Author: April Kingsman

inorganic fertiliser: An artificially synthesized fertilizer. Helps farmers use inorganic fertilizers to enhance soil fertility and crop production.

A hearty dish made from beef, vegetables, and broth, often slow-cooked to develop flavor. For example, producing beef stew meat for use in homemade and pre-packaged meals.

hay-sweep: An implement used to collect hay from swaths and carry it to a stack. Using a hay-sweep improves the efficiency of hay collection, reducing labor costs and time.

natural: adjective referring to nature, or produced by nature not by humans. Natural materials and methods often align with sustainable farming practices, promoting environmental health and resource conservation. Farmers can benefit from using natural fertilizers, pest control methods, and materials, reducing reliance on synthetic inputs and minimizing environmental impact. This approach can improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and attract consumers who prioritize sustainably produced goods, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and profitable farming operation.

NFU: abbreviation for National Farmers’ Union. The National Farmers’ Union advocates for farmers’ rights and interests, providing a unified voice in policy discussions and negotiations. Membership in the NFU offers farmers access to valuable resources, including legal advice, market information, and training programs. By participating in the NFU, farmers can influence agricultural policies, stay informed about industry trends, and benefit from collective bargaining power, ultimately strengthening their farm businesses.

branding iron: A tool used to apply a brand to livestock. Using branding irons ensures clear and permanent identification marks on animals.

Fumigation: Disinfection by means of gas or fumes that penetrate into cracks and holes, a process that is probably more efficient than spraying or scrubbing. Properly managing fumigation practices ensures effective pest control and farm hygiene.

Frugivore: An animal that mainly eats fruit. Many bats and birds are frugivores. Understanding frugivore behavior supports biodiversity and ecological balance on farms.

spray irrigation: a system of irrigation using sprinklers which are located along a boom. Some booms rotate and can distribute water over a large circular area. Using spray irrigation ensures efficient water distribution, promoting healthy crop growth and sustainable water use.

Contact Insecticide: Contact insecticide noun a substance such as DDT that kills insects which touch it (NOTE: DDT is now banned in many countries because of its toxicity and ability to accumulate in the environment). Using contact insecticides helps control pests and protect crops.