Author: April Kingsman

Coffee: Coffee noun 1. a bush or small tree widely grown in the tropics for its seeds, which are used to make a drink. Latin name: Coffea arabica. 2. The drink prepared from the seeds of coffee bushes. COMMENT: The two main varieties of coffee are Arabica and Robusta. The Arabica shrub, (Coffea arabica) was originally grown in the southern parts of the highlands of Ethiopia, and was later introduced into south-western Arabia. The Arabica plant only grows well on altitudes of 1,000m and above. It represents 75% of the world’s total coffee production. Arabica coffee beans are generally considered to produce a higher quality drink than those obtained from the Robusta coffee plant (Coffea canephora) which originated in West Africa. Robusta coffee has a stronger and more bitter taste than Arabica. The most important area for growing coffee is South America, especially Bolivia, Brazil, and Colombia, though it is also grown in Kenya and Indonesia. Cultivating coffee plants requires specific climatic conditions and understanding market demands.

slurry injector: a tractor-hauled machine which injects slurry into the soil. Using slurry injectors enhances soil nutrient levels and promotes healthy crop growth, reducing the need for artificial fertilisers.

tile draining: A means of draining land using underground drains made of clay, plastic, or concrete. Special machines called ‘tile-laying machines’ are available for this work. Proper tile draining can improve soil health and crop yields by preventing waterlogging.

parthenocarpy: The production of seedless fruits without fertilization having taken place. Producing seedless fruits can meet market demands and reduce the need for pollination management.

squirrel: a medium-sized rodent living in trees. (NOTE: Squirrels are harmless as far as crops are concerned. There are two types of squirrel in the UK: the grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and the red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris).) Managing squirrel populations supports biodiversity and ecological balance on farms.

The study of the physical and chemical processes that occur within plants, including photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration. Plant physiology helps understand how plants grow and respond to their environment. For example, studying how different light conditions affect plant growth and development.

ground water: Ground water is water that stays in the top layers of soil or in porous rocks and can collect pollution. Managing ground water resources supports sustainable water use and protects crop health.

acidification: The process of becoming acid or making a substance more acid. Acidification of soil can affect crop yields, so farmers must use appropriate amendments to maintain soil health.

The ethical treatment and well-being of animals raised for food, fiber, or labor. This includes providing adequate living conditions, humane handling, and minimizing stress. For example, ensuring that chickens have enough space to move freely.

gut: Gut is another term for the alimentary canal. Understanding animal digestion helps farmers optimize feed and improve livestock health.