D

duramen: Same as heartwood, the dense inner part of a tree trunk, yielding the hardest timber. Understanding the properties of duramen is important for wood production and selection of timber for various uses.

downland: An area of grassy treeless hills. Downland provides important grazing areas for livestock and can be managed for conservation and recreational purposes.

dredge corn: A mixture of cereals grown together and used for livestock feeding. The commonest type is a mixture of barley and oats, and sometimes cereals and pulses are mixed. Dredge corn provides a balanced diet for livestock and can improve feed efficiency.

doddle: An easy task. Understanding the concept of a doddle can provide valuable insights into simplifying farm tasks and operations. Farmers should identify and implement strategies to make tasks easier and more efficient. Understanding the benefits of simplifying tasks will aid in improving productivity and reducing labor costs.

decortication: The process of removing husks from seeds. Decortication is important for processing seeds like cotton and sunflower. Farmers and processors should use appropriate machinery and techniques to ensure efficient decortication, improving the quality and marketability of the seeds. Proper maintenance of decortication equipment will also enhance its longevity and performance.

dry rot: A fungal disease causing rot in wood, potatoes, or fruit. Managing dry rot involves removing affected materials and improving ventilation and moisture control to prevent further spread.

draught control system: A system of preventing damage to an implement such as a harrow as it is being pulled through the soil. When the draught reaches a set level, the implement is automatically raised out of the soil. This system helps protect equipment and improve efficiency.

day-old chick: A chick up to 24 hours old, sent from a breeder or hatchery to a buyer. Proper care and management of day-old chicks are crucial for poultry farmers. Ensuring a warm, clean environment and providing appropriate feed and water will help chicks grow healthy and strong. Monitoring their health and implementing biosecurity measures will reduce the risk of disease and mortality.

dispersion: The scattering of seeds over a wide area. Understanding seed dispersion is important for managing plant populations and optimizing crop yields. Farmers should implement proper planting and management practices to achieve desired dispersion patterns. Understanding the benefits and applications of dispersion will aid in effective crop establishment and growth.

drawbar power: The power available to pull an implement, as opposed to the brake horsepower of a tractor. Under field conditions, not all brake horsepower will be available to pull implements, because some of it is needed to make the tractor itself move forwards and overcome the resistance of the bearings and the soil on the wheels. Understanding drawbar power helps farmers select the right equipment for their tractors.