We are pleased to provide you with comprehensive information about agriculture and farming practices. As a leading source of information for those interested in agriculture, we strive to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information available. Here in this Agriculture dictionary , we will discuss various agricultural terms and practices, and provide detailed information that can help you make informed decisions about your farming activities.

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A
Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Farming
- Cultivation
- Husbandry
- Agronomy
The science, art, and business of cultivating the soil, producing crops, and raising livestock.
Agroforestry
Synonyms:
- Alley cropping
- Forest farming
- Agrosilvopastoralism
The integration of trees and shrubs into farming systems to create environmental, economic, and social benefits.
Agronomy
Synonyms:
- Crop science
- Soil science
- Plant science
The branch of agriculture that deals with the study of crops and their cultivation.
Agribusiness
Synonyms:
- Farming industry
- Agricultural enterprise
- Agricultural sector
The business of agricultural production, processing, and distribution.
Alfalfa
Synonyms:
- Lucerne
- Medicago sativa
A leguminous plant with clover-like leaves and bluish-purple flowers, grown as a forage crop.
Aquaculture
Synonyms:
- Fish farming
- Mariculture
- Aquafarming
The farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, shellfish, and seaweed.
Animal Husbandry
Synonyms:
- Animal farming
- Livestock management
- Animal rearing
The care, breeding, and management of domestic animals, especially farm animals.
Arable Land
Synonyms:
- Cultivable land
- Farmable land
- Tillable land
Land suitable for growing crops.
Annual
Synonyms:
- Yearly
- Once-a-year
- Annualized
Referring to a plant that completes its life cycle within one growing season.
Agrochemicals
Synonyms:
- Agricultural chemicals
- Agro-pesticides
Chemicals used in agriculture, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
Anaerobic Digestion
Synonyms:
- AD
- Biogas production
The breakdown of organic material by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen, resulting in biogas and nutrient-rich digestate.
Agricultural Extension
Synonyms:
- Rural extension
- Agricultural outreach
The transfer of knowledge and technology from researchers to farmers, aimed at improving agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Aeration
Synonyms:
- Soil aeration
- Air exchange
The process of introducing air into soil to improve soil structure and promote plant growth.
Agglomeration
Synonyms:
- Granulation
- Pelletization
The process of combining small particles into larger ones, often used in the production of fertilizers and animal feeds.
Allelopathy
Synonyms:
- Plant interference
- Chemical warfare
The ability of plants to release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants.
Anhydrous
Synonyms:
- Waterless
- Dehydrated
Referring to a substance that is without water, often used to describe fertilizers.
Antibiotic resistance
Synonyms:
- Drug resistance
- Antimicrobial resistance
The ability of bacteria to resist the effects of antibiotics, often caused by overuse or misuse of these drugs in agriculture and medicine.
Apples
Synonyms:
- Malus
- Pomaceous fruit
A fruit of the apple tree, widely grown and consumed as food.
Artificial insemination
Synonyms:
- AI
- Assisted reproduction
The process of introducing semen into the reproductive tract of a female animal using a medical instrument, rather than natural mating.
Alfisol
Synonyms:
- Alfisols
- Brown earths
A soil type found in tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by high fertility and good water-holding capacity.
Ammonia
A colorless gas with a pungent odor, used in many industrial and household applications, and as a fertilizer.
Agrostology
Synonyms:
- Graminology
- Poaceae studies
The scientific study of grasses.
Agrotechnology
Synonyms:
- Agricultural technology
- Agri-tech
The application of technology to agricultural production, such as the use of drones and precision agriculture.
Agriculture zoning
Synonyms:
- Land-use planning
- Agricultural zoning regulations
The designation of areas for specific agricultural uses, such as farming, grazing, or forestry.
Agroecology
Synonyms:
- Ecological agriculture
- Sustainable agriculture
The study of ecological processes in agriculture, emphasizing the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental systems.
Agrometeorology
Synonyms:
- Agricultural meteorology
- Climate and agriculture
The study of the impact of weather and climate on agricultural production.
Agroterrorism
Synonyms:
- Agricultural bioterrorism
- Food terrorism
The intentional use of biological agents, such as pathogens or toxins, to harm agricultural systems and food supplies.
Agrarian
Synonyms:
- Farming
- Country
- Rural
Relating to agriculture, rural life, or land ownership.
Agrostemma
Synonyms:
- Corncockle
- Agrostemma githago
A genus of annual and perennial plants in the carnation family, commonly known as corncockles.
Agroforesterie
Synonyms:
- Agroforestery
- Agroforestería
French term for agroforestry.
Agro-industry
Synonyms:
- Agricultural industry
- Agroprocessing
The industry that processes and transforms agricultural products into value-added goods, such as food, textiles, and biofuels.
Agritourism
Synonyms:
- Farm tourism
- Agro-tourism
The practice of attracting tourists to rural areas for farm-related activities, such as picking fruit, animal husbandry, and wine tasting.
Agroecosystem
Synonyms:
- Agricultural ecosystem
- Farming system
A system of plants, animals, and microorganisms in an agricultural environment, and the interactions between them.
Agrology
Synonyms:
- Soil science
- Pedology
The study of soils in relation to agriculture, including their properties, classification, and management.
Agroprocessing
Synonyms:
- Agricultural processing
- Agro-industrialization
The processing of agricultural products into value-added goods, such as food, fuel, and fiber.
Agrochemical resistance
Synonyms:
- Pesticide resistance
- Herbicide resistance
The ability of pests and weeds to resist the effects of agrochemicals, often caused by overuse or misuse of these products.
Agroecosystem services
Synonyms:
- Ecosystem services
- Agri-environmental services
The benefits provided by agroecosystems to human society, such as food production, water conservation, and biodiversity conservation.
Agroecological farming
Synonyms:
- Ecological farming
- Agroecology
A farming system that emphasizes the integration of ecological principles into agricultural production, to enhance sustainability and resilience.
Agronomic practices
Synonyms:
- Farming practices
- Agricultural techniques
The techniques and methods used in crop production, such as fertilization, irrigation, and pest control.
Agroforestry systems
Synonyms:
- Agroforestry models
- Tree-based farming systems
The various combinations of trees and crops or livestock, used in agroforestry to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Agro-processing industry
Synonyms:
- Agricultural processing industry
- Agro-industrial sector
- Food processing industry
- Agro-industry
The industry that processes and transforms agricultural products into value-added goods, such as food, fuel, and fiber.
Agroeccosystem management
Synonyms:
- Agroecological management
- Sustainable agriculture management
The application of ecological principles and techniques to manage agroecosystems for sustainability and resilience.
Agribusiness
Synonyms:
- Agricultural business
- Agroindustry
The business of agricultural production, including farming, processing, and marketing.
Agroecological design
Synonyms:
- Ecological design
- Sustainable agriculture design
The application of ecological design principles to agricultural systems, to optimize resource use, enhance productivity, and promote biodiversity.
Agroforestry
Synonyms:
- Tree-based agriculture
- Agro-silvopastoral systems
The intentional integration of trees and crops or livestock in agricultural landscapes, to enhance productivity, environmental conservation, and social benefits.
Agricultural extension
Synonyms:
- Rural extension
- Agricultural advisory services
The transfer of agricultural knowledge and technologies to farmers, through training, education, and demonstration.
Agroecological restoration
Synonyms:
- Ecological restoration
- Sustainable agriculture restoration
The process of restoring degraded agricultural landscapes using ecological principles and techniques, to enhance biodiversity, soil fertility, and productivity.
Agroecosystem productivity
Synonyms:
- Agricultural productivity
- Sustainable production
The capacity of agroecosystems to produce food, fiber, fuel, and other products, while maintaining ecological integrity and social benefits.
Agroecological transition
Synonyms:
- Ecological transition
- Sustainable agriculture transition
The process of shifting from conventional agricultural practices to agroecological practices, to enhance sustainability and resilience.
Agroecosystem resilience
Synonyms:
- Agricultural resilience
- Sustainable resilience
The capacity of agroecosystems to withstand and recover from disturbances, such as droughts, floods, pests, and diseases, while maintaining productivity and biodiversity.
B
Biodiversity
Synonyms:
- Biological diversity
- Ecological diversity
- Species diversity
The variety of living organisms in a particular ecosystem.
Biofuel
Synonyms:
- Biomass fuel
- Green fuel
- Renewable fuel
A fuel made from renewable biological resources, such as crops or waste material.
Biotechnology
Synonyms:
- Biotech
- Genetic engineering
- Genetic modification
The use of living organisms or biological processes to develop or improve agricultural products and practices.
Boll weevil
Synonyms:
- Anthonomus grandis
- Cotton boll weevil
A pest that feeds on cotton bolls and can cause significant damage to cotton crops.
Bonsai
Synonyms:
- Tree in a pot
- Dwarfed tree
- Miniature tree
A Japanese art form that involves growing and training small trees in containers.
Broadacre farming
Synonyms:
- Large-scale farming
- Industrial farming
- Commercial farming
A type of farming that involves cultivating large areas of land for crops or livestock.
Brucellosis
Synonyms:
- Bang’s disease
- Contagious abortion
- Malta fever
An infectious bacterial disease that affects cattle and other livestock, as well as humans.
Bryophyte
Synonyms:
- Non-flowering plant
- Primitive plant
- Moss-like plant
A type of non-vascular plant that includes mosses, liverworts, and hornworts.
Bt cotton
Synonyms:
- Bacillus thuringiensis cotton
- Insect-resistant cotton
A genetically modified variety of cotton that produces a toxin to protect against insect pests.
Bumblebee
Synonyms:
- Bombus
- Native bee
- Pollinator
A large, hairy bee that plays an important role in pollinating crops and other plants.
Bushel
Synonyms:
- Peck
- Sack
- Basket
A unit of measurement for agricultural commodities, usually referring to grain or produce.
Bycatch
Synonyms:
- Discards
- Non-target species
- Unintended catch
Marine animals caught unintentionally while fishing for a different species.
Biodynamic Farming
Synonyms:
- Biodynamic agriculture
- Biodynamic gardening
- Spiritual farming
A type of farming that emphasizes holistic approaches to soil, plant, and animal health.
Berseem Clover
Synonyms:
- Egyptian clover
- Indian clover
- Sweet clover
A type of annual legume used for forage and as a cover crop.
Baling
Synonyms:
- Haymaking
- Straw baling
- Forage packing
The process of compressing hay or straw into tight, compacted bundles for storage or transport.
Biostimulant
Synonyms:
- Plant growth enhancer
- Bioenhancer
- Biogenic elicitor
A substance that enhances plant growth and health through non-nutrient mechanisms.
Blackleg
Synonyms:
- Soft rot
- Bacterial wilt
- Stem rot
A bacterial disease that affects cruciferous plants such as cabbage and can cause significant crop loss.
Bollworm
Synonyms:
- Helicoverpa armigera
- Corn earworm
- Sorghum headworm
A type of moth larva that feeds on cotton bolls and can cause significant damage to cotton crops.
Brix
Synonyms:
- Sugar content
- Sweetness level
- Sugar concentration
A measure of the sugar content of a plant or fruit, often used to determine ripeness or quality.
Broadcast Seeding
Synonyms:
- Over-seeding
- Surface sowing
- Scatter sowing
A method of sowing seeds by scattering them evenly over a large area.
Buffer Strip
Synonyms:
- Riparian buffer
- Vegetated filter strip
- Grassed waterway
- Conservation buffer
- Ecological buffer
- Greenbelt
An area of vegetation, such as grass or trees, located between agricultural fields or other land uses and a body of water, such as a stream, river, or lake. The purpose of a buffer strip is to filter sediment, nutrients, and pollutants from surface runoff, which helps to protect water quality and aquatic habitat. Buffer strips also provide other benefits, such as erosion control, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic value.
Butterfat
Synonyms:
- Milk fat
- Dairy fat
- Cream content
The percentage of fat in milk, often used as an indicator of quality.
Beneficial Insect
Synonyms:
- Beneficial bug
- Good bug
- Predator insect
An insect that provides benefits to crops and other plants by pollinating, controlling pests, or improving soil health.
Biomass
Synonyms:
- Bioenergy
- Renewable biomass
- Plant matter
Organic matter, such as wood chips, crop residues, or manure, that can be used as a fuel source or to produce energy.
Buckwheat
Synonyms:
- Fagopyrum esculentum
- Groats
- Kasha
A grain-like crop used for human consumption and as a cover crop.
Bacterial Wilt
Synonyms:
- Ralstonia solanacearum
- Southern Wilt
- Potato Brown Rot
A disease that affects a variety of plants and is caused by bacterial infection.
Bedding Plant
Synonyms:
- Flowering Plant
- Garden Plant
- Ornamental Plant
A plant that is grown and sold for ornamental use in gardens or landscaping.
Biocontrol
Synonyms:
- Biological Control
- Natural Control
- Biopesticide
The use of living organisms, such as beneficial insects or microbial agents, to control pests and diseases in crops.
Biological Nitrogen Fixation
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen Fixation
- Biological N-Fixation
- N2 Fixation
The process by which certain bacteria in the soil convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by plants.
Botanical Insecticide
Synonyms:
- Plant-based Insecticide
- Natural Insecticide
- Organic Insecticide
A pesticide derived from natural plant sources, such as pyrethrum or neem oil.
Brackish water
Synonyms:
- Saline water
- Briny water
- Salty water
Water that is a mix of freshwater and seawater, often found in coastal areas or estuaries.
Broad-spectrum pesticide
Synonyms:
- Non-selective pesticide
- General pesticide
- Multi-purpose pesticide
A pesticide that is effective against a wide range of pests and is not specific to a particular species.
Brownfield
Synonyms:
- Contaminated site
- Hazardous site
- Polluted land
A former industrial or commercial site that is contaminated and requires environmental remediation before it can be redeveloped.
Bulb
Synonyms:
- Onion
- Garlic
- Lily
A modified stem or leaf structure that stores food for a plant and produces new growth.
Bush hogging
Synonyms:
- Brush cutting
- Field clearing
- Pasture mowing
The practice of mowing down overgrown vegetation in fields and pastures with a heavy-duty rotary mower.
Bypass protein
Synonyms:
- Undegradable protein
- Rumen-bypass protein
- Escape protein
A type of protein in livestock feed that is not fully digested in the rumen, but is instead used by the animal’s lower digestive system.
Baleage
Synonyms:
- Silage bale
- Wrapped hay
- Fermented haylage
A type of haylage, made by baling wet forage and wrapping it in plastic to ferment.
Breeder
Synonyms:
- Seed breeder
- Livestock breeder
- Genetics researcher
A person or company that specializes in breeding and developing new varieties of plants or animals for agricultural purposes.
Black Rot
Synonyms:
- Xanthomonas campestris
- Crucifer black rot
- Grapevine black rot
A bacterial disease that affects a variety of plants, including crucifers and grapevines, and can cause significant crop loss.
Biodynamic Farming
Synonyms:
- Biodynamic agriculture
- Spiritual agriculture
- Anthroposophical agriculture
A type of farming that emphasizes the holistic approach of treating the farm as a living organism, integrating spiritual, ecological, and social principles in its practices.
Biofertilizer
Synonyms:
- Organic fertilizer
- Microbial fertilizer
- Eco-fertilizer
A type of fertilizer that contains living microorganisms that help improve soil health and plant growth.
Beneficial Nematode
Synonyms:
- Predatory nematode
- Entomopathogenic nematode
- Beneficial roundworm
A microscopic worm that helps control pests and diseases in plants by infecting and killing harmful insects and fungi.
