Author: April Kingsman

holding: Land and buildings held by a freehold or leasehold occupier. Properly managing holdings supports farm productivity and sustainability.

bitter pit: A disorder in apples caused by calcium deficiency. Addressing bitter pit through proper nutrition improves apple quality and marketability.

turbary: A place where turf or peat is dug for fuel. Understanding turbary practices can provide sustainable fuel sources and support land management.

Practices and initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of dairy production and ensuring long-term viability. For example, implementing dairy sustainability programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve resources.

IFR: Institute of Food Research – a not-for-profit scientific institute which advises on food safety, diet and health. Ensures farmers have access to the latest research on food safety and nutrition.

refrigeration: A method of prolonging the life of various foods by storing them at very low temperatures. Effective refrigeration reduces spoilage and waste, enhancing farm profitability.

pathogenic: Able to cause or produce a disease. Managing pathogenic organisms helps in preventing and controlling diseases in agriculture.

metritis: an infection of the lining of the womb in cattle, the symptoms of which are a white discharge and/or a high temperature. Also called whites. Understanding and managing metritis can help farmers ensure the health and productivity of their livestock.

The weight of an animal, typically measured in pounds or kilograms. Body weight is an important indicator of growth, health, and productivity. For example, weighing cattle regularly to monitor growth rates and adjust feeding programs.

tillering: The process of developing several seedheads in a plant of wheat, barley, or oats. Tillering leads to the production of a heavier yield, and can be induced by rolling the young crop in the spring when it begins to grow. Understanding tillering is crucial for optimizing crop management and improving yields.