M

maize: a tall cereal crop grown in warm climates, that carries its grains on a large solid core (cob) of which there are only one or two per plant. Maize is grown for making silage, or for harvesting as ripened grain; some is grazed or cut as a forage crop, while a small proportion is sold for human consumption as ‘corn on the cob’. Maize needs rich deep well-drained soils and ideally a frost-free growing season with a lot of sunshine before harvest. Understanding the cultivation requirements and uses of maize can help farmers maximize their crop yield and profitability.

monoploid: a cell that has only one set of chromosomes. Compare diploid, polyploid. Understanding the characteristics and applications of monoploid cells can help farmers and researchers improve breeding programs and genetic studies.

manager: a person who is in charge of an organisation or part of one. Effective managers can help optimize farm operations and improve productivity and profitability.

min-till: same as minimum tillage. Understanding min-till can help farmers optimize their soil and crop management practices, ensuring better productivity and sustainability.

Multistage: multistage a system in which there are several stages. Understanding multistage systems can help farmers optimize their operations and improve productivity and sustainability.

mariculture: the breeding and keeping of sea fish or shellfish for food in seawater enclosures. Mariculture can provide farmers with a valuable source of income, particularly in coastal regions, contributing to economic diversification and sustainability.

monosomy: a chromosomal defect in which one chromosome of a pair is missing. Understanding and managing monosomy can help farmers improve breeding programs and genetic studies.

market gardener: a person who runs a market garden. Market gardeners play a crucial role in supplying fresh produce to urban areas, contributing to local food security and sustainable agriculture.

maximum residue level: the maximum amount of a pesticide that can remain in crops or foodstuffs under European Union regulations. Abbr MRL. Understanding and adhering to maximum residue levels can help farmers ensure the safety and marketability of their produce.

marram grass: a type of grass planted on sand dunes to prevent them being spread by the wind. Latin name: Ammophila arenaria. Understanding the role of marram grass in soil stabilization can help farmers manage erosion and protect their land.