Berries
Synonyms:
- Small fruit
- Berry fruit
- Soft fruit
A type of fruit that is typically small, juicy, and has a soft texture, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
Bracken Fern
Synonyms:
- Pteridium aquilinum
- Bracken
- Brake
A common fern species that can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large amounts.
Bovine Somatotropin
Synonyms:
- Bovine growth hormone
- BST
- rBST
A naturally occurring hormone in cows that stimulates milk production and can be artificially produced and used in dairy production.
Bulk Density
Synonyms:
- Soil density
- Soil weight
- Soil mass
The weight of soil per unit volume, often used as an indicator of soil quality and fertility.
Bunt
Synonyms:
- Tilletia
- Smut
- Black bunt
A fungal disease that affects cereal crops, causing stunted growth and reduced yield.
Bushel
Synonyms:
- Peck
- Quart
- Volume measure
A unit of measurement for agricultural commodities, such as grain or fruit, equivalent to 4 pecks or 32 quarts.
Bed Planting
Synonyms:
- Raised bed planting
- Hill planting
- Mound planting
A planting method that involves creating raised beds of soil to improve drainage, aeration, and soil quality for growing crops.
C
Compost
Synonyms:
- Humus
- Organic matter
- Fertilizer
A mixture of decaying organic matter, such as leaves, grass, and food scraps, used as a soil amendment to improve soil quality and fertility.
Crop rotation
Synonyms:
- Crop sequencing
- Crop succession
- Crop shifting
A farming practice that involves alternating the types of crops grown in a specific field each season to improve soil health and reduce pest and disease pressure.
Cultivar
Synonyms:
- Variety
- Strain
- Breed
A variety of plant that has been bred and selected for specific traits, such as disease resistance or yield.
Cover crop
Synonyms:
- Green manure
- Intercrop
- Catch crop
A crop planted between main crops to protect and improve the soil, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds.
Conservation tillage
Synonyms:
- No-till farming
- Reduced tillage
- Direct seeding
A farming practice that involves minimizing soil disturbance during tillage to reduce erosion and improve soil health.
Crop yield
Synonyms:
- Harvest
- Production
- Output
The amount of a crop harvested per unit of land, typically measured in bushels or tons per acre.
Cereal Crops
Synonyms:
- Grain crops
- Cereal grains
- Staple crops
Grasses grown for their edible grains, such as wheat, oats, and barley.
Crop Residue
Synonyms:
- Crop stubble
- Plant residue
- Biomass
The plant material remaining in the field after harvest, which can be left on the soil surface as mulch or incorporated into the soil as organic matter.
Commodity Crops
Synonyms:
- Cash crops
- Market crops
- Commercial crops
Crops grown for commercial purposes, such as soybeans, corn, and cotton.
Chlorosis
Synonyms:
- Yellowing
- Leaf discoloration
- Nutrient deficiency
A condition in plants where the leaves turn yellow due to nutrient deficiency or disease.
Conservation Farming
Synonyms:
- Sustainable agriculture
- Regenerative farming
- Eco-friendly farming
A farming practice that aims to conserve natural resources, such as soil, water, and biodiversity, through sustainable and efficient use of resources.
Crop Insurance
Synonyms:
- Agricultural insurance
- Farm insurance
- Crop protection
A type of insurance that provides financial protection for crop losses due to weather, pests, or other factors.
Chaff
Synonyms:
- Straw
- Stalks
- Refuse
The husks and straw left over after threshing grain.
Chlorophyll
Synonyms:
- Green pigment
- Plant pigment
- Photosynthetic pigment
The green pigment in plants that is essential for photosynthesis, the process of converting light energy into chemical energy.
Carbon Sequestration
Synonyms:
- Carbon capture
- Carbon storage
- Carbon sink
The process of capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere in soils, plants, or other natural systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
Conservation Reserve Program
Synonyms:
- CRP
- Conservation program
- Land retirement program
A U.S. government program that pays farmers to take environmentally sensitive land out of production and plant it with native vegetation to improve soil health and wildlife habitat.
Commodity Exchange
Synonyms:
- Futures market
- Commodity market
- Agricultural exchange
A marketplace where agricultural commodities, such as grains, livestock, and cotton, are traded as futures contracts or options.
Cation Exchange Capacity
Synonyms:
- Soil fertility
- Nutrient holding capacity
- Soil buffering capacity
The ability of soil to hold and exchange positively charged ions, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth.
Crop Diversification
Synonyms:
- Crop Variety
- Crop Mix
A farming practice that involves growing a variety of crops on a farm to reduce risk and increase profitability.
Cover Crop
Synonyms:
- Green Manure
- Catch Crop
- Nurse Crop
A crop that is planted primarily to help manage soil erosion, fertility, and quality by providing a protective cover during the off-season or between regular crop rotations.
Cultivar
Synonyms:
- Variety
- Hybrid
- Strain
A cultivated variety of a plant species that has been selected for specific desirable characteristics, such as yield, disease resistance, and flavor.
Cultivation
Synonyms:
- Farming
- Agriculture
- Horticulture
The process of preparing, planting, and caring for crops to promote their growth and yield.
Crop Rotation
Synonyms:
- Crop Sequencing
- Crop Intercropping
- Mixed Farming
A method of planting different crops in a particular sequence on the same field over time to improve soil health and fertility, prevent soil-borne diseases, and reduce pests and weeds.
Composting
Synonyms:
- Organic Recycling
- Humification
- Biodegradation
A natural process that involves breaking down organic materials, such as plant residues, food waste, and animal manure, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment through the action of microorganisms and earthworms.
Crop Yield
Synonyms:
- Harvest
- Output
- Productivity
The amount of crops produced per unit area of land or per unit of input, such as seed, fertilizer, and water, during a specific period of time.
Conservation Tillage
Synonyms:
- No-till farming
- Reduced tillage
- Zero tillage
A set of practices that reduce soil disturbance during planting and cultivation to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and conserve soil moisture and nutrients.
Chlorosis
Synonyms:
- Yellowing
- Bleaching
- Decoloration
A yellowing of plant leaves caused by a lack of chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis and plant growth.
Certified Organic
Synonyms:
- Organic certified
- USDA organic
- Eco-friendly
A label given to agricultural products that have been produced according to specific organic standards and regulations, which prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Cattle Feed
Synonyms:
- Livestock feed
- Cow feed
- Animal nutrition
A mixture of grains, forages, and supplements that is given to cattle to meet their nutritional needs and improve their growth, health, and productivity.
Crust
Synonyms:
- Soil crust
- Surface layer
- Hardened layer
A hard, compacted layer of soil on the surface of the ground that forms when the soil is subjected to rain, wind, or other physical forces.
Crop Insurance
Synonyms:
- Agricultural insurance
- Farm insurance
- Crop protection
An insurance policy that provides financial protection to farmers against crop losses due to natural disasters, such as drought, floods, and pests.
Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
Synonyms:
- Land conservation program
- Grassland reserve program
- Environmental conservation
A federal program that pays farmers to plant grasses, trees, or other vegetation on environmentally sensitive land to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and enhance wildlife habitat.
Canopy
Synonyms:
- Foliage
- Cover
- Vegetation
The uppermost layer of leaves, branches, and stems of a plant that forms a continuous cover over the ground.
Carbon Sequestration
Synonyms:
- Carbon capture
- Carbon storage
- Carbon fixation
The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) in plants, soils, and other organic matter to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
Conservation Easement
Synonyms:
- Land protection agreement
- Conservation restriction
- Conservation covenant
A legal agreement between a landowner and a conservation organization or government agency that limits certain uses or development on a piece of land to protect its natural resources, such as wildlife habitat, farmland, or open space.
Cow-calf Operation
Synonyms:
- Cow-calf enterprise
- Cow-calf business
- Breeding program
A type of beef cattle production system in which a farmer or rancher raises cows to give birth to calves, which are sold or raised for meat.
Contour Farming
Synonyms:
- Slope farming
- Cross-slope farming
- Contour cultivation
A farming technique that involves planting crops across the slope of the land, rather than up and down, to reduce soil erosion and improve water retention.
Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)
Synonyms:
- Indoor farming
- Greenhouse farming
- Vertical farming
A method of growing crops in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse or indoor facility, to optimize growth conditions and increase yields.
Cover Crop Mulching
Synonyms:
- Green manure mulching
- Living mulch
- Organic mulching
A technique of using cover crops as a mulch to protect soil from erosion, suppress weed growth, and improve soil fertility by adding organic matter when the cover crop is mowed or tilled into the soil.
D
Drought
Synonyms:
- Dry spell
- Water scarcity
- Aridity
A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall that causes a water shortage and negatively impacts crops, livestock, and the environment.
Dairy Farming
Synonyms:
- Milk production
- Dairy production
- Dairy husbandry
A type of farming that involves the production and processing of milk and milk products, typically from cows, but also from goats, sheep, or other animals.
Deforestation
Synonyms:
- Forest destruction
- Woodland clearance
- Tree removal
The clearing of forests or woodlands, often for agricultural or commercial purposes, which can lead to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Double-Cropping
Synonyms:
- Double-harvesting
- Two-crop system
- Double cropping
A farming practice that involves growing two crops in the same field in a single growing season, often achieved by planting a second crop immediately after harvesting the first.
Dryland Farming
Synonyms:
- Rainfed farming
- Dry farming
- Arid farming
A type of farming that relies solely on rainfall for irrigation, rather than using supplemental water sources, such as irrigation systems.
Deciduous
Synonyms:
- Leaf-shedding
- Seasonal shedding
- Shedding trees
Refers to trees or plants that lose their leaves annually, typically in the fall, as a response to changing seasons and weather conditions.
Direct Seeding
Synonyms:
- Direct sowing
- Direct planting
- Direct seeding
A planting technique that involves sowing seeds directly into the soil rather than transplanting seedlings, which can save time and money and reduce the risk of transplant shock.
Digestate
Synonyms:
- Anaerobic digestate
- Bio-fertilizer
- Organic matter
The organic matter that remains after anaerobic digestion of animal manure, food waste, or other organic materials, which can be used as a soil amendment or fertilizer.
Dry Weight
Synonyms:
- Dry matter
- Dry mass
- Residual weight
The weight of plant material, such as leaves or stems, after it has been dried to remove all moisture, which is often used to estimate biomass or nutrient content.
Drone
Synonyms:
- Agricultural drone
- Crop drone
- UAV
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with cameras or sensors that can be used for crop monitoring, mapping, or spraying.
Drip Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Trickle irrigation
- Micro-irrigation
- Localized irrigation
A watering system that delivers a slow, steady drip of water directly to the roots of plants, reducing water waste and improving plant health.
Dehorning
Synonyms:
- Horn removal
- Debudding
- Disbudding
The removal of horns from livestock, such as cows or goats, to prevent injuries or aggression towards other animals or handlers.
Drought Tolerant
Synonyms:
- Drought resistant
- Water-wise
- Xeric
Refers to plants or crops that can survive and thrive in areas with low rainfall or limited water availability.
Dryland Salinity
Synonyms:
- Saline soils
- Soil salinization
- Dryland salt
A type of soil salinity caused by the buildup of salt in the soil due to low rainfall and high evaporation rates, which can negatively impact plant growth and soil fertility.
Dung
Synonyms:
- Animal waste
- Manure
- Feces
Animal excrement, such as cow dung or chicken manure, that can be used as a fertilizer or soil amendment.
Dryer
Synonyms:
- Grain dryer
- Hay dryer
- Crop dryer
An agricultural machine used to remove moisture from crops, such as grain or hay, to improve storage quality and prevent mold growth.
Drip Line
Synonyms:
- Irrigation boundary
- Drip zone
- Watering zone
The boundary around a tree or plant where drip irrigation is applied, typically marked by a series of drip emitters or tubing.
Depletion Allowance
Synonyms:
- Natural resource deduction
- Depletion deduction
- Soil depletion allowance
A tax deduction available to farmers and landowners for the gradual depletion of natural resources, such as soil fertility or timber resources, due to their use in farming operations.
Double-Digging
Synonyms:
- Deep digging
- Intensive soil preparation
- Double-tilling
A soil preparation technique that involves digging down two spade lengths and loosening the soil to improve drainage, aeration, and root growth.
Draft Animal
Synonyms:
- Work animal
- Farm animal
- Beast of burden
An animal, such as a horse or ox, used for plowing fields, hauling loads, or other agricultural tasks, typically powered by their physical strength and endurance.
Direct Seeding
Synonyms:
- No-till planting
- Drill seeding
- Broadcast seeding
A method of planting seeds directly into the soil without first starting them in pots or trays, often used for crops such as vegetables, grains, or wildflowers.
Dairy
Synonyms:
- Milk production
- Dairy farming
- Cheese-making
A type of farming focused on producing milk and milk-based products from cows, goats, or other lactating animals.
Dormancy
Synonyms:
- Winter rest
- Hibernation
- Quiescence
A period of slowed or suspended growth in plants or crops, typically during the winter months, as a response to environmental conditions such as cold temperatures or decreased sunlight.
Dry Farming
Synonyms:
- Rainfed farming
- Dryland farming
- Drought farming
A type of farming practiced in arid regions, relying on natural rainfall and minimal irrigation to cultivate crops that can tolerate dry conditions.
Dust Bowl
Synonyms:
- Great Dust Bowl
- Dirty Thirties
- Soil Erosion Crisis
A historical period in the 1930s when severe drought and poor land management practices led to massive dust storms and soil erosion across the Great Plains of the United States, causing significant damage to agriculture and ecosystems.
Digestate
Synonyms:
- Anaerobic digestate
- Biogas residue
- Waste slurry
The organic matter left over after the anaerobic digestion of organic waste, which can be used as a fertilizer or soil amendment due to its high nutrient content.
Disease Resistance
Synonyms:
- Pathogen resistance
- Disease tolerance
- Immune system
The ability of plants or crops to resist or tolerate diseases caused by pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi, without requiring the use of chemical pesticides or treatments.
Ditch
Synonyms:
- Drainage ditch
- Irrigation ditch
- Trench
A long, narrow channel dug into the ground for the purpose of draining water or irrigating crops, often lined with concrete or other materials to prevent erosion.
Desiccation
Synonyms:
- Dehydration
- Drying
- Withering
The process of drying out or removing moisture from a plant or crop, either naturally or through artificial means, often used for preserving or processing purposes.
Dendrochronology
Synonyms:
- Tree-ring analysis
- Dendrology
- Tree age determination
The scientific study of tree rings to determine the age, growth patterns, and environmental history of trees, often used in agriculture and forestry research.
Drainage
Synonyms:
- Water management
- Soil drainage
- Land reclamation
The process of removing excess water from the soil, often through the use of drainage systems such as ditches or underground pipes, to prevent waterlogging and promote plant growth.
Double Cropping
Synonyms:
- Multiple cropping
- Intercropping
- Crop rotation
A farming practice where two crops are grown on the same plot of land during a single growing season, often in succession or rotation, to increase crop yield and land productivity.
Drip Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Trickle irrigation
- Micro-irrigation
- Localized irrigation
A type of irrigation system that delivers water directly to the roots of plants through a network of small tubes or hoses, reducing water waste and improving water efficiency.
Defoliation
Synonyms:
- Leaf removal
- Foliage trimming
- Pruning
The intentional or unintentional removal of leaves from plants or crops, often to manage pests or diseases, promote regrowth, or prepare for harvest.
Drought
Synonyms:
- Dry spell
- Water shortage
- Arid conditions
A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall or moisture levels, leading to water scarcity, crop failure, and other negative impacts on agriculture and ecosystems.
