N

nodule: a small lump found on the roots of leguminous plants such as peas which contains bacteria that can convert nitrogen from the air into nitrogen compounds. Nodules are essential for nitrogen fixation, enriching the soil with natural nitrogen and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Farmers can benefit from understanding the role of nodules in leguminous plants and incorporating these plants into their crop rotations. This practice enhances soil fertility, supports sustainable farming, and reduces input costs. Promoting nitrogen fixation through nodules ensures long-term soil health and farm productivity.

nitrogen fertiliser: a fertilizer containing mainly nitrogen, e.g., ammonium nitrate. Nitrogen fertilizers are essential for providing crops with the nitrogen needed for growth and development. Farmers can benefit from understanding the different types of nitrogen fertilizers and their application methods to optimize nutrient availability. Proper use of nitrogen fertilizers enhances crop productivity, improves soil fertility, and supports sustainable farming practices. Balancing nitrogen application with crop needs and environmental considerations helps maximize yields and minimize environmental impact.

nutrient budget: a summary of the inputs and outputs of nutrients on a farm, e.g., the amount of nitrogen added to the soil from organic manure and from fertilizers, and the amount taken away in the crops harvested. A nutrient budget helps farmers manage soil fertility and optimize crop production by balancing nutrient inputs and outputs. By creating and monitoring a nutrient budget, farmers can ensure efficient nutrient use, reduce waste, and prevent environmental pollution. Understanding nutrient budgets supports informed decision-making in fertilization and soil management, leading to better yields and sustainable farming practices.

nest box: an open-fronted box in which a hen lays eggs. The box may be a single unit or part of a series of boxes. Providing nest boxes for laying hens can improve egg production and quality by offering a clean, safe, and comfortable environment for hens to lay their eggs. Farmers can benefit from well-designed nest boxes that reduce egg breakage and contamination, leading to higher yields and better marketability. Proper nest box management also enhances animal welfare and overall farm productivity.

NIAB: abbreviation for National Institute of Agricultural Botany. The National Institute of Agricultural Botany plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and performance of crop varieties. Farmers benefit from NIAB’s rigorous testing by gaining access to high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-adapted crop varieties. Utilizing NIAB-approved seeds can lead to improved crop performance, higher productivity, and greater resilience to environmental stresses, contributing to sustainable farming practices.

non-organic: adjective referring to crops that are not produced according to guidelines restricting the use of fertilizers and other practices. Understanding the differences between organic and non-organic farming helps farmers make informed decisions about their production methods. While non-organic farming allows the use of synthetic inputs, it can offer higher yields and more consistent quality. Farmers can benefit from choosing the approach that best suits their market demands, resource availability, and sustainability goals. Balancing non-organic and organic practices can optimize farm productivity and environmental impact.

neigh: a sound made by a horse. verb (of a horse) to make the characteristic sound of a horse. Compare bleat, grunt, low. Understanding the vocalizations of farm animals, such as a horse’s neigh, can help farmers monitor animal behavior and well-being. Recognizing these sounds aids in detecting signs of distress, illness, or changes in the environment that may require attention. Effective communication with and observation of animals can improve animal welfare, ensure timely interventions, and enhance overall farm management and productivity.

nature: 1. the characteristics that make someone or something what they are. 2. all living organisms and the environments in which they live. Living in harmony with nature means adopting practices that support ecological balance and sustainability. Farmers can benefit from understanding natural processes and working with them rather than against them. This can lead to healthier crops and livestock, reduced input costs, and a more resilient farming system. Embracing nature-based solutions can also enhance the farm’s environmental stewardship and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

nitrogen oxide: an oxide formed when nitrogen is oxidized, e.g., nitric oxide or nitrogen dioxide. Formula: NOx. Managing nitrogen oxide emissions is important for reducing air pollution and its associated health and environmental impacts. Farmers can benefit from adopting practices that minimize NOx emissions, such as optimizing fertilizer application, using nitrification inhibitors, and implementing conservation tillage. Reducing nitrogen oxide emissions supports environmental sustainability and enhances the farm’s reputation for responsible management.

nematode disease: a disease of the alimentary tract and lungs, caused by nematodes. Infection is transmitted from one group of animals to another by means of infective larvae in herbage. Managing nematode diseases in livestock is essential for maintaining animal health and farm productivity. Farmers can benefit from implementing preventive measures such as proper grazing management, regular deworming, and maintaining good hygiene practices. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the spread of infection and minimize economic losses. Ensuring healthy livestock leads to better growth rates and higher farm profitability.