D

duckling: A young duck. Ducklings require proper care, including adequate nutrition, warmth, and protection from predators, to ensure healthy growth and development.

dither: The practice of mixing up seeds before planting. Dithering can improve seed distribution and germination rates. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and equipment for effective dithering. Understanding the benefits and applications of dithering will aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

Deadweight Average Pig Price: The average price for pigs, calculated each week from reports by abattoirs on the price they paid for the pigs they have slaughtered. It replaced the Adjusted Eurospec Average price report in 2004. Abbr DAPP. Pig farmers should stay updated with the Deadweight Average Pig Price to make informed decisions about selling their pigs. Understanding market trends and pricing can help maximize profits and plan production schedules effectively.

dubbin: Prepared grease used for waterproofing and softening leather. Dubbin is essential for maintaining leather goods used in farming, such as boots and harnesses, ensuring they remain durable and water-resistant.

disease resistance: The ability of a plant or animal to prevent or overcome infection by pathogens. Breeding for disease resistance can improve crop and livestock health and reduce the need for chemical treatments.

discharged: The process of converting a substance into gas, or the loss of electrical energy from a battery. Managing the discharge of substances and equipment is important for maintaining farm operations and safety. Farmers should implement proper handling, storage, and disposal practices to prevent contamination and accidents. Understanding the processes and impacts of discharge will aid in effective resource management.

drip irrigation: An irrigation system where water is supplied by ground-level pipes and released slowly at the base of each plant. Also called trickle irrigation, this method conserves water and reduces weed growth, making it an efficient and sustainable method for watering crops. Farmers should regularly inspect and maintain drip systems to ensure optimal performance.

durum: A type of wheat grown in southern Europe and the USA and used in making semolina for processing into pasta. Latin name: Triticum durum. Durum wheat is prized for its high protein content and strong gluten, essential for pasta production.

discuss: To talk about something with someone to share information. Discussing farm management practices and challenges with other farmers, advisors, and experts can provide valuable insights and solutions. Farmers should engage in regular discussions and networking opportunities to stay informed and improve their operations. Understanding the benefits of open communication will aid in effective knowledge sharing and farm management.

drainage area: Also known as a drainage basin or catchment area, it is the area from which all precipitation flows to a common outlet. Understanding drainage areas helps farmers manage water resources and prevent flooding.