Dust Suppression
Synonyms:
- Dust control
- Particle suppression
- Air pollution prevention
The process of reducing or preventing the amount of dust or airborne particles released during agricultural activities such as tilling, harvesting, or processing, often through the use of water or other materials.
Digestibility
Synonyms:
- Feed efficiency
- Nutrient availability
- Digestion rate
The extent to which a plant or crop can be broken down and absorbed by animals or humans, often used as a measure of nutritional value or feed quality.
Direct Marketing
Synonyms:
- Farm-to-consumer marketing
- Direct-to-consumer sales
- Local food marketing
A marketing strategy where farmers or producers sell their products directly to consumers through channels such as farmers’ markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or online platforms, bypassing intermediaries such as wholesalers or retailers.
Drought Tolerance
Synonyms:
- Water stress tolerance
- Drought resistance
- Arid adaptation
The ability of plants or crops to withstand or adapt to drought conditions, often through genetic traits or environmental adaptations, reducing the need for irrigation and other water-intensive practices.
Dry Spell
Synonyms:
- Dry period
- Low precipitation
- Arid spell
A period of abnormally low rainfall or moisture levels, often shorter in duration than a full drought, but still capable of causing water scarcity, crop stress, and other negative impacts on agriculture and ecosystems.
Dry Farming
Synonyms:
- Rain-fed agriculture
- Non-irrigated farming
- Dryland farming
A farming technique that relies on natural precipitation and soil moisture retention, rather than irrigation or other water-intensive practices, to grow crops in areas with low rainfall or limited water resources.
Degradation
Synonyms:
- Land degradation
- Soil erosion
- Environmental degradation
The process of soil or land becoming degraded or damaged due to human activities such as overgrazing, deforestation, or intensive farming, leading to reduced productivity, biodiversity loss, and other negative impacts on the environment and society.
Detoxification
Synonyms:
- Toxin removal
- Detoxification treatment
- Bioremediation
The process of removing or reducing the amount of toxins or harmful substances in crops or soil, often through biological or chemical means, to improve plant health and food safety.
Dry Weight
Synonyms:
- Biomass weight
- Mass after drying
- Oven-dry weight
The weight of plant or crop material after all moisture has been removed, often used as a measure of biomass or yield.
Deep Tillage
Synonyms:
- Subsoiling
- Deep plowing
- Soil cultivation
A farming practice where soil is tilled or plowed to a greater depth than usual, often to break up compacted soil, improve water infiltration, or prepare soil for planting.
Digital Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Precision agriculture
- Smart farming
- Agricultural technology
The use of digital technologies such as sensors, drones, and data analytics to optimize and automate agricultural processes such as crop monitoring, irrigation management, and yield forecasting.
Direct Seeding
Synonyms:
- Direct planting
- Broadcast seeding
- No-till farming
A planting method where seeds are sown directly into the soil, rather than being transplanted or started in containers, often to save time, labor, and resources.
Diversification
Synonyms:
- Crop diversity
- Farming diversification
- Agricultural variety
The practice of growing multiple crops or using multiple farming techniques or products, often to spread risk, improve resilience, or enhance soil health and biodiversity.
Drought-Resistant
Synonyms:
- Drought-tolerant
- Water-efficient
- Arid-adapted
Refers to plants or crops that are adapted to or bred for drought conditions, often with traits such as deep roots, water-storing tissues, or reduced water needs.
Dual-Purpose
Synonyms:
- Multi-use
- Versatile
- Dual-function
Refers to crops or livestock that can be used for multiple purposes, such as both meat and milk production, or both grain and forage production.
E
Ear
Synonyms:
- Head
- Spike
- Cob
The part of the cereal plant that contains the grain or seed.
Earthing up
Synonyms:
- Hilling
- Ridging
A method of cultivation in which soil is mounded around the base of a plant, often used to control weeds or to promote the growth of tubers or roots.
Ear tag
Synonyms:
- Animal tag
- Ear marker
A small plastic or metal tag that is attached to the ear of an animal, often used to identify the animal or track its movement.
Easement
Synonyms:
- Right of way
- Access
A legal right to use someone else’s land for a specific purpose, such as access to a road or utility line.
Ecological succession
Synonyms:
- Succession
- Natural succession
The process by which an ecosystem changes over time as different species become dominant and others become extinct.
Eco-labeling
Synonyms:
- Green labeling
- Environmental labeling
The practice of labeling products with information about their environmental impact, such as their energy efficiency or carbon footprint.
Ecosystem
Synonyms:
- Biome
- Habitat
A community of living organisms and their physical environment, interacting as a complex and dynamic system.
Ectoparasite
Synonyms:
- External parasite
- Skin parasite
A parasite that lives on the external surface of a host organism, such as a tick or lice.
Edge effect
Synonyms:
- Edge influence
- Edge zone
The influence that the edge of an ecosystem has on the conditions and species within it, often resulting in a transition zone between different habitats.
Edible landscaping
Synonyms:
- Foodscaping
- Kitchen garden
The practice of designing and planting landscapes that include edible plants, such as fruit trees, herbs, and vegetables.
Efficiency
Synonyms:
- Effectiveness
- Productivity
The ability to achieve maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or resources.
Eggplant
Synonyms:
- Aubergine
- Brinjal
A plant of the nightshade family that produces edible fruit, typically purple or black in color.
Egyptian cotton
Synonyms:
- Luxury cotton
- Fine cotton
A high-quality cotton produced in Egypt, known for its long fibers and soft texture.
Elastomer
Synonyms:
- Rubber
- Elastic material
A synthetic or natural material with elastic properties, often used in the production of rubber products.
Electric fence
Synonyms:
- Electric barrier
- Shock fence
A barrier that uses an electric shock to deter animals or people from crossing a boundary.
Electrolyte
Synonyms:
- Conductive substance
- Salt
A substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in water or melted, often used in batteries or as a supplement for athletes.
Electromagnetic radiation
Synonyms:
- EM radiation
- Electromagnetic waves
A type of energy that travels through space as waves of electric and magnetic fields, such as light, radio waves, and X-rays.
Electromagnetic spectrum
Synonyms:
- Spectrum
- EM spectrum
The range of frequencies of electromagnetic radiation, from radio waves to gamma rays.
Electron microscope
Synonyms:
- EM microscope
- Electron microscopy
A type of microscope that uses a beam of electrons to magnify an image, often used to view the ultrastructure of cells and tissues.
Electronic data interchange (EDI)
Synonyms:
- Digital interchange
- Electronic commerce
The computer-to-computer exchange of business documents, such as purchase orders and invoices, in a standardized format.
Elevator
Synonyms:
- Lift
- Hoist
- Conveyor
- Escalator
A machine used to move people or goods vertically between floors or levels of a building. In agriculture, it refers to a machine used to lift and transport grain, crops, or other materials vertically.
Elm
Synonyms:
- Ulmus
- Elm tree
A deciduous tree of the Ulmaceae family, typically having a broad crown and serrated leaves. Elm trees are often planted as shade trees or used for ornamental purposes.
Emasculator
Synonyms:
- Castration forceps
- Bloodless castrator
A surgical instrument used to castrate male animals by crushing and cutting the spermatic cords.
Embryo transfer
Synonyms:
- Embryo implantation
- Embryo transplantation
A reproductive technique used in livestock breeding and assisted reproductive technology where an embryo is collected from a donor female and transferred into the reproductive tract of a recipient female to establish pregnancy.
Emergency harvest
Synonyms:
- Early harvest
- Premature harvest
A harvest that is conducted earlier than planned due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, disease outbreak, or pest infestation.
Emollient
Synonyms:
- Moisturizer
- Lotion
- Cream
- Balm
A substance, often in the form of a cream or lotion, that soothes, softens, and moisturizes the skin.
Emulsifier
Synonyms:
- Surfactant
- Emulsifying agent
- Emulsifying wax
A substance that promotes the mixing of two or more liquids that are normally immiscible, such as oil and water, by reducing the surface tension at their interface.
Enamel
Synonyms:
- Glaze
- Varnish
- Coating
A hard, shiny, protective coating that is applied to metal, glass, or ceramics, often used in the production of kitchenware, appliances, or dental materials.
Endemic
Synonyms:
- Indigenous
- Localized
- Restricted
A species or disease that is native or restricted to a particular geographic region or habitat.
Endive
Synonyms:
- Chicory
- Curly endive
- Frisée
A type of leafy green vegetable that is a member of the chicory family, often used in salads or as a cooked vegetable.
Endophyte
Synonyms:
- Symbiont
- Mutualistic microbe
A fungus or bacteria that lives within a plant without causing harm to its host, often providing benefits such as increased resistance to stress, pathogens, or pests.
Endosperm
Synonyms:
- Seed endosperm
- Nutritive tissue
The starchy tissue that surrounds the embryo in a seed, providing nutrients for its growth and development.
Endothelium
Synonyms:
- Vascular endothelium
- Endothelial cells
The layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels, playing a role in regulating blood flow, blood clotting, and immune responses.
Energy crops
Synonyms:
- Bioenergy crops
- Feedstocks
- Renewable crops
Crops that are grown specifically for their use as a source of renewable energy, such as biofuels or biomass.
Entomology
Synonyms:
- Insectology
- Bug science
The scientific study of insects and their interactions with humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
Enzyme
Synonyms:
- Catalyst
- Biocatalyst
- Enzyme protein
A type of protein that acts as a biological catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions in living organisms.
Eolian Soil
Synonyms:
- Aeolian soil
- Wind-blown soil
A type of soil that is formed by the accumulation of wind-blown sediment, often found in arid and semi-arid regions.
Earthworm
Synonyms:
- Angleworm
- Nightcrawler
A worm commonly found in soil that helps to break down organic matter and improve soil structure.
Ecofarming
Synonyms:
- Agroecology
- Ecological farming
A type of sustainable agriculture that prioritizes the use of natural resources and minimizing environmental impact.
Ecosystem
Synonyms:
- Biotic community
- Ecological system
A biological community of living organisms and their interactions with their environment.
Edible
Synonyms:
- Comestible
- Eatable
Food that is safe for consumption.
Efficiency
Synonyms:
- Productivity
- Effectiveness
- Efficacy
The ability to produce a maximum yield with minimum inputs, often measured as the ratio of output to input.
Electrification
Synonyms:
- Electrify
- Electrical power
- Electrification system
The use of electricity to power farm equipment, machinery, or systems, often as a means of reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Embryo
Synonyms:
- Germ
- Seedling
- Embryonic stage
An undeveloped plant or animal organism in its earliest stage of development, typically consisting of a few cells.
Emergence
Synonyms:
- Sprouting
- Germination
- Growth initiation
The process by which a plant breaks through the soil surface and begins to grow above ground, often triggered by environmental cues such as temperature or moisture.
Energy Crops
Synonyms:
- Bioenergy crops
- Biofuels
- Renewable energy crops
Crops grown specifically for use as a fuel source, such as ethanol or biodiesel, often as a means of reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Entomology
Synonyms:
- Insect science
- Bug science
The scientific study of insects, including their biology, behavior, and ecology.
Environment
Synonyms:
- Habitat
- Ecosystem
The physical, biological, and social surroundings in which an organism operates.
Erosion
Synonyms:
- Degradation
- Weathering
The natural process by which soil or rock is worn away by water, wind, or other agents.
Estate
Synonyms:
- Plantation
- Farmstead
A large agricultural property, often used for farming or ranching.
Ethanol
Synonyms:
- Bioethanol
- Grain alcohol
A type of alcohol made from grains, sugarcane, or other plant materials, commonly used as a fuel.
Evaporation
Synonyms:
- Vaporization
- Drying
The process by which liquid water is converted to water vapor and released into the atmosphere.
Extension
Synonyms:
- Outreach
- Education
The process of transferring knowledge, skills, and technology from agricultural experts to farmers and rural communities.
Externalities
Synonyms:
- spillover effects
- external costs
Costs or benefits associated with agricultural production or consumption that are not reflected in market prices.
F
Fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Plant food
- Nutrient
- Manure
A substance added to soil or crops to increase their growth and yield.
Farmstead
Synonyms:
- Farm
- Homestead
A plot of land, along with its buildings and other structures, used for agricultural purposes.
Fallow
Synonyms:
- Fallow land
- Resting land
A field or plot of land that is left uncultivated for a period of time to allow the soil to rest and recover its nutrients.
Fodder
Synonyms:
- Animal feed
- Forage
Food, such as hay or silage, used for livestock.
Fungi
Synonyms:
- Molds
- Yeasts
- Mushrooms
A group of microorganisms that can cause plant diseases or be used in beneficial ways such as breaking down organic matter.
Floriculture
Synonyms:
- Flower farming
- Horticulture
The cultivation and sale of flowers and ornamental plants.
Furrow
Synonyms:
- Groove
- Trough
A long, narrow trench made in soil to plant crops or facilitate irrigation.
Feedlot
Synonyms:
- Feed yard
- Fattening farm
A facility where livestock are fed high-energy feed to promote rapid growth prior to slaughter.
Fruit Tree
Synonyms:
- Fruit-bearing tree
- Orchard tree
A tree that produces fruit that is edible for humans or animals.
Free-range
Synonyms:
- Free-roaming
- Pasture-raised
A method of raising livestock where they have access to roam and graze freely outdoors.
Forestry
Synonyms:
- Forest management
- Silviculture
The science and practice of cultivating, managing, and harvesting forests for timber or other purposes.
Fumigation
Synonyms:
- Pest control
- Disinfection
The process of using chemicals or gases to control pests or diseases in crops or stored products.
Farm Bill
Synonyms:
- Agricultural Act
- Farm Act
Legislation passed by the U.S. Congress every five years that sets policies and funding levels for agriculture and nutrition programs.
Farmers’ Market
Synonyms:
- Farm Stand
- Green Market
A physical marketplace where farmers directly sell their fresh produce and other farm products to consumers.
Farm-to-Table
Synonyms:
- Farm-to-Fork
- Locavore
A food production and consumption movement that emphasizes the use of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
Frost
Synonyms:
- Freeze
- Cold Snap
A weather event that occurs when the temperature drops below freezing, potentially causing damage to crops or other vegetation.
Fertigation
Synonyms:
- Irrigation Fertilization
- Drip Feeding
A method of delivering fertilizers to crops through irrigation systems.
Flax
Synonyms:
- Linseed
- Linen
A crop that is grown for its fiber and seeds, which are used for textiles, food, and other products.
Fruit Set
Synonyms:
- Pollination
- Fruit Initiation
The process by which flowers on fruit trees are fertilized and begin to develop into fruit.
Fungicide
Synonyms:
- Antifungal
- Mold Killer
A chemical substance used to kill or prevent the growth of fungi that can damage crops or other vegetation.
Feedlot
Synonyms:
- Fattening pen
- Finishing yard
A confined area where livestock, typically cattle, are fed a high-energy diet to promote rapid weight gain before slaughter.
Fallow
Synonyms:
- Idle
- Resting
A period of time when farmland is left unplanted to allow the soil to rest and regenerate.
Farmstead
Synonyms:
- Homestead
- Farm complex
A farm and its buildings, including the farmhouse, barns, and other structures.
Food security
Synonyms:
- Food safety
- Food sovereignty
The state of having access to enough nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life.
Free range
Synonyms:
- Free-roaming
- Pastured
A system of animal husbandry where animals are allowed to move freely outdoors rather than being confined to pens or cages.
