D

dry feeding: The feeding of meal to animals without the addition of water. This may cause problems with pigs and poultry. Ensuring proper hydration and balanced nutrition is essential for the health and productivity of livestock.

dead stock: A comprehensive term for all implements, tools, appliances, and machines used on a farm. It can also include seed, fertilizer, and feeding stuffs. Managing dead stock effectively involves regular maintenance, proper storage, and inventory management. Farmers should keep detailed records of their equipment and supplies to ensure they are in good working condition and available when needed. This practice can help reduce downtime and improve farm efficiency.

drum: The cylinder of a combine harvester that rotates and has rasp-like beater bars that thresh the grain. The drum is a critical component of the combine harvester, ensuring efficient separation of grain from the stalks.

dried grass: Grass that has been artificially dried and is used as an animal feed of high nutritional value. Dried grass provides essential nutrients to livestock, especially during periods when fresh forage is not available.

dichotomous branching: A pattern of plant growth that develops when a growing point forks into two points that later divide into two. Understanding dichotomous branching is important for managing plant growth and development. Farmers should use proper pruning and training techniques to optimize branching patterns and improve crop yields. Knowledge of plant growth patterns can aid in effective cultivation and management practices.

divide: To separate or allocate something into parts or sections. Managing the division of land, resources, or tasks is important for effective farm operations. Farmers should use appropriate planning and management techniques for efficient division. Understanding the benefits and applications of proper division will aid in effective farm management and productivity.

dysentery: An infection and inflammation of the colon causing bleeding and diarrhea. Managing dysentery involves ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene to prevent the spread of infection among livestock and humans.

deciduous: Referring to trees that shed all their leaves in one season. Beech, oak, and other deciduous trees. Deciduous trees can be beneficial in agroforestry systems, providing seasonal shade and organic matter. Farmers can integrate deciduous trees into their land management plans to improve biodiversity, soil health, and microclimate regulation. Understanding the growth patterns and benefits of deciduous trees can help optimize their use in farming systems.

dunes: An area of sand blown by the wind into small hills and ridges, which may have plants growing on them. Managing dunes involves preventing soil erosion and promoting the growth of vegetation to stabilize the sand.

Dutch elm disease: A fungal disease that kills elm trees, caused by Ceratocystis ulmi and spread by a bark beetle. Managing Dutch elm disease involves monitoring tree health, removing infected trees, and preventing the spread of the bark beetle.