Month: April 2016

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.

self-sufficiency: A simple traditional way of farming with little use of modern technology that provides only enough food and other necessary materials for a family. Farmers benefit from achieving self-sufficiency for food security and sustainability.

beam: The main frame of a plough to which parts that cut into the soil are attached. Maintaining the beam ensures efficient and effective soil tillage.

Fecundity: The fertility of a plant or animal. Measuring fecundity helps farmers plan breeding programs and optimize reproductive performance.

mad cow disease: same as BSE (informal). Awareness and prevention of mad cow disease are crucial for maintaining the health of cattle and ensuring the safety of beef products, which protects the farm’s reputation and consumer trust.

medium: a substance in which an organism lives or is grown. Understanding the characteristics and uses of different media can help farmers optimize their crop and livestock production, leading to better yields and productivity.

The spaces between soil particles that are filled with air or water. Soil pore space is important for root growth, water infiltration, and gas exchange. For example, improving soil pore space through conservation tillage and organic matter addition to support healthy plant growth and optimize water use efficiency.

Clearcut: The cutting down of all the trees in an area. Understanding clearcutting techniques helps farmers manage forestry operations and ensure sustainable land use.

Indian corn: Maize. Helps farmers grow and manage maize crops.

Microscopic arthropods that live in the soil and contribute to soil health by decomposing organic matter and cycling nutrients. Soil mites play a role in improving soil structure and fertility. For example, promoting the presence of beneficial soil mites through organic farming practices to enhance soil biodiversity and support sustainable agriculture.