Category: P

Prunus: The Latin name for the family of trees including the plum, peach, almond, cherry, damson, apricot. Helpful content: Understanding the Prunus family helps farmers manage orchards effectively. Knowledge of each species’ requirements and characteristics can improve cultivation practices and yields.

photoperiodism: The regulation of growth or behavior of plants and animals by the length of daylight. Managing photoperiodism in crop production can enhance flowering and fruiting, leading to better yields.

pore: 1. A tiny hole in the skin through which sweat passes. 2. A tiny space in a rock formation or in the soil. 3. Same as stoma. Helpful content: Understanding soil porosity is crucial for effective water and nutrient management. Proper soil management practices can improve pore space, enhancing water infiltration, root growth, and overall soil health.

planning controls: Legislation used by a local authority to control building. Helpful content: Understanding planning controls is crucial for farmers who plan to construct new buildings or modify existing ones. Knowledge of these regulations helps avoid legal issues and ensures that developments meet local standards and requirements.

Processors and Growers Research Organisation: A crop research and development centre funded by levies. Abbr PGRO. Helpful content: The Processors and Growers Research Organisation provides valuable research and development support for farmers. Utilizing their findings can help improve crop production techniques, pest management, and overall farm productivity.

pitch: A dark sticky substance obtained from tar, used to make objects watertight. Helpful content: Pitch is essential for farmers when waterproofing wooden structures or tools, ensuring durability and longevity. Proper waterproofing can prevent damage from moisture, extending the life of barns, fences, and equipment.

pea and bean weevil: A pest (Sitona sp) affecting peas, beans, and other legumes. The eggs are laid in the soil near the plants, allowing the larvae to feed on the roots. The adult weevils feed on the leaves, making U-shaped notches in the edges of the leaves. Managing pea and bean weevil infestations is essential for protecting legume crops and ensuring healthy yields.

poly-: Prefix meaning many, made of polythene, or touching many organs. Helpful content: Understanding the various applications of polythene in farming, such as in mulching, greenhouses, and packaging, can help farmers improve efficiency and protect crops. Polyethylene products can enhance agricultural productivity by providing durable and versatile solutions.

pineapple pineapple pineapple: A tropical fruit with a sweet, juicy flesh. Growing and processing pineapples provides valuable fruit crops that meet market demand and offer nutritional benefits.

physiology: The science of the normal functioning of plants, animals, and the human body. Understanding physiology is essential for optimizing animal and plant health and improving farm productivity.