Category: H

Herdwick: A mountain breed of sheep, native to the Lake District, which are able to survive in bitter winter conditions. The rams have horns. Raising Herdwick sheep provides farmers with hardy livestock suited to harsh climates.

hack: 1. A riding horse 2. A horse let out to hire. To ride a horse, especially to ride a horse to a show, as opposed to taking the horse in a box. Horses used for hacking can be a source of income for farmers through rentals or participation in local shows and events.

ham: 1. The thigh of the back leg of a pig 2. Meat from this part of the pig, usually cured in brine and dried in smoke. Producing high-quality ham can be a valuable product for farmers to market and sell.

hormonal: Referring to hormones. Properly managing hormonal health in livestock ensures their growth and productivity.

heat: 1. To sow lettuces under heat to sow lettuce seed in a heated greenhouse 2. The period when a female animal will allow mating. Properly managing heat periods in livestock ensures successful breeding and optimal productivity.

humate: A salt that is derived from humus. Using humates improves soil fertility and supports healthy crop growth.

hedgelaying: A traditional method of cultivating hedges, where tall saplings are cut through halfway and then bent over so that they lie horizontally and make a thick barrier. Practicing hedgelaying maintains dense, effective hedges that support wildlife and prevent livestock escape.

holly: An evergreen tree (Ilex aquifolium) producing hard white timber. Growing holly can provide valuable timber and ornamental products for farmers.

homologous pair: A pair of chromosomes in a diploid organism that are structurally similar and have the same arrangement of genes, although they may carry different alleles. Understanding homologous pairs aids in genetic research and breeding programs.

Hampshire Down: A short stocky early-maturing sheep, originating from Berkshire ewe flocks and Southdown rams. Raising Hampshire Down sheep offers farmers a breed known for early maturity and good meat quality.