Frost heave
Synonyms:
- Soil heaving
- Frost uplift
The upward movement of soil and plant material caused by repeated cycles of freezing and thawing.
Furrow
Synonyms:
- Trench
- Groove
A shallow trench made in soil for planting seeds or irrigation.
Flowering
Synonyms:
- Bloom
- Blossom
The process by which plants produce flowers, which can develop into fruit or seeds.
Farm-to-School Program
Synonyms:
- Farm-to-Cafeteria
- Local School Food
A program that connects local farmers with schools to provide fresh, healthy food for school meals and educational opportunities for students.
Fumigation
Synonyms:
- Pest Control
- Pesticide Application
A method of pest control that involves filling an enclosed space with a toxic gas to kill insects or other pests.
Farm Management
Synonyms:
- Agricultural Management
- Farm Administration
The process of organizing and overseeing the operations of a farm to maximize productivity and profitability.
Feed Conversion Ratio
Synonyms:
- Feed Efficiency
- Feed to Gain Ratio
A measure of an animal’s efficiency in converting feed into body weight gain.
Forest Farming
Synonyms:
- Agroforestry
- Woodland Farming
A sustainable land-use system that combines the cultivation of crops under the canopy of a managed forest ecosystem.
Flue-Cured Tobacco
Synonyms:
- Bright Tobacco
- Virginia Tobacco
A type of tobacco that is cured in a barn using heat generated by a wood or gas-fired heater.
Food Miles
Synonyms:
- Food Transport Distance
- Food Transportation Carbon Footprint
A measure of the distance that food travels from the place where it is produced to the place where it is consumed.
Fusarium
Synonyms:
- Fusarium spp.
- Fungal Pathogens
A type of fungus that can cause disease in plants and produce harmful toxins.
Fermentation
Synonyms:
- Anaerobic Digestion
- Microbial Digestion
The process by which microorganisms, such as yeast or bacteria, convert sugars into alcohol or organic acids.
Fallowing
Synonyms:
- Crop Rotation
- Resting
The act of leaving farmland unplanted for a period of time to restore soil fertility or control weeds.
Food Waste
Synonyms:
- Food Loss
- Wasted Food
Any food that is discarded, uneaten, or spoiled.
Foliar Feeding
Synonyms:
- Foliar Application
- Leaf Feeding
A method of fertilizing plants by spraying a liquid fertilizer directly onto their leaves.
Frost Protection
Synonyms:
- Frost Control
- Cold Protection
Measures taken to prevent or minimize damage to crops caused by frost, such as covering them with blankets or sprinkling them with water.
Farm-to-Table
Synonyms:
- Farm-to-Fork
- Farm-to-Market
A movement that emphasizes the use of locally sourced, seasonal, and sustainable food in restaurants and other food service establishments.
Furrow Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Flood Irrigation
- Surface Irrigation
A method of irrigation in which water is distributed in shallow channels or furrows between crop rows.
Fescue
Synonyms:
- Festuca spp.
- Fine Fescue
A type of grass commonly used in pastures and lawns.
Farm Bill
Synonyms:
- Agricultural Policy
- Farm Legislation
A comprehensive piece of legislation that addresses various agricultural and food-related issues, such as crop insurance, conservation, and nutrition programs.
Food Security
Synonyms:
- Food Access
- Food Availability
The state of having reliable access to sufficient, affordable, and nutritious food.
Forage
Synonyms:
- Fodder
- Feed
Food for livestock, such as hay, silage, or pasture grasses.
Farmer’s Market
Synonyms:
- Local Market
- Outdoor Market
A market where farmers sell their fresh produce and other agricultural products directly to consumers.
Farmstead
Synonyms:
- Homestead
- Rural Property
The buildings and surrounding land that make up a farm, including the farmhouse, barns, and other structures.
G
Greenhouse
Synonyms:
- Glasshouse
- Hothouse
A structure used for growing plants in a controlled environment, usually made of glass or plastic.
Genetic Engineering
Synonyms:
- Genetic Modification
- Gene Editing
The process of altering an organism’s genetic material to introduce desired traits or characteristics.
Glyphosate
Synonyms:
- Roundup
- Weed Killer
A widely used herbicide that is effective at killing weeds and other unwanted vegetation.
Grazing
Synonyms:
- Browsing
- Feeding
The practice of allowing livestock to feed on grass or other vegetation in a pasture or range.
Germination
Synonyms:
- Sprouting
- Budding
The process by which a plant’s seed begins to grow and develop into a seedling.
Groundwater
Synonyms:
- Subsurface Water
- Well Water
Water that is located beneath the earth’s surface in porous rock formations or aquifers.
Green Manure
Synonyms:
- Cover Crop
- Soil Builder
A crop that is grown specifically to be tilled back into the soil to improve its fertility and structure.
Grafting
Synonyms:
- Bud grafting
- Scion grafting
A horticultural technique in which a stem or bud from one plant is inserted into the stem or rootstock of another plant, resulting in a new plant with desirable traits.
Grading
Synonyms:
- Sorting
- Classification
The process of sorting agricultural products by quality, size, or other characteristics.
Grain
Synonyms:
- Cereal
- Staple
The edible seeds of cereal crops, such as wheat, corn, or rice.
Gleaning
Synonyms:
- Harvesting
- Scavenging
The practice of collecting leftover crops from fields after the harvest is complete.
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)
Synonyms:
- Transgenic organism
- Genetically engineered organism
An organism that has been genetically modified using modern biotechnology techniques.
Green Revolution
Synonyms:
- Agricultural Revolution
- Third Agricultural Revolution
A period of significant agricultural productivity improvement in the 20th century, characterized by the use of high-yielding crop varieties, irrigation, and fertilizers.
Growing Season
Synonyms:
- Planting season
- Crop season
The period of the year when the climate is suitable for plant growth and development.
Ground cover
Synonyms:
- Cover crop
- Living mulch
Low-growing plants or crops that cover the soil surface, preventing erosion and improving soil health.
Grain elevator
Synonyms:
- Grain silo
- Granary
A facility used for storing, cleaning, and distributing grain crops.
Grower
Synonyms:
- Farmer
- Cultivator
A person or business that grows and produces agricultural products.
Grubbing
Synonyms:
- Clearing
- Uprooting
The process of removing roots and stumps of trees or other vegetation from the ground.
Gypsum
Synonyms:
- Calcium sulfate
- Plaster of Paris
A mineral commonly used in agriculture as a soil conditioner or fertilizer.
Gross domestic product (GDP)
Synonyms:
- Economic growth
- National income
A measure of the total economic output of a country or region, including the value of agricultural products.
Grazing
Synonyms:
- Pasturing
- Foraging
The practice of allowing animals, typically livestock, to feed on vegetation in a specific area.
Greenhouse
Synonyms:
- Hothouse
- Conservatory
A structure used for growing plants in a controlled environment, typically made of glass or plastic.
Groundwater
Synonyms:
- Subsurface water
- Well water
Water that is stored underground in the soil or rock, often used for irrigation in agriculture.
Growth Regulator
Synonyms:
- Plant hormone
- Growth hormone
A chemical compound used in agriculture to control the growth and development of plants.
Guild
Synonyms:
- Ecological community
- Co-culture
A group of plant or animal species that work together in a mutually beneficial way in an ecosystem.
Grading
Synonyms:
- Sorting
- Classifying
The process of sorting agricultural products by size, quality, or other criteria.
Green Manure
Synonyms:
- Cover crop
- Soil-building crop
A cover crop grown specifically to improve soil fertility, typically plowed under before it reaches maturity.
Germination
Synonyms:
- Sprouting
- Emergence
The process by which a seed begins to grow and develop into a plant.
Grain
Synonyms:
- Cereal
- Crop
A seed or fruit of a cereal crop, such as wheat, rice, or corn.
Genetic Diversity
Synonyms:
- Biodiversity
- Genetic Variation
The variety of genetic material within a species, which is essential for adaptation and resilience in agriculture.
Glyphosate
Synonyms:
- Roundup
- Weed Killer
A widely used herbicide in agriculture to control weeds.
Grafting
Synonyms:
- Budding
- Splicing
The process of joining the tissues of two plants to create a new plant with desirable traits.
Gully Erosion
Synonyms:
- Channel Erosion
- Water Erosion
The process of soil erosion caused by the concentrated flow of water, which creates deep channels or gullies.
Ground Cover
Synonyms:
- Cover Crop
- Soil Protector
Plants grown to cover and protect the soil, typically used for erosion control or weed suppression.
Growing Season
Synonyms:
- Crop Season
- Planting Season
The period of the year when the climate is suitable for crop growth and development.
Growing medium
Synonyms:
- Growing substrate
- Planting mix
The material in which plants are grown, such as soil, compost, or hydroponic solution.
Grain dryer
Synonyms:
- Grain drier
- Grain handler
A machine used in agriculture to dry and reduce the moisture content of grain before storage or transportation.
Ginning
Synonyms:
- Cotton processing
- Cotton cleaning
The process of separating cotton fibers from the seeds and other impurities.
Groundwater recharge
Synonyms:
- Aquifer recharge
- Groundwater replenishment
The process by which water is added to an aquifer or underground water storage.
Grubbing
Synonyms:
- Land clearing
- Root removal
The process of removing stumps and roots from land to prepare it for cultivation.
Green manure
Synonyms:
- Cover crop
- Soil improver
A cover crop that is grown specifically to be tilled into the soil to improve its fertility and organic matter content.
Grazing
Synonyms:
- Pasture feeding
- Range feeding
The practice of allowing livestock to feed on pastures or other natural vegetation. .
Greenhouse
Synonyms:
- Glasshouse
- Hothouse
A structure used for growing plants in a controlled environment, typically with glass or plastic walls and roof.
Genetic Modification
Synonyms:
- Genetic Engineering
- Gene Editing
The process of altering the DNA of an organism to introduce new traits, such as increased yield or resistance to pests or diseases.
Grassland
Synonyms:
- Pasture
- Prairie
An area dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants, typically used for grazing or hay production.
Germplasm
Synonyms:
- Plant Genetic Resources
- Gene Bank
The genetic material of a plant, including seeds, tissue cultures, and other reproductive material, used for breeding or conservation purposes.
Green Revolution
Synonyms:
- Agricultural Revolution
- Food Revolution
A period of agricultural innovation and technological advancement in the mid-20th century that resulted in increased crop yields and productivity.
Groundwater
Synonyms:
- Subterranean Water
- Well Water
Water that exists underground in aquifers and is often used for irrigation in agriculture.
Grain
Synonyms:
- Cereal
- Crop
The seeds of cereal crops such as wheat, rice, and corn, used for food, animal feed, and other industrial purposes. .
Growing degree days
Synonyms:
- Heat units
- Thermal time
A measure of heat accumulation over time used to predict the development and maturity of crops.
H
Habitat
Synonyms:
- Environment
- Territory
- Domain
The natural environment in which a plant or animal species typically lives.
Hardpan
Synonyms:
- Soil compaction
- Impermeable layer
- Dense soil
A hard, compacted layer of soil that restricts root growth and water infiltration.
Harvest
Synonyms:
- Crop yield
- Reaping
- Gathering
The process of collecting mature crops from the field.
Hay
Synonyms:
- Fodder
- Forage
- Straw
Dried grass or other plants used as animal feed.
Headland
Synonyms:
- Turning point
- End-row
- Boundary
A strip of land at the end of a field used for turning farm machinery.
Hedgerow
Synonyms:
- Border
- Fence
- Windbreak
A line of trees, bushes or other plants grown to mark a boundary or provide shelter for crops or livestock.
Herbaceous
Synonyms:
- Non-woody
- Leafy
- Green
Referring to plants with soft, green stems that die back at the end of the growing season.
Herbicide
Synonyms:
- Weedkiller
- Chemical control
- Pesticide
A substance used to kill or control weeds.
Heterozygous
Synonyms:
- Hybrid
- Mixed
- Diverse
Referring to an organism with two different alleles for a particular gene.
High tunnel
Synonyms:
- Hoop house
- Polytunnel
- Covered field
A type of greenhouse used for growing crops in a protected environment.
Hilling
Synonyms:
- Mounding
- Earthing up
- Ridge-tilling
The process of creating a mound of soil around the base of a plant to provide support and protection.
Hoof
Synonyms:
- Foot
- Paw
- Trotter
The hard, horny covering on the foot of an animal, such as a horse or cow.
Humus
Synonyms:
- Compost
- Organic soil
- Topsoil
The organic matter in soil created by the decomposition of plant and animal material.
Hybrid
Synonyms:
- Crossbreed
- Mix
- Blend
An organism produced by crossing two different varieties or species.
Hydroponics
Synonyms:
- Soilless cultivation
- Water culture
- Aquaculture
The method of growing plants in a nutrient-rich water solution rather than soil.
Hypoxia
Synonyms:
- Oxygen deficiency
- Anoxia
- Suffocation
A condition in which there is a deficiency of oxygen in the soil or water, leading to reduced plant growth and productivity.
Hectare
Synonyms:
- Acre
- Plot
- Field
A unit of measurement for land area, equivalent to 10,000 square meters.
Honeydew
Synonyms:
- Insect excrement
- Sticky secretion
- Sugary waste
A sweet, sticky substance produced by aphids and other sap-sucking insects that can attract ants and cause damage to plants.
Harvest Index
Synonyms:
- Yield ratio
- Crop efficiency
- Harvest ratio
The ratio of the edible portion of a crop to the total biomass produced.
Hardiness
Synonyms:
- Toughness
- Resilience
- Durability
The ability of a plant to withstand adverse environmental conditions, such as extreme cold or heat.
Hydrology
Synonyms:
- Water cycle
- Watershed management
- Aquatic ecology
The study of water in the natural environment, including its distribution, movement, and quality.
Humidity
Synonyms:
- Moisture level
- Dampness
- Wetness
The amount of moisture in the air, which can affect plant growth and health.
Harvesting Equipment
Synonyms:
- Combine harvester
- Tractor
- Harvester
- Reaper
Machinery used for the collection and processing of crops.
Harvest
Synonyms:
- Crop
- Yield
- Produce
- Reaping
The act of gathering crops, also the crops themselves.
Horticulture
Synonyms:
- Gardening
- Cultivation
- Floriculture
- Arboriculture
The practice of cultivating plants, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.
Hybrid
Synonyms:
- Crossbreed
- Mix
- Blend
- Cross
The offspring of two different plant varieties or species, often bred for improved traits.
Humus
Synonyms:
- Compost
- Soil
- Earth
- Loam
A component of soil made up of decaying organic matter.
Hydroponics
Synonyms:
- Soilless farming
- Aquaculture
- Aquaponics
- Vertical farming
The practice of growing plants in a nutrient-rich water solution, without soil.
Harvesting Equipment
Synonyms:
- Combine harvester
- Tractor
- Harvester
- Reaper
Machinery designed for the specific task of harvesting crops.
Herbicide
Synonyms:
- Weed killer
- Plant killer
- Pesticide
- Insecticide
A chemical substance used to kill unwanted plants or weeds.
Humidity
Synonyms:
- Moisture
- Dampness
- Wetness
- Mugginess
The amount of moisture in the air, which can affect plant growth.
Hay
Synonyms:
- Fodder
- Straw
- Silage
- Feed
Grass or other plants that have been cut and dried for use as animal feed.
Hectare
Synonyms:
- Acreage
- Land
- Plot
- Field
A unit of land measurement, equal to 10,000 square meters or 2.471 acres.
Harvest season
Synonyms:
- Crop season
- Harvest time
- Reaping time
- Gathering season
The time of year when crops are ready to be harvested.
