W

White Park: A rare breed of cattle, white in colour with either black or red muzzle, eyelids, ears, and feet. It is one of the most ancient breeds of British cattle. Preserving rare breeds like White Park cattle can maintain genetic diversity and cultural heritage in livestock farming.

withstand: Withstand means to resist or not be affected by something. Choosing crops and livestock that can withstand adverse conditions is essential for farmers to ensure farm productivity and sustainability.

wet pluck: The process of removing the feathers when the carcass is wet. This is easier than dry plucking but may harm the skin. Using wet pluck methods can improve processing efficiency and product quality.

wheat bulb fly: A fly whose larvae feed on the roots of wheat. The central shoot turns yellow and dies. Managing wheat bulb fly can prevent crop losses and improve wheat yields.

watercourse: A stream, river, canal, or other flow of water. Maintaining watercourses can improve water management and environmental health on the farm.

wych elm: Wych elm is a type of elm tree. Understanding different tree species helps farmers manage woodlands and tree planting projects on their land.

white rot: A fungal disease of onions and leeks. The leaves turn yellow and a white mass appears on the bulb. Managing white rot can prevent crop losses and improve yields.

wool fat: Wool fat, or lanolin, is a protective fat covering sheep’s wool. Farmers can harvest lanolin for use in cosmetics and skin care products, adding value to sheep farming.

winter wash: Winter wash is an egg-killing spray applied to fruit trees in winter. Using winter wash helps farmers control pests and improve the health and productivity of their orchards.

Wensleydale: A longwool breed of sheep. The animals are large and polled, and the skin of the face, legs, and ears is blue. Wensleydales are now rare, but are still found in Yorkshire. Raising rare breeds like Wensleydale sheep can maintain genetic diversity and provide high-quality wool and meat.