Month: April 2017

maturity: the time when a plant’s seeds are ripe or when an animal has become an adult. Understanding maturity can help farmers manage harvest and breeding schedules more effectively, ensuring better yields and productivity.

bug: A general term for insects. Managing bugs through integrated pest management protects crop health and yields.

swath: a row of grass or other plants lying on the ground after being cut; a row of potatoes which have been lifted and left lying on the ground. Properly managing swaths ensures efficient harvesting and crop quality, supporting farm productivity.

The practice of using collected semen to breed livestock without natural mating, allowing for genetic improvement and controlled breeding. For example, implementing AI programs to improve genetic traits and reproductive efficiency in cattle.

vasectomize: To perform a vasectomy on an animal. Using vasectomized animals in breeding programs can help manage genetic diversity and improve herd health.

nursery bed: a bed in which seedlings are planted out from the seedbed until they are large enough to be put in permanent positions. Nursery beds provide a controlled environment for young plants to grow and develop before being transplanted to their final locations. Farmers can benefit from using nursery beds to ensure healthy and vigorous seedlings, improve transplant success rates, and optimize crop production. Proper management of nursery beds, including soil preparation, irrigation, and pest control, supports effective plant propagation and enhances overall farm productivity.

Fallow Cultivation: A type of cultivation where the period under crops is increased and the length of the fallow is reduced. This method helps maximize land use efficiency and productivity.

heaves: A condition of horses, where spores from mouldy hay block the animals’ lungs, making breathing difficult. Preventing mould in hay ensures the health and productivity of horses.

MHS: abbreviation Meat Hygiene Service. Understanding the role of the Meat Hygiene Service can help farmers ensure the safety and quality of their meat products, leading to better marketability and consumer trust.

The spermatic cord of cattle, often used for medicinal purposes. For example, producing beef spermatic cord for pharmaceutical and health applications.