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nest: 1. a construction built by birds and some fish for their eggs. 2. a construction made by some social insects such as ants and bees for the colony to live in. verb to build a nest. Encouraging the presence of beneficial birds and insects on farms by providing nesting sites can enhance pest control and pollination. Farmers can benefit from supporting these natural allies, reducing the need for chemical inputs and promoting ecological balance. Creating habitats for nesting also contributes to biodiversity and environmental health, supporting sustainable farming practices.

nectarine: a smooth-skinned variety of peach (Prunus persica nectarina). Nectarines are a valuable fruit crop that can diversify farm income and appeal to consumers seeking fresh, high-quality produce. Farmers can benefit from cultivating nectarines by selecting suitable varieties, optimizing orchard management practices, and implementing effective pest and disease control measures. High-quality nectarines can attract premium prices in the market, enhancing farm profitability. Additionally, nectarines can be processed into value-added products like jams and preserves, further increasing their economic potential.

natural: adjective referring to nature, or produced by nature not by humans. Natural materials and methods often align with sustainable farming practices, promoting environmental health and resource conservation. Farmers can benefit from using natural fertilizers, pest control methods, and materials, reducing reliance on synthetic inputs and minimizing environmental impact. This approach can improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and attract consumers who prioritize sustainably produced goods, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and profitable farming operation.

NFU: abbreviation for National Farmers’ Union. The National Farmers’ Union advocates for farmers’ rights and interests, providing a unified voice in policy discussions and negotiations. Membership in the NFU offers farmers access to valuable resources, including legal advice, market information, and training programs. By participating in the NFU, farmers can influence agricultural policies, stay informed about industry trends, and benefit from collective bargaining power, ultimately strengthening their farm businesses.

nutrient film technique: a system for growing crops in a plastic channel through which a thin film of water containing nutrients flows. Abbr NFT. The nutrient film technique (NFT) is a hydroponic growing system that delivers nutrients directly to plant roots through a continuous flow of nutrient-rich water. Farmers can benefit from using NFT to grow crops in controlled environments, reducing the need for soil and improving resource efficiency. This technique allows for precise control of nutrient delivery, leading to faster growth rates, higher yields, and improved crop quality. Implementing NFT systems supports sustainable and innovative farming practices.

North Ronaldsay: a rare breed of small sheep, which varies in color from white through grey, brown, and black, and also combinations of these colors. The tail is short, and most of the animals have horns. The North Ronaldsay breed is adapted to harsh coastal environments, making it resilient and low-maintenance. Farmers can benefit from raising this rare breed to enhance genetic diversity, support conservation efforts, and tap into niche markets for heritage wool and meat. Understanding the specific care requirements of North Ronaldsay sheep supports successful breeding and production, contributing to sustainable livestock farming.

Normandy: a breed of cattle from north-west France that have a white coat with red-brown patches. The animals are reared for meat and for milk, from which Camembert cheese is made. The Normandy breed is valued for its dual-purpose capabilities, providing both high-quality milk and meat. Farmers can benefit from raising Normandy cattle to diversify their livestock operations and produce premium products like Camembert cheese. Understanding the breed’s characteristics and management needs helps optimize production, improve animal welfare, and enhance farm profitability.

nitrification inhibitor: a chemical product used to slow down the release of nitrate in organic manure. Nitrification inhibitors help reduce nitrogen losses from leaching and volatilization, improving nitrogen use efficiency in crops. Farmers can benefit from using nitrification inhibitors to enhance fertilizer performance, reduce environmental pollution, and increase crop productivity. Understanding the appropriate use of these products supports sustainable nitrogen management and better farm profitability.

non-centrifugal sugar: a dark semi-solid sugar made by boiling the juices obtained from crushed sugar cane. India is the principal producer. Non-centrifugal sugar, also known as panela or jaggery, offers farmers an alternative value-added product. By producing non-centrifugal sugar, farmers can diversify their income streams, tap into niche markets, and add value to their sugar cane crops. Understanding the production process and market demand for non-centrifugal sugar can help farmers capitalize on this opportunity, enhancing farm profitability and sustainability.

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.