Month: October 2017

terracing: A soil conservation practice that involves creating stepped levels on sloped land to reduce erosion and runoff. Terracing helps improve water retention and soil fertility.

service: Of a male animal, to mate with a female. Farmers benefit from understanding and managing servicing for effective breeding and livestock production.

Chervil: A herb (Anthriscus cerefolium) used as a garnish or in salads and soups. Growing chervil provides a specialty crop for culinary use, enhancing farm product diversity and income.

peach: A small deciduous tree (Prunus persica) found particularly in Mediterranean areas, though it will grow as far north as southern England. The fruit is large and juicy, with a downy skin, but they cannot be kept for any length of time. (NOTE: Peaches are divided into two groups: the freestone (where the flesh is not attached to the stone), and the clingstone. The nectarine is a form of peach with a smooth skin.) Growing peaches provides a valuable fruit crop that meets market demand and can be sold fresh or processed.

groundsel: Groundsel is a common weed (Senecio vulgaris) that affects most crops. Managing groundsel prevents competition with crops, ensuring higher yields and quality.

pollinate: To transfer pollen from the anther to the stigma in a flower. Helpful content: Effective pollination is essential for fruit and seed production. Farmers can use techniques like hand pollination or introduce pollinators to improve crop yields and quality.

staphylococcus: a bacterium that causes boils and food poisoning. Genus: Staphylococcus. Understanding staphylococcus bacteria helps farmers manage livestock health and prevent disease outbreaks, supporting productivity and well-being.

mating likes: same as assortive mating. Understanding mating preferences can help farmers improve breeding programs and ensure better livestock productivity.

brash: Soil composed of loose, broken rock fragments. Understanding soil types like brash helps farmers manage soil fertility and crop production.