Author: April Kingsman

nitrifier: a microorganism that is involved in the process of nitrification. Nitrifiers play a crucial role in converting nitrogen into forms that plants can absorb. Farmers can benefit from practices that support healthy soil microbial communities, such as maintaining soil organic matter, proper irrigation, and avoiding excessive use of agrochemicals. Promoting the activity of nitrifiers ensures efficient nitrogen cycling, improves soil fertility, and enhances crop growth and productivity.

intake: 1. An amount of a substance taken into an organism, either eaten or absorbed. A study of food intake among grassland animals. The bird’s daily intake of insects is more than half its own weight. 2. Hill pasture which has been improved and fenced in. Helps farmers manage animal nutrition and pasture improvement.

The practices and technologies used to reduce water consumption and improve efficiency in food production and distribution, including irrigation management, recycling, and conservation. For example, adopting food product water conservation measures to ensure sustainable water use and reduce environmental impact.

International Wheat Council: A group of wheat-exporting countries. Abbr IWC. Helps wheat farmers understand and navigate the international wheat market.

haulm roller: A roller found on potato harvesters and grading machinery. Using a haulm roller helps in the efficient separation of haulm from the crop, improving the quality of harvested produce.

granule: A granule is a small artificially made particle. Granules are easier to handle and distribute than powder, making them ideal for fertilizers and pesticides.

eyespot: A disease of cereals (Cercosporella herpotrichoides), which causes lesions to form on the stem surface and gray mold inside the stem. Compare sharp eyespot. Managing eyespot disease helps farmers protect crop health and yield.

reservoir: An artificial or natural area of water, used for storing water for domestic or industrial use. Managing reservoirs ensures a reliable water supply for farm irrigation and other agricultural needs.

dicotyledon: A plant with seeds that have a cotyledon with two parts. Dicotyledons form the largest group of plants. Compare monocotyledon. Farmers should understand the characteristics and growth requirements of dicotyledons to manage crops effectively. Proper soil preparation, irrigation, and pest management are essential for successful cultivation of dicotyledons. Knowledge of plant types can aid in crop rotation and disease prevention.

A place where beehives are kept for honey production. Apiaries can be small, backyard setups or large commercial operations. For example, a beekeeper might maintain an apiary with several hives to produce honey for sale.