D

digest: To break down food and convert it into elements which can be absorbed by the body. To use bacteria to process waste, especially organic waste such as manure, in order to produce biogas. 55% of UK sewage sludge is digested. Wastes from food processing plants can be anaerobically digested. Digesting organic matter is essential for nutrient cycling and soil health. Farmers should implement composting and anaerobic digestion practices to process waste and produce valuable biogas and compost. Understanding the benefits and processes of digestion will aid in effective waste management and soil fertility improvement.

dispose: To get rid of something such as waste. Proper disposal practices are important for maintaining farm hygiene and preventing pollution. Farmers should implement appropriate waste management techniques to dispose of waste safely and effectively. Understanding the benefits and applications of proper disposal will aid in maintaining a healthy and productive farm environment.

dog: A domesticated carnivorous mammal (Canis lupus familiaris) that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of smell, non-retractable claws, and a barking, howling, or whining voice. Dogs can serve various roles on a farm, including herding livestock, guarding property, and providing companionship. Proper training and care are essential for farm dogs to ensure they are healthy and effective in their roles.

dyke: A long wall of earth built to keep water out or a ditch for drainage. Dyke pond farming is a system of organic agriculture combining crop growing on the dykes that surround ponds in which fish are bred. It is common in China. Proper management of dykes is essential for controlling water levels and preventing flooding.

digging stick: One of the earliest agricultural implements, still used in areas where shifting cultivation is practiced. The stick has a sharpened end, sometimes with a metal tip, and is used to dig holes to plant crops. Using a digging stick can be an effective method for small-scale farming and shifting cultivation. Farmers should understand the proper techniques for using a digging stick to achieve successful crop establishment. Implementing traditional and sustainable farming practices can enhance productivity and resilience.

drag harrow: A heavy type of harrow used in the preparation of seedbeds. Drag harrows help break up soil clumps and create a smooth surface for planting.

double cropping: A type of multi-cropping, taking more than one crop off a piece of land in one year. Double cropping can increase farm productivity and profitability by maximizing the use of land resources. Farmers must plan carefully to ensure soil fertility and moisture levels are maintained for multiple crops.

dwarf bean: A term used for French or kidney beans, which make a bushy plant as opposed to runner beans which climb. Dwarf beans are popular in home gardens and commercial agriculture for their ease of cultivation and versatility in cooking.

domestic animal: An animal such as a dog or cat which lives with human beings as a pet or an animal such as a pig or goat which is kept by human beings for food or other uses. Farmers must ensure that domestic animals are well-fed, sheltered, and receive regular veterinary care.

drill coulter: A coulter that makes a furrow for sowing seed. Drill coulters are essential for precision planting, helping to create uniform seed rows and improve crop establishment.