures market access and stable income for farmers.

G

Goatling

goatling: A goatling is a female goat between the ages of one and two years, which has not yet borne a kid. Understanding goat development stages helps farmers manage breeding programs and improve herd health.

S

Sheep-Dip

sheep-dip: A chemical preparation used in a dipping bath to disinfect sheep to control diseases such as sheep scab. All sheep in Britain are dipped for scale once a year, following the ministerial decision to have a single national dip. Dipping ceased to be compulsory in the UK in 1992. It is illegal to buy organophosphorous sheep-dip without a certificate of competence. Farmers benefit from using sheep-dip to control diseases and maintain livestock health.

A

Agricultural Waste Stakeholders’ Forum

Agricultural Waste Stakeholders’ Forum: A group that includes representatives of government, farming organizations, waste companies, and farm suppliers with the aim of identifying and dealing with issues of waste management in agriculture. Farmers benefit from participating in forums to address waste management challenges and find solutions.

E

Establish

establish: 1. To work out or calculate something. To establish a position to find out where something is. 2. To start or set up something. We established routine procedures very quickly. To establish communication to make contact. To establish control to get control. 3. To settle or grow permanently. The starling has become established in all parts of the USA. Even established trees have been attacked by the disease. Establishing routines and procedures helps farmers improve farm management and productivity.

D

Dig

dig: To turn over ground with a fork or spade. Digging is an important practice for preparing soil for planting and improving its structure. Farmers and gardeners should use proper techniques and tools for effective digging and soil preparation. Understanding the benefits of digging will aid in creating optimal growing conditions for crops.

C

Cutter

Cutter: Cutter noun a pig finished for both the fresh meat and the processing markets at weights similar to bacon pigs, i.e. 80–90kg live weight. Understanding cutter pigs aids in managing livestock production and meat quality.