Author: April Kingsman

French Nettle: Same as red dead-nettle. Properly managing French nettles helps maintain crop health and biodiversity.

DPA: An abbreviation for direct proportional application, a system ensuring that the output from a sprayer is proportional to the speed at which it moves forward. This system helps farmers apply pesticides and fertilizers more efficiently and effectively.

high-tech: Technologically advanced (informal). Adopting high-tech solutions can improve farm management, productivity, and sustainability.

Cramp: Cramp noun a spasm of the muscles where the muscle may remain contracted for some time. Understanding muscle cramps aids in managing livestock health and veterinary care.

nematicide: a substance that kills nematodes. Nematodes are microscopic worms that can cause significant damage to crops by feeding on roots and other plant parts. Using nematicides effectively can help farmers control nematode infestations, protecting crop health and yields. Farmers can benefit from understanding the proper application methods and timing for nematicides to minimize environmental impact and ensure effectiveness. Integrated pest management strategies that include nematicides can lead to healthier crops, reduced losses, and higher farm productivity.

black band disease: A disease of sugarcane caused by the fungus Ceratocystis paradoxa. Early detection and treatment of black band disease prevent crop losses and maintain sugarcane health.

Contract Grower: Contract grower noun a grower who produces a crop to order for a specific outlet ‘Our contract growers have to grow to our specifications; we visit them every week and make a report”, says Mr. Verduyn. If the crop is not to standard, and management advice has not been followed, the contract is unlikely to be renewed.’ [Farmers Weekly]. Engaging in contract growing ensures market access and stable income for farmers.

self-purification: The ability of water to clean itself of polluting substances. Farmers benefit from understanding self-purification processes for sustainable water management.

goatling: A goatling is a female goat between the ages of one and two years, which has not yet borne a kid. Understanding goat development stages helps farmers manage breeding programs and improve herd health.

Lanolin: Lanolin is a fat extracted from sheep’s wool used in making soaps, skin creams, and shampoos. Utilizing lanolin adds value to wool production and diversifies farm income streams.