P

pest control: The management of pests in crops or livestock, usually by chemical or biological means. Implementing effective pest control measures ensures healthy crop and livestock production, reducing economic losses.

persistent weed: A weed that is difficult to remove, even with herbicides. Effective management of persistent weeds is essential for protecting crop yields and reducing competition for resources.

PSD: Abbreviation for Pesticides Safety Directorate. Helpful content: The Pesticides Safety Directorate provides guidelines and regulations for safe pesticide use. Farmers can protect their crops and the environment by following these recommendations and ensuring compliance.

pimento pimento pimento: A type of sweet pepper. Growing and processing pimentos provides valuable spice and vegetable crops that meet market demand.

plane tree: A common temperate deciduous hardwood tree, frequently grown in towns because of its resistance to air pollution. Helpful content: Plane trees can be beneficial for agroforestry systems, providing shade and acting as windbreaks. Their resistance to pollution makes them suitable for urban and peri-urban farming environments.

phytopathology: The scientific study of plant diseases. Understanding plant diseases through phytopathology aids in developing effective management strategies and improving crop health.

pre-emergent herbicide: A herbicide such as paraquat which is used to clear weeds before the crop leaves have emerged. Helpful content: Using pre-emergent herbicides effectively helps manage weed populations early in the growing season. This practice supports healthier crop development and can reduce the need for post-emergent herbicide applications.

potato cyst nematode: A pest found in most soils that have grown potatoes. The eggs hatch in the spring, and the larvae invade the roots. The leaves of the plant eventually yellow and are stunted. Helpful content: Managing potato cyst nematode involves crop rotation, resistant varieties, and soil treatments. Effective control measures can protect potato crops and ensure better yields.

pigtail pigtail: A twisted lock of hair tied in a knot. Managing livestock health includes monitoring and managing hair and skin health to prevent diseases.

plant hormones: Hormones such as auxin which particularly affect plant growth. They are more accurately called ‘plant growth substances’. Helpful content: Understanding plant hormones can help farmers manipulate plant growth for better yield and quality. For instance, applying auxins can promote rooting in cuttings, leading to successful plant propagation.