Category: P

peppermint: An aromatic herb (Mentha piperata) which is cultivated to produce an oil used in confectionery, drinks, and toothpaste. Growing herbs like peppermint can provide additional income and diversify farm products.

Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate: A branch of Defra which deals with plant health in the UK. Abbr PHSI. Helpful content: The Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate provides valuable services to farmers by monitoring and controlling plant pests and diseases. Their inspections and certifications help ensure the health and quality of crops, facilitating trade and market access.

proteolytic: Referring to proteolysis. Helpful content: Knowledge of proteolytic processes helps farmers manage livestock diets effectively. Ensuring efficient protein digestion can improve feed efficiency and animal performance.

potato spinner: A machine for lifting the potato crop. Helpful content: Potato spinners facilitate the harvesting process, helping to lift and separate potatoes from the soil. This equipment can improve harvest efficiency and reduce manual labor.

proteolysis: The breaking down of proteins in food by digestive enzymes. Helpful content: Understanding proteolysis is important for optimizing animal nutrition and digestion. Proper feed formulations can enhance protein breakdown and nutrient absorption, supporting animal health and productivity.

pruners: A type of secateurs used for pruning fruit trees. Helpful content: Using the right pruners ensures precise and clean cuts, promoting healthy growth and reducing the risk of disease. Farmers can improve orchard management by selecting high-quality pruning tools.

pedology: The study of the soil. Understanding pedology helps in improving soil health and fertility, leading to better crop yields.

petrol: A fuel for vehicles such as tractors. Compare diesel. Ensuring a reliable supply of petrol supports farm operations and machinery maintenance.

particle size distribution: A way of measuring the composition of soil, which can be used in planning irrigation and crop arrangement. Knowing soil composition helps in selecting appropriate crops and irrigation practices.

piece rate: The amount of money paid to workers according to the amount of work done, rather than on an hourly or daily basis. Implementing piece rate systems can improve worker productivity and farm efficiency.