Herd
Synonyms:
- Flock
- Group
- Drove
- Pack
A group of domesticated animals, such as cows or sheep, that are kept together for farming purposes.
Hydrology
Synonyms:
- Water management
- Hydrogeology
- Hydrodynamics
- Hydrochemistry
The study of water in the environment, including its distribution, movement, and quality.
Heat stress
Synonyms:
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat stroke
- Hyperthermia
- Sunstroke
A condition in plants or animals caused by exposure to high temperatures for prolonged periods of time.
Harvest index
Synonyms:
- Yield ratio
- Crop efficiency
- Harvest efficiency
- Yield index
The ratio of harvested yield to total biomass produced by a crop.
Holistic agriculture
Synonyms:
- Regenerative agriculture
- Sustainable agriculture
- Organic farming
- Permaculture
A farming approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all parts of the ecosystem, including soil, water, plants, and animals.
High tunnel
Synonyms:
- Hoop house
- Polytunnel
- Cold frame
- Hot house
A type of greenhouse structure used for growing crops in a protected environment.
Hopper
Synonyms:
- Bin
- Silo
- Container
- Receptacle
A container used to hold or transport bulk materials, such as grain or fertilizer.
Heavy metals
Synonyms:
- Toxic metals
- Hazardous metals
- Metallic pollutants
- Heavy metal ions
Metallic elements that can be toxic to plants, animals, and humans in high concentrations.
Hydrophobic
Synonyms:
- Water-repellent
- Waterproof
- Water-resistant
- Hydrophobic material
A term used to describe substances or materials that repel water, making them difficult to wet or penetrate. This property can be useful in a variety of applications, including coatings, textiles, and construction materials.
I
Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Watering
- Watering system
The artificial application of water to crops.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Synonyms:
- Holistic pest management
- Sustainable pest management
An approach to pest management that uses a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical control methods.
Insecticide
Synonyms:
- Bug spray
- Pesticide
A chemical substance used to kill insects.
Intercropping
Synonyms:
- Companion cropping
- Interplanting
Growing two or more crops together on the same land in a particular pattern or sequence.
Inbreeding
Synonyms:
- Consanguinity
- Incestuous breeding
The mating of closely related organisms.
Incubator
Synonyms:
- Egg hatcher
- Brooder
A device used for hatching eggs artificially.
Inoculant
Synonyms:
- Microbial inoculant
- Biofertilizer
A substance containing beneficial microorganisms that are used to improve soil fertility or crop growth.
Inoculation
Synonyms:
- Bioinoculation
- Microbial inoculation
- Microbial seeding
The process of introducing beneficial microorganisms to the soil or crop to enhance growth and productivity, improve soil health, and suppress plant diseases.
Inorganic Fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Chemical fertilizer
- Synthetic fertilizer
A fertilizer that does not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds, and is typically derived from mineral sources.
Integrated Farming System
Synonyms:
- Mixed farming
- Diversified farming
A farming system that combines multiple agricultural activities, such as crop cultivation, livestock rearing, and fisheries.
Industrial Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Factory farming
- Agribusiness
A type of agriculture that emphasizes large-scale, mechanized production of crops and livestock.
Infiltration
Synonyms:
- Percolation
- Absorption
The process by which water seeps into the soil.
Inversion
Synonyms:
- Temperature inversion
- Atmospheric inversion
A weather phenomenon in which warm air is trapped beneath a layer of cooler air, often causing damage to crops.
Insect Resistance
Synonyms:
- Insect Tolerance
- Pest Resistance
The ability of a plant to withstand or repel insect infestation or damage without the use of insecticides.
Inoculum
Synonyms:
- Culture
- Sample
The material used to introduce microorganisms to a plant or soil, typically for the purpose of promoting growth or improving soil fertility.
Inbreed Line
Synonyms:
- Pure Line
- Strain
A group of plants or animals that have been selectively bred to maintain a specific set of desirable genetic traits.
Intensive Farming
Synonyms:
- Industrial Agriculture
- High-Input Farming
Agricultural production that relies on high levels of input, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery, to achieve high yields.
Immunity
Synonyms:
- Resistance
- Defense
The ability of a plant or animal to resist infection or disease, often through the production of antibodies or other immune system responses.
Inoculation Loop
Synonyms:
- Inoculation Needle
- Bacterial Loop
A tool used in microbiology to transfer small amounts of bacteria or other microorganisms from one location to another, typically for the purpose of culturing or analyzing them.
Insect Pollination
Synonyms:
- Entomophily
- Insect-mediated pollination
The process by which insects, such as bees, transfer pollen from one plant to another, facilitating fertilization.
Inbred
Synonyms:
- Purebred
- Homozygous
Referring to a plant or animal that has been selectively bred for generations to maintain a particular set of genetic traits.
Inoculation Technique
Synonyms:
- Bioinoculation method
- Microbial inoculation procedure
The method used to apply inoculants to soil or plants.
Inorganic Soil
Synonyms:
- Mineral soil
- Sandy soil
Soil that lacks organic matter and nutrients, and is typically found in arid regions.
Insect Growth Regulator
Synonyms:
- insect development inhibitor
- insect hormonal disruptor
- insect growth disruptor
A chemical compound that disrupts the growth and development of insects, often used as an alternative to traditional insecticides.
Irradiation
Synonyms:
- Radiation processing
- Cold pasteurization
The process of exposing food to ionizing radiation in order to kill harmful bacteria and extend shelf life.
Inoculation Efficiency
Synonyms:
- Inoculation success rate
- Microbial establishment
The percentage of applied inoculant that successfully colonizes the soil or plant.
Irrigation Efficiency
Synonyms:
- Irrigation use efficiency
- Water productivity
The percentage of water applied through irrigation that is actually used by the crops.
Insecticide Resistance
Synonyms:
- Pesticide resistance
- Pest control failure
The ability of insects to tolerate or survive exposure to insecticides.
Invasive Species
Synonyms:
- Alien species
- Exotic species
Non-native plants or animals that have the potential to harm the environment, economy, or human health.
Intertillage
Synonyms:
- Interrow cultivation
- Interhoeing
The process of cultivating soil between rows of crops to control weeds and improve soil structure.
Interplanting
Synonyms:
- Mixed cropping
- Polyculture
The practice of growing different crops together in the same field to increase diversity and productivity.
Insectary
Synonyms:
- Beneficial insect habitat
- Bug hotel
A habitat designed to attract and sustain populations of beneficial insects, such as pollinators and predators.
IPM Threshold
Synonyms:
- Action threshold
- Economic injury level
The level of pest damage at which control measures should be initiated in an integrated pest management program.
Insect Pathogens
Synonyms:
- Entomopathogens
- Insect diseases
Microorganisms that can infect and kill insects, often used as a biological control method.
Inoculation Volume
Synonyms:
- Microbial dose
- Application rate
The amount of inoculant applied per unit area of soil or plant.
Insecticidal Soap
Synonyms:
- Insecticidal detergent
- Natural insecticide
A type of pesticide made from natural soap or fatty acids, used to control soft-bodied insects.
Integrated Weed Management
Synonyms:
- Sustainable weed management
- Holistic weed control
A holistic approach to weed control that combines various methods, such as cultural, mechanical, and chemical.
Inheritance
Synonyms:
- Heredity
- Genetics
The passing of genetic traits from one generation to the next.
Ions
Synonyms:
- Electrolytes
- Mineral ions
Charged particles, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, that are essential nutrients for plant growth.
Integrated Aquaculture
Synonyms:
- Aquaponics
- Integrated Fish Farming
A system that combines fish farming with other forms of agriculture, such as hydroponics or rice farming.
Integrated Weed Management (IWM)
Synonyms:
- Holistic Weed Management
- Sustainable Weed Control
An approach to weed control that uses a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods.
Insect Netting
Synonyms:
- Bug Netting
- Insect Screen
A type of mesh material used to protect crops from insect damage.
Intra-row Cultivation
Synonyms:
- Inter-row Cultivation
- Band Cultivation
A cultivation method used to control weeds within the rows of crops.
Inoculum Density
Synonyms:
- Microbial Density
- Bacterial Concentration
The concentration of microorganisms in an inoculum.
Integrated Crop Management (ICM)
Synonyms:
- Sustainable Crop Management
- Holistic Crop Production
A system of crop production that combines multiple practices to optimize yields while minimizing inputs and environmental impacts.
Inter-row Seeding
Synonyms:
- Intercropping
- Companion planting
A seeding method in which seeds are sown in the spaces between the rows of crops.
Intercultural Operations
Synonyms:
- Field operations
- Crop management practices
Farm operations carried out during the growing season, such as weeding, fertilizing, and pruning.
Inverse Tiller
Synonyms:
- Weed inversion tiller
- Weed flipper
A tillage implement that uproots weeds and turns them upside down to dry out and die.
Inorganic Nitrogen
Synonyms:
- Mineral nitrogen
- Synthetic nitrogen
Nitrogen that is not part of organic compounds, and is often added to soil as fertilizer.
Inoculant Carrier
Synonyms:
- Inoculation carrier
- Microbial carrier
A material used to deliver beneficial microorganisms to soil or plants, such as peat moss or vermiculite.
Inoculum Preparation
Synonyms:
- Microbial culture preparation
- Bioinoculum production
The process of preparing a mixture of microorganisms for inoculation, often including growing and multiplying the microorganisms.
Intercropping System
Synonyms:
- Companion cropping system
- Mixed cropping system
A system of crop production in which multiple crops are grown together in a particular arrangement or sequence to maximize productivity and sustainability. .
J
Jassids
Synonyms:
- Leafhoppers
- Sap-sucking insects
A type of insect that feeds on the sap of plants, causing damage and reduced yields.
Jujube
Synonyms:
- Chinese date
- Red date
A small, sweet fruit that grows on a tree of the same name.
Jatropha
Synonyms:
- Purgative oil plant
- Physic nut
A drought-resistant shrub or tree that is grown for its oil-rich seeds, which can be used for biodiesel production.
Jointing
Synonyms:
- Stem elongation
- Internode formation
The stage in plant growth when the stem of a grass plant elongates and forms joints, usually in response to environmental conditions.
Jute
Synonyms:
- Corchorus
- Tossa jute
- White jute
A type of plant fiber that is commonly used for making sacks, rope, and other products.
John Deere
Synonyms:
- Deere & Company
- Green machines
A brand of farm machinery, particularly tractors and other heavy equipment, known for their green and yellow color scheme.
Japanese Beetle
Synonyms:
- Popillia japonica
A type of beetle that feeds on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of many different plant species, causing damage and reduced yields.
Jerusalem Artichoke
Synonyms:
- Helianthus tuberosus
- Sunchoke
A type of sunflower that produces a tuber that can be eaten as a root vegetable or used to make alcohol.
Juniper Berry
Synonyms:
- Juniperus communis
A small, blue-black berry that grows on a type of evergreen tree, often used as a spice or flavoring.
Jaggery
Synonyms:
- Gur
A type of unrefined sugar made from sugarcane juice or palm sap.
Job’s Tears
Synonyms:
- Coix lacryma-jobi
- Chinese Pearl Barley
A type of grass that produces hard, bead-like seeds that can be used for decoration or as a food source.
Jamun
Synonyms:
- Syzygium cumini
- Indian Blackberry
A tropical fruit tree that produces a small, purple-black fruit with a sweet and tangy flavor.
Jackfruit
Synonyms:
- Artocarpus heterophyllus
A large, tropical fruit that can weigh up to 80 pounds and is commonly used as a meat substitute due to its texture and flavor.
Jicama
Synonyms:
- Pachyrhizus erosus
- Mexican yam bean
A root vegetable with a crisp texture and slightly sweet flavor, often used in salads and other dishes.
Jerked Meat
Synonyms:
- Jamaican Jerky
A type of meat that has been marinated in a spicy seasoning blend and then dried or smoked, often associated with Jamaican cuisine.
Jaggery Powder
Synonyms:
- Gur Powder
A finely ground version of jaggery sugar, commonly used in baking and cooking.
Jujube Fruit Powder
Synonyms:
- Ziziphus jujuba
- Chinese date powder
A ground version of jujube fruit, often used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a nutritional supplement.
Jointed Goatgrass
Synonyms:
- Aegilops cylindrica
A type of grass weed that is common in wheat and other cereal crops.
Japonica Rice
Synonyms:
- Short-grain rice
- Sushi rice
A type of short-grain rice that is commonly used in sushi and other Japanese dishes.
Jibneh Arabieh
Synonyms:
- Arabic cheese
- Lebanese cheese
A type of soft, white cheese commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Jockey Stick
Synonyms:
- Irrigation stick
- Water flow regulator
A tool used in irrigation systems to regulate the flow of water.
Jobber
Synonyms:
- Agricultural middleman
- Farm product distributor
A middleman who buys agricultural products from farmers and sells them to retailers or processors.
Jungle Rice
Synonyms:
- Wild rice
- Aromatic rice
A type of wild rice that grows in marshy areas of Asia.
Juncus
Synonyms:
- Rushes
- Bulrushes
- Sedges
A type of grass-like plant that is often used for wetland restoration and erosion control.
Jointed Rush
Synonyms:
- Knotted Rush
- Hard-stemmed Bulrush
A type of aquatic plant that grows in wetland areas and is often used for ornamental purposes.
Jatropha Oil
Synonyms:
- Physic Nut Oil
- Barbados Nut Oil
An oil that is extracted from the seeds of the jatropha plant and can be used as a biofuel.
Johnsongrass
Synonyms:
- Sorghum halepense
- Aleppo grass
A type of tall, perennial grass that is often considered a weed due to its aggressive growth and ability to outcompete other plants.
Jersey Cow
Synonyms:
- Jersey
A breed of dairy cow known for its high milk production and distinctive brown and white coloration.
Joint Venture
Synonyms:
- Partnership
- Collaboration
- Cooperation
A business arrangement in which two or more parties agree to pool resources and expertise for a specific project or venture.
Jatropha
Synonyms:
- Physic nut
- Barbados nut
A genus of flowering plants that is used to produce biodiesel.
Johnson Grass
Synonyms:
- Sorghum halepense
- Aleppo grass
A tall, invasive grass species that can reduce crop yields and compete with native plants.
Juvenile Hormone
Synonyms:
- JH
- Insect growth regulator
A hormone that regulates insect development and metamorphosis.
Jasmine
Synonyms:
- Jasminum
- Sweet-scented jessamine
A fragrant flower often used for perfumes, teas, and essential oils.
Jelly Palm
Synonyms:
- Butia capitata
- Pindo palm
A species of palm tree that produces fruit with a gelatinous texture.
Jute
Synonyms:
- Corchorus olitorius
- White jute
A fiber plant used for making burlap and other coarse fabrics.
Jacaranda
Synonyms:
- Jacaranda mimosifolia
- Blue jacaranda
A flowering tree with purple or blue flowers.
Jacobsen Salt
Synonyms:
- Hand-harvested salt
- Gourmet salt
A brand of artisanal sea salt produced in Oregon.
Jerusalem Artichoke
Synonyms:
- Helianthus tuberosus
- Sunchoke
A species of sunflower that produces edible tubers.
Japanese Beetle
Synonyms:
- Popillia japonica
- White-spotted beetle
A pest insect that feeds on a wide range of plants.
Jointed Goatgrass
Synonyms:
- Aegilops cylindrica
- Wild wheatgrass
An invasive weed species that can reduce crop yields and compete with native plants.
Jumpseed
Synonyms:
- Polygonum virginianum
- Virginia knotweed
A species of plant in the smartweed family that is often used in landscaping.
