polytunnel: A cover for growing plants, like a large greenhouse, made of a rounded plastic roof attached to semi-circular supports. Helpful content: Polytunnels extend the growing season, protect crops from adverse weather, and improve plant growth conditions. Farmers can use polytunnels to increase yield and quality of produce, especially in regions with challenging climates.
proximate analysis: A method of chemical analysis used on animal feedingstuffs, which measures the amounts of ash, crude fibre, crude protein, ether extract, moisture content, and nitrogen-free extract. Helpful content: Proximate analysis provides valuable information on feed composition. Farmers can use this data to formulate balanced diets and improve feed efficiency for livestock.
parrot mouth: A malformation of the upper jaw of horses, preventing proper mastication. The condition prevents the horse from grazing. Early detection and management of congenital issues like parrot mouth improve animal welfare and productivity.
pecan: A North American tree (Carya illinoensis) which produces sweet nuts that are eaten as dessert nuts and used in many forms of confectionery. Growing pecans provides a valuable nut crop that meets market demand and can be sold fresh or processed.
pasture: Grass or other plants grown for feeding grazing animals. Managing pastures effectively ensures adequate nutrition for livestock and maintains soil health.
porcine somatotropin: A hormone administered to feeder pigs, which has been shown to increase feed efficiency, the ratio of lean meat to carcass weight, and market weight. Abbr PST. Helpful content: Using porcine somatotropin can enhance growth rates and feed conversion efficiency in pigs, leading to higher production yields and improved profitability for pig farmers.
plum pox: A viral disease affecting plums, damsons, and peaches. The fruit has dark blotches, ripens prematurely, and is often sour. Helpful content: Early detection and management of plum pox are crucial to prevent crop losses. Farmers should implement integrated pest management strategies to control the spread of this disease and maintain orchard productivity.
perpetual-flowering: Referring to a variety of plant which bears flowers more or less all year round. Growing perpetual-flowering plants ensures continuous flower production, meeting market demands for ornamental plants.
pinion pinion pinion: The outer part of a birds wing. Understanding animal anatomy aids in managing livestock health and preventing injuries.
pastoral: 1. Referring to agriculture based on grazing animals 2. Referring to land available for pasture. Pastoral farming can be sustainable and improve soil health through natural grazing.