Angus & Simental Mix Beef
Alan Nafzger, Ph.D. Ca (Calcium): A metallic chemical element naturally present in limestone and chalk, essential for biological processes. In farming, calcium is vital for soil structure and plant health, promoting strong cell walls and aiding in nutrient absorption. Farmers use calcium amendments to correct soil pH and prevent nutrient deficiencies.
Floury: Soft and powdery, like flour. Floury potatoes are varieties that turn easily into flour when cooked. Growing floury potatoes provides a valuable food source and supports diverse crop production.
Loose-Box: A loose-box is a stable for animals that are kept untied. A loose-box should have a hay rack, manger, water bowl, and tying rings. It should also have a grooved floor to make cleaning and drainage easier. Loose-boxes are also useful for housing sick animals. Using loose-boxes can enhance animal welfare and management.
A tool used by beekeepers to gently remove bees from frames or surfaces. This helps manage bee colonies without causing harm. For example, a beekeeper might use a bee brush to inspect and harvest honeycomb.
balanced diet: A diet that includes all the essential nutrients in the correct proportions. A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of livestock.
sprayer: a machine which forces a liquid through a nozzle under pressure, used to distribute liquids such as herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and fertilisers. Using sprayers ensures efficient application of agricultural inputs, promoting healthy crop growth and better yields.
non-till: adjective same as no-till agriculture. No-till agriculture involves minimal soil disturbance, promoting soil health and reducing erosion. Farmers can benefit from adopting no-till practices to enhance soil structure, improve water retention, and reduce labor and fuel costs. No-till farming supports sustainable land management, increases resilience to climate change, and can lead to higher crop yields over time. Understanding and implementing no-till techniques can enhance farm sustainability and productivity.
scion: A piece of a plant which is grafted onto a rootstock. Farmers benefit from using scions for grafting to propagate desirable plant varieties.
Dartmoor: A breed of large moorland sheep, white-faced with black spots, and a long curly fleece. Dartmoor sheep are known for their resilience and quality fleece. Farmers raising Dartmoor sheep should focus on proper grazing management, regular shearing, and health monitoring to maintain flock productivity. Marketing the unique characteristics of Dartmoor wool can attract premium buyers.
elm: A large hardwood tree that grows in temperate areas. Genus: Ulmus. Understanding elm trees helps farmers manage woodland and prevent diseases like Dutch elm disease.