D

dock: A plant of the genus Rumex, which has edible leaves and is used in folk medicine. Managing dock plants involves implementing proper weed control practices. Farmers should use appropriate techniques and equipment to manage dock populations effectively. Understanding the benefits and challenges of dock plants will aid in effective weed management and crop production.

dry organic matter: Organic matter such as sewage sludge or manure that has been dried out and may be used as a fertilizer. Abbr DOM. Dry organic matter is a valuable resource for improving soil fertility and structure.

desertification: The process by which fertile land becomes desert as a result of various factors, including drought, deforestation, and inappropriate agriculture. Preventing desertification is crucial for maintaining productive farmland.

dietary reference values: The nutrients that are essential for health, published as a list by the UK government. Understanding dietary reference values is important for developing balanced and nutritious diets for livestock. Farmers should work with veterinarians and nutritionists to ensure that animal diets meet these reference values and promote optimal health. Implementing proper dietary practices will enhance the productivity and welfare of livestock.

dew claw: A rudimentary fifth digit found on the heels of dogs, pigs, and cattle. Dew claws should be monitored for health issues such as injury or infection. Farmers should implement proper care and management practices to ensure the well-being of animals with dew claws. Understanding the anatomy and function of dew claws can aid in effective livestock management.

deer: A ruminant animal, the males of which have distinctive antlers. COMMENT: There are three wild species in the UK: the fallow deer (Dama dama), the roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and the red deer (Cervus elaphus), which is also raised commercially. Deer are hardy animals, and are well adapted to severe winters. They can suffer from tuberculosis, and the British government has introduced a compulsory slaughter scheme for animals suffering from the disease. According to the 2000 agricultural survey, the total number of farmed deer holdings in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland is 300, farming approximately 36,000 deer. They represent less than 0.6% of the farmed animals in the UK (excluding poultry). Farmers involved in deer farming should focus on proper health management, nutrition, and housing to ensure the productivity and welfare of their herds. Understanding the market for venison and other deer products can help farmers optimize their operations and profitability.

direct drilling: A form of minimal cultivation where the seed is sown directly into the field without previous cultivation. Several types of drill are used, with heavy discs for cutting narrow drills, or strong cultivator tines. Direct drilling can improve soil health, reduce erosion, and save time and labor. Farmers should select the appropriate type of drill for their needs and use it properly to achieve optimal crop establishment. Understanding the benefits and applications of direct drilling will aid in effective soil management and crop production.

Dorking: A breed of fowl, with dark and silver-grey plumage, or a silver-grey breed of bantam. Dorkings are valued for their meat and egg production. Proper care and management can maximize their productivity and health.

dibber: A hand tool for making holes in soil to plant small plants. Using a dibber can improve planting efficiency and accuracy. Farmers and gardeners should select the right type of dibber for their needs and use it properly to ensure successful planting. Understanding the benefits and applications of a dibber can aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

danthonia: A tufted pasture grass found in Australia and New Zealand. Danthonia is valued for its drought tolerance and suitability for grazing. Farmers can use danthonia in pasture management to improve forage availability, especially in arid regions. Rotational grazing and proper fertilization will help maintain healthy danthonia pastures, providing consistent feed for livestock.