Month: October 2011

thatch: To cover a roof with reeds, straw, grass, or other plant material. Proper thatching techniques can provide sustainable roofing options and utilize farm by-products effectively.

Methods used to identify individual cattle, including ear tags, tattoos, and electronic identification. Proper identification is essential for management and record-keeping. For example, tagging and recording each calf at birth to track growth and health.

The study and application of dietary principles to support honeybee health and productivity, including the availability of pollen and nectar sources. For example, providing supplemental feeding to honeybee colonies during periods of low forage availability.

oil crop: A crop grown for extraction of the oil in its seeds, such as sunflower or oilseed rape. Growing oil crops can provide farmers with a valuable source of income and diversify their production systems. Understanding market demand and best practices for oil crop cultivation can enhance profitability.

depress: To make a price lower. Overproduction of some items in the EU may depress the price level in the open market. Farmers should monitor market trends and manage production to avoid overproduction and price depression. Diversifying income sources and exploring value-added products can help stabilize farm income. Understanding market dynamics will aid in making informed production and marketing decisions.

Lush: Lush refers to vegetation which is thick and green. The cattle were put to graze on the lush grass by the river. Lush tropical vegetation rapidly covered the clearing. Managing lush vegetation can enhance pasture quality and livestock nutrition.

manure cycle: the process by which waste materials from plants, animals and humans are returned to the soil to restore nutrients. Understanding and managing the manure cycle can help farmers maintain soil health and fertility, leading to better crop yields and farm sustainability.

Colloid: Colloid /k?l?id/ noun a substance with very small particles that do not settle but remain in suspension in a liquid. Understanding colloids helps in the formulation of pesticides and fertilizers.

wind chill factor: The wind chill factor calculates the risk of cold weather exposure by combining wind speed and temperature. Farmers can use this information to protect livestock and workers from harsh weather conditions.

bong: A large wooden vessel for storing water or other liquids. Proper storage methods like using bongs ensure water availability and management on the farm.