Author: April Kingsman

tedder: A machine used to lift and loosen a swath, enabling air to circulate through the cut crop. Using tedders can speed up hay drying, ensuring high-quality forage for livestock.

The provision of meals prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients from the farm, often served in a farm setting. For example, offering farm-to-table dining experiences to showcase seasonal produce and connect with consumers.

energy: The force or strength to carry out activities. You need to eat carbohydrates to give you energy. 2. Electricity or other fuel. We have to review our energy requirements regularly. Managing energy efficiently helps farmers reduce costs and improve sustainability.

sciarid fly: A pest (Bradysia) affecting greenhouse pot plants. The larvae feed on fine roots causing plants to wilt. Farmers benefit from controlling sciarid fly to protect greenhouse crops and ensure healthy plant growth.

Cherry: A small usually sweet fruit with a single hard stone, produced by cherry trees. Growing cherries provides nutritious fruit and valuable produce for fresh markets and processing, contributing to farm income.

The measurement of the fat layer around the kidneys, used to assess carcass fat and yield. For instance, measuring kidney fat thickness to optimize meat quality and processing efficiency.

gander: A male goose. Knowledge of breeding practices involving ganders can improve flock management and production of geese.

The process of building and maintaining relationships with individuals and groups affected by or interested in food production and distribution businesses, including customers, employees, suppliers, and regulators. For example, implementing food product stakeholder engagement strategies to ensure open communication and address stakeholder concerns.

tree nursery: A place where trees are grown from seed until they are large enough to be planted out. Utilizing tree nurseries can ensure a reliable supply of healthy saplings for reforestation or commercial planting.

age: The number of years during which a person or thing has existed. The size varies according to age. Farmers need to know the age of their livestock to manage breeding and productivity effectively.