Johne’s Disease
Synonyms:
- Paratuberculosis
- Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis infection
A chronic bacterial infection that affects cattle, sheep, and other ruminants.
Jet Sprayer
Synonyms:
- Water jet sprayer
- Water cannon
A type of irrigation system that uses high-pressure water to distribute water to crops.
Jimsonweed
Synonyms:
- Datura stramonium
- Thorn apple
A poisonous plant species that can be toxic to humans and livestock.
Juniper
Synonyms:
- Juniperus
- Cedar
A type of evergreen tree or shrub with needle-like leaves and berries.
Juglone
Synonyms:
A natural toxin produced by walnut trees and some other plants that can inhibit the growth of other plants in their vicinity.
Juvenility
Synonyms:
The state of being young and not yet fully mature, often used to describe plants in their early growth stages.
Juice extraction
Synonyms:
The process of obtaining liquid from plant materials such as fruits and vegetables, often for use in making juice or other products.
Jam
Synonyms:
A sweet spread made from cooked fruit and sugar, often used as a topping for bread and pastries.
Jute bags
Synonyms:
- Burlap bags
- Hessian bags
- Gunny bags
A type of bag made from the fibers of the jute plant, often used for carrying agricultural products or other goods.
Jacquard weaving
Synonyms:
- Woven Jacquard
- Jacquard loom weaving
A method of weaving intricate designs into fabric using a special loom that controls the movement of individual threads.
Jacalin
Synonyms:
- Artocarpin
A plant lectin with potential applications in biotechnology and medicine.
K
Kelp
Synonyms:
- Seaweed
- Wrack
- Tangle
A large brown algae found in cool waters that can be used as a fertilizer.
Kettle
Synonyms:
- Pothole
- Basin
- Hollow
A depression in the land surface formed by glaciers, used for water collection in agriculture.
Khaki Campbell
Synonyms:
- Campbell duck
A breed of domesticated duck primarily used for egg production.
Kikuyu grass
Synonyms:
- African grass
- Love grass
- Quick grass
A warm-season grass commonly used in lawns and pastures in Africa and Australia.
Kill crop
Synonyms:
- Trap crop
- Sacrificial crop
A crop planted solely for the purpose of being destroyed in order to control pests or diseases.
Knapweed
Synonyms:
- Starthistles
- Hardheads
- Spanish-buttons
A group of thistle-like plants with purple or pink flowers that can be invasive and harmful to livestock.
Knapsack sprayer
Synonyms:
- Backpack sprayer
- Manual sprayer
A portable device used to spray pesticides or herbicides on crops.
Knocking off
Synonyms:
- Thinning
- Dropping fruit
The removal of fruit or flowers from a tree or plant in order to increase the size or quality of remaining fruit.
Kolkhoz
Synonyms:
- Collective farm
- Sovkhoz
A type of collective farm system used in the former Soviet Union and other socialist countries.
Kudzu
Synonyms:
- Japanese arrowroot
- Kuzu
A climbing vine originally from East Asia that is invasive in many parts of the world.
Kumquat
Synonyms:
- Chinese orange
- Golden orange
- Calamondin
A small citrus fruit with a sweet edible rind and sour pulp.
Kura clover
Synonyms:
- Caucasian clover
- Turkish clover
- Short-lived clover
A type of clover commonly used in forage production and soil improvement.
Kuroiler
Synonyms:
- Dual-purpose breed
- Indigenous chicken
- improved indigenous chicken
A breed of chicken developed in India for meat and egg production.
Kutki
Synonyms:
- Picrorhiza kurroa
- Kutkin
- Kutaki
A plant species used in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties.
Kabuli chickpeas
Synonyms:
- Garbanzo beans
- Ceci beans
A type of chickpea with large, beige-colored seeds commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Kaffir lime
Synonyms:
- Makrut lime
- Thai lime
A type of lime commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine for its distinct flavor.
Kale
Synonyms:
- Borecole
- Collard greens
A leafy green vegetable high in vitamins and antioxidants.
Kalmia
Synonyms:
- Mountain laurel
- Calico bush
A group of evergreen shrubs or small trees with showy flowers, commonly used in landscaping.
Kamut
Synonyms:
- Khorasan wheat
- Pharaoh grain
A type of ancient wheat with large kernels and a high protein content.
Kharif crops
Synonyms:
- Monsoon crops
- Rainy season crops
Crops that are sown during the monsoon season and harvested in the winter season.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra
Synonyms:
- Agriculture Science Center
- Farm Science Center
An Agricultural Science Center that provides training and extension services to farmers.
Krishi Mahotsav
Synonyms:
- Farm festival
- Agriculture fair
An agricultural festival organized to promote awareness and adoption of new agricultural practices.
Kisan
Synonyms:
- Farmer
- Agriculturist
A farmer who cultivates crops or rears livestock for a living.
Khet
Synonyms:
- Farmland
- Field
A piece of land used for agricultural purposes.
Kisan Call Center
Synonyms:
- Farmer Helpline
- Agriculture Helpline
A helpline for farmers that provides them with information and advice related to agriculture.
Kisan Credit Card
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s credit card
- Agriculture credit card
A credit card designed for farmers that allows them to access credit for agricultural purposes.
Kisan Diwas
Synonyms:
- Agriculture Day
- Farmer Appreciation Day
Farmer’s Day is celebrated on 23rd December every year to recognize the role of farmers in the country’s economy.
Kisan Vikas Patra
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s investment plan
- Agriculture savings plan
A government saving scheme that helps farmers invest their money and earn interest.
Kharif season
Synonyms:
- Monsoon season
- Rainy season
The period of the year during which Kharif crops are grown, typically between June to October.
Kisan Mandi
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s market
- Agricultural market
A marketplace where farmers can sell their produce directly to consumers, eliminating middlemen.
Kisan Credit Scheme
Synonyms:
- Farmer credit scheme
- Agriculture credit scheme
A government scheme that provides low-interest credit to farmers for agricultural purposes.
Kisan Rail
Synonyms:
- Farmer train
- Agricultural transport
A special train service for transporting agricultural produce from one part of the country to another.
Kharif crops
Synonyms:
- Monsoon crops
- Rainy season crops
Crops that are sown during the monsoon season and harvested in the winter season.
Kisan Samman Nidhi
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s welfare scheme
- Agricultural assistance scheme
A government scheme that provides financial assistance to farmers in India.
Kisan Sabha
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s union
- Agricultural association
An organization that works for the welfare of farmers in India.
Kisan Suvidha Kendra
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s service center
- Agricultural assistance center
A one-stop-shop for farmers where they can get information and assistance related to various agricultural activities.
Kisan Gyanodaya
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s training program
- Agricultural education
A training program organized by the government for farmers to help them acquire knowledge and skills related to modern farming techniques.
Kisan Krishak Jyoti Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer solar scheme
- Agricultural solar scheme
A government scheme that aims to provide solar-powered irrigation pumps to farmers.
Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
Synonyms:
- Farmer solar energy scheme
- Agricultural solar energy scheme
A government scheme that aims to promote the use of solar energy in the agriculture sector.
Kisan Sabha
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s union
- Agricultural association
A national organization of farmers that works for their rights and welfare in India.
Kisan Credit Card Scheme
Synonyms:
- Farmer credit card scheme
- Agricultural credit card scheme
A government scheme that provides credit facilities to farmers to meet their short-term credit requirements.
Kisan Rath
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s refrigerated truck
- Agricultural mobile cold storage
A mobile cold storage facility that allows farmers to transport perishable goods over long distances.
Kisan Vikas Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer development scheme
- Agricultural growth scheme
A government scheme that aims to promote sustainable agriculture and increase the income of farmers.
Kisan Mandi Parishad
Synonyms:
- Agricultural market council
- Farmer’s market governing body
A council that regulates the functioning of farmer’s markets in India.
Kisan Mela
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s fair
- Agriculture expo
An agricultural fair that aims to promote new technologies and practices among farmers.
Kisan TV
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s channel
- Agricultural TV
A television channel dedicated to agriculture and rural development in India.
Kisan Suryodaya Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer solar irrigation scheme
- Agricultural solar irrigation scheme
A government scheme that aims to provide solar-powered pumps to farmers for irrigation.
Kisan Mahapanchayat
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s conference
- Agricultural summit
A large gathering of farmers to discuss and raise issues related to agriculture and farming.
Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahaabhiyan
Synonyms:
- Farmer solar power scheme
- Agricultural solar power scheme
A government scheme that aims to provide financial assistance to farmers for setting up solar power plants.
Kisan Samman Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s respect scheme
- Agricultural honor scheme
A government scheme that provides financial assistance to small and marginal farmers in India.
Kisan Urja Suraksha Utthan Mahabhiyan
Synonyms:
- Farmer solar energy promotion scheme
- Agricultural solar energy promotion scheme
A government scheme that aims to promote the use of solar power in the agriculture sector.
Kisan Pragati Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer Progress Scheme
- Agricultural Development Scheme
A government scheme that aims to provide financial assistance and training to farmers to adopt modern farming techniques.
Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahaabhiyan
Synonyms:
- Farmer Solar Power Scheme
- Agricultural Solar Power Scheme
A government scheme that aims to promote the use of solar power in the agriculture sector.
Kisan Srinidhi Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s Wealth Scheme
- Agricultural Prosperity Scheme
A government scheme that provides farmers with access to credit at low-interest rates.
Kisan Seva Kendra
Synonyms:
- Farmer Service Center
- Agricultural Assistance Center
A government-run center that provides a range of services to farmers, including soil testing, seed distribution, and training.
Kisan Kalyan Mission
Synonyms:
- Farmer Welfare Mission
- Agricultural Prosperity Mission
A government initiative that aims to double farmers’ income by 2022.
Kisan Suvidha App
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s Assistance App
- Agricultural Aid App
A mobile application that provides farmers with information on weather, market prices, and government schemes.
Kisan Bazars
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s market
- Agricultural bazaar
A chain of markets that provides farmers with a platform to sell their produce directly to consumers.
Kisan Manch
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s forum
- Agricultural debate platform
A platform that brings together farmers, scientists, and policymakers to discuss issues related to agriculture and farming.
Kisan Suvidha Loan
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s assistance loan
- Agricultural credit
A loan designed specifically for farmers to meet their agricultural needs.
Kisan Sabha Bhawan
Synonyms:
- Ajoy Bhavan
The headquarters of the All India Kisan Sabha.
Kisan Credit Card
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s credit card
- Agricultural loan card
A credit card specifically designed for farmers that provides access to credit at low-interest rates.
Kisan Rail
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s railway service
- Agricultural transportation
A special train service launched by the government to transport perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products from one state to another.
Kisan Gyan Uday
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s knowledge app
- Agricultural education app
A mobile application launched by the government that provides farmers with information on various aspects of agriculture and farming.
Kisan Choupal
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s meeting
- Agricultural forum
A gathering of farmers in a village to discuss and exchange knowledge about agriculture and farming practices.
Kisan Pradarshan
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s exhibition
- Agricultural show
A demonstration of new agricultural technologies and practices to farmers in order to promote their adoption.
Kisan Bhawan
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s hostel
- Agricultural lodge
A building designed for the accommodation and welfare of farmers, especially those visiting from other parts of the country.
Kisan Bazari
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s bazaar
- Agricultural marketplace
A government initiative that aims to provide a direct market link to farmers, allowing them to sell their produce directly to consumers.
Kisan Swaraj Abhiyan
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s self-rule campaign
- Agricultural sovereignty movement
A movement launched by farmers to demand fair prices for their produce and to protest against policies that hurt their interests.
Kisan Bima Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s insurance scheme
- Agricultural risk management scheme
A government scheme that provides insurance coverage to farmers against crop failure, natural disasters, and other risks.
Kisan Suvidha Kendra
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s assistance center
- Agricultural service center
A government-run center that provides farmers with access to various services, including market information, soil testing, and training.
Kisan Mitra Yojana
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s friend scheme
- Agricultural assistance scheme
A government scheme that aims to provide support and assistance to farmers in distress, including counseling and financial aid.
Kisan Samadhan
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s resolution
- Agricultural problem-solving platform
An online portal launched by the government that allows farmers to register their grievances and seek redressal.
Kisan Sahayata Kendra
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s assistance center
- Agricultural aid center
A center set up by the government to provide farmers with information on various government schemes, market prices, and other agricultural-related services.
Kisan Vidyapeeth
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s university
- Agricultural college
An educational institution that offers courses and training programs in agriculture and related fields.
Kisan Hatt
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s market
- Agricultural fair
A marketplace where farmers can sell their produce directly to consumers.
Kisan Panchayat
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s council
- Agricultural forum
A meeting of farmers in a village or region to discuss and resolve issues related to agriculture and farming practices.
Kisan Seva Kendra
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s assistance center
- Agricultural service center
A government-run center that provides farmers with access to various services, including market information, soil testing, and training.
Kisan Sampark
Synonyms:
- Farmer’s connect
- Agricultural outreach program
A program launched by the government to connect & help farmers with the latest agricultural technologies and practices.
L
Legume
Synonyms:
- Bean
- Pea
- Lentil
- Chickpea
A plant in the family Fabaceae, with seeds that grow in pods, often used as a cover crop or for livestock feed.
Lactation
Synonyms:
- Milking
- Nursing
The period of milk production in a dairy animal, such as a cow or goat.
Livestock
Synonyms:
- Farm animals
- Cattle
- Livestock
Domesticated animals raised for meat, milk, eggs, wool, or other products.
Landrace
Synonyms:
- Indigenous variety
- Local breed
A local variety of a crop or animal breed that has adapted to the local environment over time.
Land use
Synonyms:
- Land management
- Land planning
The management and modification of natural landscapes for human activities, such as agriculture, forestry, or urban development.
Lateral roots
Synonyms:
- Side roots
- Secondary roots
Roots that grow horizontally from the main root of a plant, often used to absorb nutrients and water from a wider area of soil.
Lawn
Synonyms:
- turf
- meadow
A stretch of grassy ground, often used for recreational or ornamental purposes.
Leaf
Synonyms:
- foliage
- frond
The flattened, usually green part of a plant that is attached to a stem or branch, often used for photosynthesis.
Leghorn
Synonyms:
- Leghorn chicken
- white leghorn
A breed of chicken that is popular for egg production, known for their small size and white eggs.
Levee
Synonyms:
- dike
- embankment
A raised embankment that is built along a river or other body of water to prevent flooding, often used in agriculture to protect crops.
Lime
Synonyms:
- agricultural lime
- calcium carbonate
A soil amendment used to increase the pH of acidic soils, often in the form of calcium carbonate.
Liming
Synonyms:
- soil liming
- pH adjustment
The process of applying lime to soil to raise the pH, often used to improve soil fertility.
Litter
Synonyms:
- Bedding
- Straw
The material used as bedding in animal housing, often made of straw, wood shavings, or other materials.
Loam
Synonyms:
- Fertile soil
- Topsoil
A type of soil that is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, often considered ideal for agriculture.
Loader
Synonyms:
- Loading machine
- Front-end loader
A machine used for loading materials, such as hay or manure, onto a truck or trailer.
Lobe
Synonyms:
- Leaf segment
- Leaflet
A division or segment of a leaf or other plant part, often used to describe the shape of a leaf.
Locomotion
Synonyms:
- Movement
- Mobility
The movement of animals from one place to another, often used to describe the movement of livestock on a farm.
Loin
Synonyms:
- Sirloin
- Tenderloin
The back part of an animal, often used as a cut of meat.
