Category: D

deer: A ruminant animal, the males of which have distinctive antlers. COMMENT: There are three wild species in the UK: the fallow deer (Dama dama), the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and the red deer (Cervus elaphus), which is also raised commercially. Deer are hardy animals, and are well adapted to severe winters. They can suffer from tuberculosis, and the British government has introduced a compulsory slaughter scheme for animals suffering from the disease. According to the 2000 agricultural survey, the total number of farmed deer holdings in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland is 300, farming approximately 36,000 deer. They represent less than 0.6% of the farmed animals in the UK (excluding poultry). Farmers involved in deer farming should focus on proper health management, nutrition, and housing to ensure the productivity and welfare of their herds. Understanding the market for venison and other deer products can help farmers optimize their operations and profitability.

direct drilling: A form of minimal cultivation where the seed is sown directly into the field without previous cultivation. Several types of drill are used, with heavy discs for cutting narrow drills, or strong cultivator tines. Direct drilling can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and save time and labor. Farmers should select the appropriate type of drill for their needs and use it properly to achieve optimal crop establishment. Understanding the benefits and applications of direct drilling will aid in effective soil management and crop production.

Dorking: A breed of fowl, with dark and silver-grey plumage, or a silver-grey breed of bantam. Dorkings are valued for their meat and egg production. Proper care and management can maximize their productivity and health.

dibber: A hand tool for making holes in soil to plant small plants. Using a dibber can improve planting efficiency and accuracy. Farmers and gardeners should select the right type of dibber for their needs and use it properly to ensure successful planting. Understanding the benefits and applications of a dibber can aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

danthonia: A tufted pasture grass found in Australia and New Zealand. Danthonia is valued for its drought tolerance and suitability for grazing. Farmers can use danthonia in pasture management to improve forage availability, especially in arid regions. Rotational grazing and proper fertilization will help maintain healthy danthonia pastures, providing consistent feed for livestock.

dietary fibre: Same as roughage. COMMENT: Dietary fibre is found in cereals, nuts, fruit, and some green vegetables. It is believed to be necessary to help digestion and to avoid developing constipation, obesity, and appendicitis. Providing dietary fiber is important for maintaining the digestive health of livestock. Farmers should include adequate roughage in the diets of their animals to promote proper digestion and overall health. Understanding the sources and benefits of dietary fiber will aid in effective feed management.

deadnettle: Referring to red deadnettle. Red deadnettle can be a weed in gardens and fields. Farmers and gardeners should manage this plant through regular weeding and the use of herbicides. Understanding its growth patterns and implementing appropriate control methods will help maintain healthy crops and reduce competition for resources.

depression: An area of low atmospheric pressure. Also called low. Understanding weather patterns, including depressions, is important for managing farm activities. Farmers should monitor weather forecasts and plan operations accordingly to minimize the impact of adverse weather. Implementing weather-related risk management strategies can help protect crops and livestock from damage.

dried blood: An organic fertilizer with a nitrogen content of 10% – 13%. It is a soluble quick-acting fertilizer, used mainly by horticulturists. Dried blood helps improve soil fertility and supports healthy plant growth.

discontinue: To stop making or doing something. Discontinuing certain practices or products may be necessary for improving farm operations or complying with regulations. Farmers should stay informed about industry trends and regulatory changes to make informed decisions about discontinuation. Understanding the impacts of discontinuation will aid in developing effective management strategies.