Author: April Kingsman

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs: The UK government department responsible for farming, the environment, animal welfare, and rural development in England and Wales. Abbr Defra. Farmers should engage with Defra to access resources, support, and guidance on sustainable farming practices. Utilizing Defra’s programs can enhance farm productivity, environmental stewardship, and compliance with regulations. Staying informed about Defra initiatives will help farmers adopt best practices and benefit from available opportunities.

boat: Referring to the curved shape of leaves or pods. Understanding plant morphology, such as boating, helps farmers identify and manage crops.

sulphate of ammonia: same as ammonium sulphate. Understanding and using ammonium sulphate effectively supports soil fertility and healthy crop growth, enhancing farm productivity.

methyl bromide: an effective chemical for sterilising soil and fumigating spaces. Understanding the application and effects of methyl bromide can help farmers manage pest control and soil sterilization more effectively, ensuring better crop health and yields.

Fructose: Fruit sugar found in honey as well as in fruit. Properly managing fructose levels supports plant health and crop quality.

burial: The act of burying something, such as waste or dead animals. Proper burial practices ensure farm hygiene and prevent environmental contamination.

isohyet: A line on a map linking points of equal rainfall. Helps farmers understand precipitation patterns.

allogamy: Fertilization by pollen from different flowers or from flowers of genetically different plants of the same species. Understanding allogamy helps farmers manage pollination and improve crop yields.

natural insecticide: an insecticide produced from plant extracts. Natural insecticides offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals, helping farmers manage pests without harming beneficial insects or the environment. By using natural insecticides, farmers can reduce chemical residues on crops, improve soil health, and support biodiversity. This approach aligns with organic farming practices and can attract consumers who prefer naturally grown produce, enhancing marketability and farm profitability.

Compositae: Compositae /k?m pozitai/ plural noun former name for Asteraceae. Understanding plant families like Compositae aids in crop classification and management.