Long-day Plant
Synonyms:
- Day-neutral plant
- Short-day plant
A plant that requires a certain amount of daylight to flower, often used in agriculture to determine planting and harvesting schedules.
Lutein
Synonyms:
- Marigold extract
- Lutein esters
A carotenoid pigment found in many fruits and vegetables, often used as a feed supplement for poultry to improve egg yolk color.
Lysine
Synonyms:
- Lys
- 2,6-Diaminohexanoic acid
An essential amino acid that is often added to animal feed to improve protein quality.
Lactase
Synonyms:
- Lactase enzyme
- Lactose hydrolysis
An enzyme that breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk, often used in dairy processing to make lactose-free products.
Land Improvement
Synonyms:
- Land development
- Land reclamation
The process of improving land for agricultural purposes, often by clearing land, draining wet areas, or building irrigation systems.
Land Tenure
Synonyms:
- Land ownership
- Land management
The system of land ownership and use, often used to describe the legal or customary rights of farmers to use and manage land.
Landscape
Synonyms:
- Scenery
- Terrain
The natural or human-made features of a geographic area, often used in agriculture to describe the visual and aesthetic qualities of a farm or rural area.
Larva
Synonyms:
- Caterpillar
- Grub
The immature form of an insect, often used in agriculture to describe the stage of development of pests that can damage crops.
Lateral Move Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Linear Move Irrigation
- Lateral Move Sprinkler
A type of irrigation system in which sprinkler heads move along a field on a track, delivering water to crops in a uniform pattern.
Leaching
Synonyms:
- Nutrient Loss
- Soil Erosion
The process of water carrying nutrients or other substances out of soil, often leading to nutrient depletion or pollution of nearby waterways.
Leguminous
Synonyms:
- Bean-like
- Pea-like
Of or relating to plants in the family Fabaceae, often used to describe crops or cover crops that are legumes.
Lentivirus
Synonyms:
- Lentiviral Infection
- Maedi-Visna
A type of virus that can infect livestock, often causing respiratory or reproductive problems.
Leptospirosis
Synonyms:
- Leptospiral infection
- Weil’s disease
A bacterial disease that can infect livestock and humans, often transmitted through contaminated water or soil.
Lethal Dose
Synonyms:
- LD50
- Toxic threshold
The amount of a substance that is lethal to a given organism, often used in agriculture to determine safe levels of pesticide use.
Lice
Synonyms:
- Louse
- Ectoparasite
Small, parasitic insects that can infest livestock, often causing skin irritation or other health problems.
Ligule
Synonyms:
- Leaf collar
- Sheath extension
A small, membranous structure on the leaf of a grass plant, often used in grass identification.
Lime Sulfur
Synonyms:
- Sulfur lime spray
- Bordeaux mixture
A type of pesticide or fungicide made from sulfur and lime, often used to control pests and diseases in orchards or vineyards.
Liming Rate
Synonyms:
- Lime application rate
- pH adjustment rate
The amount of lime applied to soil, often measured in pounds per acre or kilograms per hectare.
Lint
Synonyms:
- Cotton lint
- Cotton fiber
The fluffy fiber that surrounds cotton seeds, often used to make textiles.
Lipid
Synonyms:
- Fat
- Oil
A type of organic molecule that is important for energy storage and cell membrane structure, often found in animal feed or used as a feed supplement.
Livestock watering
Synonyms:
- Animal watering
- Water management
The process of providing water to livestock, often through ponds, streams, or troughs.
Loess
Synonyms:
- Silt
- Sediment
A type of wind-blown sediment that is rich in nutrients, often found in areas with fertile soils.
Locomotive
Synonyms:
- Train engine
- Locomotion device
A type of vehicle used for pulling trains, often used in agriculture to transport crops or livestock.
Luteotropin
Synonyms:
- Prolactin
- Lactogenic hormone
A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates milk production in lactating animals, often used in reproductive management of livestock.
Lysimeter
Synonyms:
- Soil water balance
- Lysimetry
A device used to measure the movement of water and nutrients through soil, often used in agricultural research.
Lagoon
Synonyms:
- Estuary
- Bayou
- Backwater
A lagoon is a shallow body of water separated from a larger body of water by a barrier, typically found along coastlines and connected to the open ocean through narrow channels. They can be freshwater or saltwater and support a variety of aquatic life.
M
Maize
Synonyms:
- Corn
- Indian corn
A cereal crop that is commonly used for human and animal consumption, and has a wide range of industrial applications.
Manure
Synonyms:
- Fertilizer
- Compost
Animal waste that is used as a fertilizer to improve soil quality and increase crop productivity.
Milking
Synonyms:
- Milking process
- Dairy farming
The process of extracting milk from lactating animals, typically cows, for human consumption or industrial purposes.
Mulch
Synonyms:
- Ground cover
- Protective cover
A layer of organic or inorganic material, such as straw, leaves, or plastic, that is spread over the soil surface to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
Moisture
Synonyms:
- Humidity
- Dampness
The amount of water present in the soil or the air, which is a crucial factor in plant growth and development.
Market gardening
Synonyms:
- Horticulture
- Truck farming
The production of high-value crops, such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers, for sale in local markets or to restaurants, supermarkets, and other food outlets.
Mechanization
Synonyms:
- Automation
- Mechanized farming
The use of machines and equipment to perform agricultural tasks.
Muck
Synonyms:
- Compost
- Humus
Rich, dark soil that is formed from decomposed organic matter.
Mustard
Synonyms:
- Brassica
- Mustard greens
A plant that is cultivated for its seeds, which are used to make mustard condiment.
Microclimate
Synonyms:
- Local climate
- Micro-environment
The climate of a small area, such as a garden or a field.
Milkweed
Synonyms:
- Asclepias
- Butterfly weed
A plant that is grown for its nectar and is a major source of food for monarch butterflies.
Mite
Synonyms:
- Acari
- Ticks
A tiny arachnid that can cause damage to crops and plants.
Meat packing
Synonyms:
- Meat processing
- Slaughterhouse
The processing of meat, such as slaughtering, cutting, and packaging.
Mycology
Synonyms:
- Fungal biology
- Mycological research
The study of fungi and their role in agriculture.
Maturity
Synonyms:
- Ripeness
- Harvest readiness
The point at which a crop or plant is fully grown and ready to be harvested.
Moldboard plow
Synonyms:
- Plow
- Mouldboard
A type of plow that is used to turn over the soil and bury weeds and crop residues.
Marbling
Synonyms:
- Fat distribution
- Meat texture
The pattern of fat that is found in meat, which affects its flavor and tenderness.
Monoculture
Synonyms:
- Single crop
- Monocropping
The practice of growing a single crop on a large scale.
Migrant labor
Synonyms:
- Seasonal labor
- Migrant workers
Temporary workers who move from one agricultural job to another.
Moisture stress
Synonyms:
- Water stress
- Drought stress
A condition in which a plant does not receive enough water to meet its needs.
Milk production
Synonyms:
- Dairy farming
- Milk yield
The process of producing milk from lactating animals.
Mottle
Synonyms:
- Spotted
- Blotchy
A pattern of uneven color on a plant, which can indicate disease or nutrient deficiency.
Meadow
Synonyms:
- Pasture
- Grassland
A grassy field that is used for grazing livestock or harvesting hay.
Miticide
Synonyms:
- Acaricide
- Tick killer
A substance that is used to control mites.
Mulberry
Synonyms:
- Morus
A tree that is grown for its fruit, which is used to make jams, jellies, and wine.
Mycorrhiza
Synonyms:
- Fungal symbiosis
- Root fungus
A mutually beneficial relationship between a fungus and plant roots, in which the fungus helps the plant absorb nutrients and water from the soil, and the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates.
Macro-nutrients
Synonyms:
- Primary nutrients
- Major elements
Essential nutrients required in large amounts by plants for growth and development, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Micro-nutrients
Synonyms:
- Trace elements
- Minor elements
Essential nutrients required in small amounts by plants for growth and development, including iron, zinc, and manganese.
Monoculture
Synonyms:
- Single-crop farming
- Monocropping
A farming system in which only one crop is grown on a large scale, often leading to soil depletion, pest problems, and loss of biodiversity.
Macrofauna
Synonyms:
- Soil animals
- Soil macroinvertebrates
The larger soil-dwelling organisms, such as earthworms, that play important roles in soil structure and nutrient cycling.
Magnesium
Synonyms:
- Mg
- Epsom salt
A mineral essential for plant growth and development, often used in fertilizer applications.
Magnetometer
Synonyms:
- Magnetic sensor
- Magnetometer probe
A device used to measure the strength and direction of magnetic fields, often used in agricultural research to study soil properties.
Maturity
Synonyms:
- Ripeness
- Harvest readiness
The stage of growth and development when a crop is ready for harvest or when seeds are ready for processing or storage.
Mealybug
Synonyms:
- Scale insect
- Aphid
A small, soft-bodied insect that feeds on plant sap and can damage crops, often controlled through natural predators or insecticides.
Melon
Synonyms:
- Cucumis melo
- Cucurbitaceae
A type of fruiting plant that includes several species, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew, commonly grown for their sweet and juicy flesh.
Microbial
Synonyms:
- Microbial community
- Microbiota
Relating to microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, that can be beneficial or harmful to plant growth and health.
Millet
Synonyms:
- Pearl millet
- Finger millet
A group of cereal crops with small, nutritious grains, commonly grown in arid or semi-arid regions for human or animal consumption.
Mustard
Synonyms:
- Brassica
- Sinapis
A group of flowering plants with pungent seeds or leaves, commonly used as a spice or vegetable and grown as a cover crop or green manure in agriculture.
Mycotoxin
Synonyms:
- Fungal toxin
- Aflatoxin
A toxic compound produced by certain types of fungi that can contaminate crops and pose health risks to humans or animals.
Mole
Synonyms:
- Talpa europaea
- Insectivore
A small, burrowing mammal that can damage crops or soil structure, often controlled through traps or repellents.
Moisture Content
Synonyms:
- Water Content
- Dry Matter Content
The amount of water present in a crop or soil sample, often measured as a percentage of the sample’s weight.
Market Garden
Synonyms:
- Truck Farming
- Market Farming
A type of small-scale farming that produces high-value crops, such as fruits and vegetables, for local markets or restaurants.
Meat
Synonyms:
- Pork
- Chicken
- Mutton
- Flesh
The flesh of animals that is used for human consumption, typically obtained from cattle, pigs, or poultry.
Management
Synonyms:
- Administration
- Leadership
- Supervision
The process of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling resources (people, finances, materials) to achieve organizational goals and objectives effectively and efficiently.
Milch Animal
Synonyms:
- Dairy Animal
- Milking Animal
- Lactating Animal
An animal, typically a cow, goat, or sheep, that is raised for the production of milk, which can be used for human consumption or to make dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.
Marigold
Synonyms:
- Tagetes
- Calendula
A group of flowering plants with bright yellow or orange blooms, commonly grown as ornamental plants or companion plants in vegetable gardens for their pest-repelling properties.
Mineralization
Synonyms:
- Mineral nutrient release
- Decomposition
The process by which organic matter in the soil is decomposed by soil microorganisms into inorganic forms of nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur, that are available for plant uptake.
Mulching film
Synonyms:
- Plastic mulch
- Agricultural film
- Ground cover
- Weed barrier
A thin plastic film used as a mulch to regulate soil temperature, conserve moisture, and control weed growth.
Metam sodium
Synonyms:
- Metam potassium
- Metham sodium
- Soil sterilant
- Soil disinfectant
A soil fumigant used to control soil-borne pests and diseases, often applied before planting or after harvest.
Mechanical weeding
Synonyms:
- Manual weeding
- Hand weeding
- Tillage weeding
- Inter-row cultivation
A weed control method that involves using mechanical devices, such as hoes or cultivators, to physically remove weeds from the soil.
Megafauna
Synonyms:
- Megaherbivores
- Megapredators
- Large vertebrates
- Big game
A group of large or giant animals, typically weighing over 44 kilograms (97 pounds), that can have significant impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Metabolism
Synonyms:
- Metabolic rate
- Energy expenditure
- Bioenergetics
- Nutrient processing
The chemical processes by which organisms convert nutrients into energy, build and maintain tissues, and eliminate waste products.
Mutation
Synonyms:
- Genetic variation
- Genetic mutation
- Genetic alteration
- Genetic modification
A change in the DNA sequence of a gene or chromosome that can alter an organism’s traits or characteristics, either beneficial or detrimental.
N
Nematodes
Synonyms:
- Roundworms
- Eelworms
Worm-like microscopic organisms that can damage plant roots.
Nitrate
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen oxide
- NO3-
A chemical compound that is a source of nitrogen for plants.
Nitrogen
Synonyms:
- N
- Azote
A gas essential for plant growth and found in the atmosphere.
Nodule
Synonyms:
- Tubercle
- Bump
A swelling on the roots of leguminous plants that contains nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
Non-renewable resources
Synonyms:
- Finite resources
- Exhaustible resources
Resources that are finite and cannot be replaced once used up.
Non-selective herbicide
Synonyms:
- Total herbicide
- Broad-spectrum herbicide
A type of herbicide that kills all plants it comes into contact with.
Nursery
Synonyms:
- Plant nursery
- Greenhouse
A place where young plants are grown for sale or transplantation.
Nutrient
Synonyms:
- Fertilizer
- Plant food
A substance that is essential for plant growth and development.
Nutrient cycle
Synonyms:
- Nutrient recycling
- Nutrient flow
The process by which nutrients are cycled through the environment, from soil to plants to animals and back to the soil.
Nutrient deficiency
Synonyms:
- Nutrient insufficiency
- Nutrient deprivation
A condition in which a plant does not receive enough of a particular nutrient.
Nutrient management
Synonyms:
The practice of optimizing nutrient use in agriculture to improve crop yield and minimize environmental impact.
Nutrient uptake
Synonyms:
The process by which plants absorb nutrients from the soil.
Nutrient-rich
Synonyms:
A term used to describe soil or fertilizer that contains a high concentration of essential nutrients.
Niche
Synonyms:
The role a plant or animal plays in its environment.
No-till farming
Synonyms:
- Zero-tillage farming
- Direct planting
A method of farming that involves planting crops without disturbing the soil.
Noxious weed
Synonyms:
- Invasive weed
- Harmful weed
A plant that is harmful to the environment or human health.
Nut grass
Synonyms:
- Nut sedge
- Cyperus rotundus
A type of grass that is difficult to control and can become invasive.
National Organic Program
Synonyms:
- NOP
- Organic certification program
A federal program that regulates the production, processing, and labeling of organic products.
Non-GMO
Synonyms:
- Non-genetically modified
- Non-transgenic
A term used to describe crops or products that have not been genetically modified.
Natural fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Organic fertilizer
- Compost
A type of fertilizer made from organic materials such as compost or manure.
Natural pest control
Synonyms:
- Biological pest control
- Integrated pest management
A method of pest control that uses natural predators, parasites, or repellents to control pests.
Natural resource
Synonyms:
- Environmental resource
- Renewable resource
A resource that occurs naturally in the environment, such as water, soil, or minerals.
Nitrogen cycle
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen recycling
- Nitrogen flow
The process by which nitrogen is cycled through the environment, from the atmosphere to the soil to living organisms and back to the atmosphere.
Nitrogen fixation
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen assimilation
- Nitrogen reduction
The process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use.
Nitrogenous fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen fertilizer
- N fertilizer
A type of fertilizer that contains nitrogen, used to promote plant growth.
