D

dogdaisy: Also known as mayweed, a common weed that can be found in fields and pastures. While not harmful, it can be a nuisance to farmers and gardeners. Regular weeding and use of herbicides can help manage dogdaisy infestations.

digestible organic matter: An organic substance which can be processed to produce biogas, e.g., manure. Abbr DOM. Managing digestible organic matter is important for nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should implement composting and anaerobic digestion practices to process organic matter and produce valuable biogas and compost. Understanding the benefits and processes of digestible organic matter will aid in effective waste management and soil fertility improvement.

defoliant: A type of herbicide which makes the leaves fall off plants. Defoliants can be used to manage weeds or prepare crops for harvest. Farmers should use defoliants carefully, following label instructions and safety guidelines. Understanding the impact of defoliants on crops and the environment will help in selecting the right product and application method. Monitoring weather conditions and timing applications can enhance the effectiveness of defoliants.

dehiscent: Referring to seed pods, fruit, or capsules which burst open to allow the seeds or spores to scatter. Compare indehiscent. Farmers should manage dehiscent crops by monitoring their growth stages and implementing timely harvesting practices. Understanding the characteristics of dehiscent plants can help in planning cultivation and harvesting schedules to optimize seed collection and minimize losses.

dosing gun: A device used to give an animal medicine in the form of pellets. The pellet is forced into the back of the animal’s throat. Dosing guns are essential tools in livestock management, allowing for quick and accurate delivery of medications, vaccinations, or supplements to animals.

domestication: The action of domesticating wild animals or plants. This process has transformed agriculture by enabling the cultivation of crops and breeding of animals that provide food, labor, and other resources necessary for human societies.

durum: A type of wheat grown in southern Europe and the USA and used in making semolina for processing into pasta. Latin name: Triticum durum. Durum wheat is prized for its high protein content and strong gluten, essential for pasta production.

deflocculation: A state in which clay particles repel each other instead of sticking together. Deflocculation may occur when clays are worked in a wet condition or if the soil becomes saline. Managing soil structure and salinity is crucial for preventing deflocculation. Farmers should implement practices like gypsum application, proper irrigation management, and organic matter addition to maintain soil structure and fertility. Understanding soil properties can help farmers choose appropriate management strategies.

dill: A common aromatic herb (Anethum graveolens) used in cooking and in medicine. Growing dill can provide a valuable income stream for farmers and enhance culinary and medicinal offerings. Farmers should focus on proper soil preparation, planting, and harvesting techniques to cultivate high-quality dill. Understanding the market demands and applications of dill will aid in effective production and marketing strategies.

deer farming: The commercial farming of deer to be sold as venison. Deer farming can be a profitable venture for farmers. Proper management of deer, including nutrition, health care, and breeding, is essential for producing high-quality venison. Farmers should also focus on marketing strategies to promote venison as a premium product and explore value-added opportunities such as processed meat products.