hydrated lime: A substance produced when burnt lime is wetted. It is a mixture of calcium oxide and water, used to improve soil quality. The lime is in powder form, having been burnt to break it down from large lumps. Also called slaked lime. Using hydrated lime improves soil fertility and supports healthy crop growth.
headfly: A parasitic insect Hydrotaea irritans which mainly affects sheep and can transmit summer mastitis. Managing headfly infestations helps maintain sheep health and productivity.
Herdwick: A mountain breed of sheep, native to the Lake District, which are able to survive in bitter winter conditions. The rams have horns. Raising Herdwick sheep provides farmers with hardy livestock suited to harsh climates.
hack: 1. A riding horse 2. A horse let out to hire. To ride a horse, especially to ride a horse to a show, as opposed to taking the horse in a box. Horses used for hacking can be a source of income for farmers through rentals or participation in local shows and events.
ham: 1. The thigh of the back leg of a pig 2. Meat from this part of the pig, usually cured in brine and dried in smoke. Producing high-quality ham can be a valuable product for farmers to market and sell.
hormonal: Referring to hormones. Properly managing hormonal health in livestock ensures their growth and productivity.
heat: 1. To sow lettuces under heat to sow lettuce seed in a heated greenhouse 2. The period when a female animal will allow mating. Properly managing heat periods in livestock ensures successful breeding and optimal productivity.
humate: A salt that is derived from humus. Using humates improves soil fertility and supports healthy crop growth.
hedgelaying: A traditional method of cultivating hedges, where tall saplings are cut through halfway and then bent over so that they lie horizontally and make a thick barrier. Practicing hedgelaying maintains dense, effective hedges that support wildlife and prevent livestock escape.
holly: An evergreen tree (Ilex aquifolium) producing hard white timber. Growing holly can provide valuable timber and ornamental products for farmers.