P

piker piker piker: A person who hunts or catches pike. Employing skilled pikers ensures efficient and high-quality fish harvests, improving farm productivity.

point of lay: A term referring to pullets that are approaching the time when they will lay their first eggs. Helpful content: Managing pullets at the point of lay is essential for maximizing egg production. Providing optimal nutrition and housing conditions during this stage can lead to higher egg yields and better flock health.

protein efficiency ratio: A measure of the nutritional value of proteins carried out on young growing animals. The protein efficiency ratio is defined as the gain in weight per gram of protein eaten. Abbr PER. Helpful content: Using protein efficiency ratios helps farmers evaluate and improve feed formulations. This ensures that animals receive adequate nutrition for optimal growth and production.

pilot plot pilot plot pilot plot: A small experimental plot used to test new crops or farming techniques. Using pilot plots for research and development improves farming practices and productivity.

potting compost: A mixture usually of soil and fibrous matter used to fill containers in which plants are grown. Helpful content: Using high-quality potting compost provides essential nutrients and support for plant growth. Farmers can improve seedling health and transplant success by selecting appropriate compost mixtures.

proteolytic: Referring to proteolysis. Helpful content: Knowledge of proteolytic processes helps farmers manage livestock diets effectively. Ensuring efficient protein digestion can improve feed efficiency and animal performance.

production ration: The quantity of food needed to make a farm animal produce meat, milk, or eggs, which is always more than the basic maintenance ration. Helpful content: Calculating accurate production rations ensures that livestock receive adequate nutrition for optimal growth and productivity. This can lead to higher yields and improved animal health.

parent plant: A plant from which others are produced. Selecting high-quality parent plants ensures better yields and crop quality.

powdery mildew: A fungal disease (Erysiphe graminis) affecting cereals and grasses. Another form also affects sugar beet and brassicas. Helpful content: Managing powdery mildew involves using resistant varieties, proper spacing, and fungicide applications. Early detection and treatment can prevent significant crop losses and maintain healthy plants.

peach-leaf curl: A fungal disease which affects peaches, where the leaves swell and become red. Managing peach-leaf curl is essential for maintaining healthy peach orchards and ensuring high-quality fruit production.