Nutrient balance
Synonyms:
- Nutrient equilibrium
- Nutrient homeostasis
The balance between the nutrients that are taken up by plants and the nutrients that are removed from the soil.
Nutrient cycling
Synonyms:
- Nutrient flow
- Nutrient turnover
The movement of nutrients through different parts of an ecosystem, including the soil, plants, and animals.
Nutrient Management Plan
Synonyms:
- Nutrient Management Strategy
- Nutrient Utilization Plan
A plan that outlines how nutrients will be managed on a farm to optimize crop growth and minimize environmental impact.
Nutrient Solution
Synonyms:
- Hydroponic Solution
- Plant Nutrient Solution
A solution containing all of the essential nutrients required for plant growth, used in hydroponic systems.
Nitrogenous Compound
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen Compound
- Azo Compound
A chemical compound containing nitrogen, often used as a fertilizer.
NPK
Synonyms:
- Macronutrients
- Essential Elements
An acronym for the three essential macronutrients required for plant growth: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Niche Market
Synonyms:
- Specialized Market
- Targeted Market
A market that caters to a specific, specialized segment of the population.
Nitrate Leaching
Synonyms:
- Nitrate Runoff
- Nitrogen Leaching
The process by which nitrates are washed out of the soil by rainfall or irrigation water.
Non-native species
Synonyms:
- Exotic species
- Invasive species
A species that has been introduced to an ecosystem where it is not native.
Natural selection
Synonyms:
- Survival of the fittest
- Adaptation
The process by which organisms that are best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Nematicide
Synonyms:
- Roundwormicide
- Eelwormicide
A pesticide that is used to control nematodes.
Nitrogen oxide
Synonyms:
- NOx
- Nitrogen dioxide
A compound that contains nitrogen and oxygen, often produced by combustion processes.
Nitrogen assimilation
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen fixation
- Nitrogen uptake
The process by which plants incorporate nitrogen into their tissues.
Nitrogen mineralization
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen immobilization
- Nitrogen transformation
The process by which organic nitrogen is converted into inorganic nitrogen that can be taken up by plants.
Nitrogen saturation
Synonyms:
- Excess nitrogen
- Nitrogen overload
A condition in which the soil contains more nitrogen than is required by plants, leading to environmental problems. .
Nutrient Density
Synonyms:
- Nutrient Richness
- Nutrient Concentration
A measure of the nutrient content of a food or soil relative to its calorie content.
Nutrient Solution Culture
Synonyms:
- Solution Culture
- Water Culture
A hydroponic method of growing plants in which the roots are suspended in a nutrient solution.
Niche Farming
Synonyms:
- Specialized Farming
- Boutique Farming
A type of farming that specializes in producing a particular crop or product for a specific market.
Nutrient Retention
Synonyms:
- Nutrient Holding Capacity
- Nutrient Storage
The ability of soil to retain nutrients and prevent them from leaching out.
Nitrogen Balance
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen Equilibrium
- Nitrogen Homeostasis
The balance between the amount of nitrogen taken up by plants and the amount lost through leaching or other processes.
Nutrient-Poor
Synonyms:
- Nutrient-Deficient
- Nutrient-Depleted
A term used to describe soil or fertilizer that contains a low concentration of essential nutrients.
Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen-Fixing Microorganisms
- rhizobia
- nitrogen-fixing bacteria
Bacteria that are capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use.
Nitrogenase
Synonyms:
- nitrogen-fixing enzyme
- dinitrogenase
An enzyme produced by nitrogen-fixing bacteria that is responsible for converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form.
Non-renewable resource
Synonyms:
- finite resource
- exhaustible resource
A resource that cannot be replaced or regenerated in a reasonable amount of time.
Natural resource management
Synonyms:
- resource conservation
- environmental management
The management of natural resources, such as water, soil, and wildlife, to ensure their sustainability and optimal use.
No-till farming
Synonyms:
- zero-till farming
- direct seeding
A method of farming in which crops are planted without tilling the soil, reducing erosion and improving soil health.
Nutrient deficiency
Synonyms:
- Nutrient insufficiency
- Nutrient deprivation
A condition in which plants or animals do not receive enough essential nutrients, leading to stunted growth and other problems.
Nitrogen uptake
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen assimilation
- Nitrogen absorption
The process by which plants absorb nitrogen from the soil.
Non-point source pollution
Synonyms:
- Diffuse pollution
- Runoff pollution
Pollution that comes from multiple, diffuse sources, such as agricultural runoff, rather than from a single, identifiable point.
Nutrient cycling rate
Synonyms:
- Nutrient turnover rate
- Nutrient flux
The rate at which nutrients move through an ecosystem, including the soil, plants, and animals.
Nutrient application rate
Synonyms:
- Fertilizer rate
- Nutrient rate
The rate at which fertilizer or other nutrients are applied to crops or soil.
Natural fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Organic fertilizer
- Natural amendment
A type of fertilizer made from natural sources, such as animal manure or compost.
Nitrogen cycle
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen pathway
- Nitrogen loop
The process by which nitrogen moves through the environment, including fixation, mineralization, assimilation, and denitrification.
O
Oat
Synonyms:
- Avena sativa
A cereal plant grown for its edible seeds.
Ochre
Synonyms:
- Ocher
A pigment made from clay and used as a colorant for soil.
Oil palm
Synonyms:
- Elaeis guineensis
A tree cultivated in tropical regions for its fruit, which is used to make palm oil.
Okra
Synonyms:
- Abelmoschus esculentus
A plant grown for its edible seed pods.
Onion
Synonyms:
- Allium cepa
A bulbous plant used as a food and seasoning.
Organic
Synonyms:
- Natural
- Chemical-free
Relating to or derived from living matter.
Organic farming
Synonyms:
- Sustainable farming
A method of agriculture that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
Orchard
Synonyms:
- Fruit garden
A cultivated area of trees, typically fruit-bearing trees.
Ornamental plants
Synonyms:
- Decorative plants
Plants grown for their aesthetic value.
Osier
Synonyms:
- Salix viminalis
A type of willow tree used for weaving baskets and furniture.
Ostrich
Synonyms:
- Struthio camelus
A large flightless bird raised for meat, feathers, and leather.
Ovary
Synonyms:
- Pistil
The female reproductive organ in flowering plants that contains the ovules.
Overgrazing
Synonyms:
- Overstocking
The excessive grazing of livestock on an area of land.
Organic matter
Synonyms:
- Compost
The remains of dead organisms that are used as a soil amendment.
Ox
Synonyms:
- Bull
- Cow
A domesticated bovine used for plowing and hauling.
Oxen
Synonyms:
- Bulls
- Cows
Plural of “ox”.
Oxytocin
Synonyms:
- Love hormone
A hormone released during childbirth and nursing that promotes bonding.
Orchardist
Synonyms:
- Fruit grower
A person who cultivates and manages an orchard.
Overhead irrigation
Synonyms:
- Sprinkler irrigation
A method of irrigation in which water is sprayed onto crops from above.
Overhead costs
Synonyms:
- Indirect costs
Business expenses not directly related to the production of goods or services.
Open-pollinated
Synonyms:
- Non-hybrid
Plants that are pollinated by natural means, such as wind or insects.
Organic fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Natural fertilizer
A fertilizer derived from natural sources, such as compost or manure.
Organic food
Synonyms:
- Natural food
- Organically grown food
Food produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and other harmful chemicals. Organic farming methods also prioritize environmental sustainability and animal welfare.
Offal
Synonyms:
- Variety meat
- Organ meats
The internal organs of an animal, such as liver, heart, and kidneys, that are used as food. Offal is often considered a delicacy in certain cuisines.
Organic certification
Synonyms:
- Organic labeling
- Organic verification
The process of verifying that a product meets organic standards, such as those set by the USDA’s National Organic Program. Products that meet these standards can be labeled and sold as organic.
Omnivore
Synonyms:
- Carnivore and herbivore
An animal that eats both plants and animals. Humans are considered omnivores because they eat a diet that includes both meat and vegetables.
On-farm processing
Synonyms:
- Farm-to-table
- Farm processing
The processing of agricultural products on the farm where they are produced, as opposed to off-farm processing in a separate facility. This allows for greater control over the quality and freshness of the products.
On-farm storage
Synonyms:
- Farm storage
The storage of agricultural products on the farm where they are produced, as opposed to off-farm storage in a separate facility. This can help reduce transportation costs and increase efficiency.
Orchard floor management
Synonyms:
- Groundcover management
- Orchard floor cover
- Understory management
The management of vegetation and ground cover in an orchard.
Organic pest control
Synonyms:
- Natural pest control
- Non-chemical pest control
- Biological pest control
The use of natural methods to control pests in agriculture.
Oomycete
Synonyms:
- Water mold
- Phytophthora
- Saprolegniales
A fungus-like microorganism that can cause plant diseases.
Oospore
Synonyms:
- Sexual resting spore
- Sexual spore
- Oogonium
A thick-walled sexual spore of certain fungi and oomycetes.
Open-pollinated seed
Synonyms:
- Non-hybrid seed
- Heirloom seed
- Traditional seed
Seed produced by open-pollinated plants.
Orchard floor cover
Synonyms:
- Groundcover
Vegetation or other ground cover planted in an orchard to prevent erosion and provide habitat for beneficial insects.
Organic weed control
Synonyms:
- Natural weed management
The use of natural methods to control weeds in agriculture.
Organophosphate
Synonyms:
- OP
A class of pesticides that affect the nervous system of insects.
Overhead power lines
Synonyms:
- High voltage lines
Electrical lines suspended above the ground.
Overwintering
Synonyms:
- Hibernation
The process of surviving the winter by plants or animals.
Oxbow lake
Synonyms:
- Oxbow
A U-shaped body of water formed when a river changes course.
Oxidation
Synonyms:
- Rust
The process of combining with oxygen, often resulting in a change in color or texture.
Oxygen
Synonyms:
- O2
A gas necessary for respiration in plants and animals.
Ozone
Synonyms:
- O3
A molecule composed of three oxygen atoms that helps protect the earth from UV radiation.
Organic matter decomposition
Synonyms:
- Decomposition
The breakdown of organic matter into simpler compounds by microorganisms.
Optimum temperature
Synonyms:
- Ideal temperature
The temperature at which a plant or animal grows best.
Optimum pH
Synonyms:
- Ideal pH
The pH at which a plant or microorganism grows best.
Orchard canopy management
Synonyms:
- Tree training
The pruning and training of fruit trees to optimize fruit production and quality.
Orchard irrigation
Synonyms:
- Tree watering
The application of water to an orchard to maintain plant health and fruit quality.
Organic Mulch
Synonyms:
- Natural mulch
- Plant-based mulch
- Biodegradable mulch
A layer of organic material applied to the soil surface to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and improve soil health.
Overhead Crane
Synonyms:
- Bridge crane
- Single-girder crane
- Double-girder crane
A type of crane that is suspended from a beam and can move along a track, typically used for heavy lifting in industrial settings.
Outcrossing
Synonyms:
- Cross-pollination
- Outbreeding
- Hybridization
The process of mating individuals from different populations or varieties, which can increase genetic diversity and improve the health and adaptability of a population.
Outplanting
Synonyms:
- Transplanting
- Field planting
- Sapling planting
The process of transplanting seedlings or saplings from a nursery to a field or forest, typically to establish new growth or replace damaged or dead plants.
Overstock
Synonyms:
- Overcrowding
- Overpopulation
- Overabundance
The presence of too many animals in a given area, which can lead to reduced health, productivity, and welfare of the animals, as well as negative impacts on the environment and surrounding communities.
Off-site impacts
Synonyms:
- Externalities
- Indirect effects
- Spillover effects
The environmental or social impacts of agricultural practices beyond the boundaries of the farm.
Organic livestock
Synonyms:
- Natural livestock
- Non-synthetic livestock
Livestock raised without the use of synthetic hormones or antibiotics.
Organic matter content
Synonyms:
- Soil organic matter
- Organic carbon content
- Humus content
The percentage of organic matter in soil or compost.
Organic seed
Synonyms:
- Certified organic seed
- Natural seed
Seed produced by open-pollinated plants that are grown using organic methods.
Ornithology
Synonyms:
- Birdwatching
- Avian ecology
- Avian biology
The study of birds, including their behavior and ecology.
Ovule
Synonyms:
- Megaspore
- Female gametophyte
The female reproductive structure of a flowering plant that develops into a seed.
Oxidation pond
Synonyms:
- Lagoon
- Wastewater pond
A man-made pond used to treat wastewater by promoting the growth of microorganisms that break down organic matter.
Oyster Mushroom
Synonyms:
- Pleurotus ostreatus
A type of edible mushroom that is commonly cultivated and used in cuisine.
P
Perennial
Synonyms:
- Long-lived
- Enduring
A plant that lives for more than two years.
Pesticide
Synonyms:
- Insecticide
- Herbicide
A substance used to kill pests, such as insects or weeds.
Photosynthesis
Synonyms:
- Carbon fixation
- Photoassimilation
The process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugar and oxygen.
Plant breeding
Synonyms:
- Plant improvement
- Cultivar development
The process of selecting and crossing plants to develop new and improved varieties.
Plant disease
Synonyms:
- Plant pathology
- Phytopathology
A condition that affects the growth or health of a plant.
Plant growth regulator
Synonyms:
- Plant hormone
- Growth hormone
A chemical that alters the growth and development of plants.
Plant nutrition
Synonyms:
- Plant physiology
- Plant biochemistry
The study of how plants obtain and use nutrients.
Planting density
Synonyms:
- Plant spacing
- Plant density
The number of plants per unit area.
Planting Season
Synonyms:
- Planting Time
- Sowing Season
The time of year when crops are typically planted.
Plow
Synonyms:
- Plough
- Till
A farming tool used to turn over and loosen soil.
Point Source Pollution
Synonyms:
- Local Pollution
- Specific Pollution
Pollution that comes from a single, identifiable source, such as a factory or sewage treatment plant.
Pollination
Synonyms:
- Fertilization
- Cross-Pollination
The transfer of pollen from the male to the female reproductive organs of a plant.
Precision Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Site-Specific Farming
- Digital Farming
The use of technology to optimize crop yields and reduce waste.
Predation
Synonyms:
- Predation Pressure
- Predation Risk
The act of one organism killing and consuming another.
Preharvest Interval
Synonyms:
- PHI
- Spray Interval
The minimum amount of time that must elapse between the application of a pesticide and the harvest of the crop.
Pressure chamber
Synonyms:
- Pressure bomb
- Pressure chamber apparatus
A tool used to measure the water status of plants.
Protein
Synonyms:
- Amino acid
- Polypeptide
A complex organic molecule essential for the growth and repair of cells.
Pulse crop
Synonyms:
- Grain legume
- Edible bean
A type of legume grown for its seeds, such as lentils, chickpeas, and peas.
pH
Synonyms:
- Acidity level
- Alkalinity level
A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, such as soil or water.
Phosphorus
Synonyms:
- P
- Phosphate
A chemical element essential for plant growth and development.
Pheromone
Synonyms:
- Mating pheromone
- Sex pheromone
A chemical signal released by an organism to communicate with others of the same species.
Plant density
Synonyms:
- Planting density
- Stand density
The number of plants per unit area.
Planting Bed
Synonyms:
- Seedbed
- Nursery bed
An area of prepared soil where seeds or transplants are planted.
Plant Hormone
Synonyms:
- Plant Growth Regulator
- Phytohormone
A chemical that regulates plant growth and development.
Plant Spacing
Synonyms:
- Planting Density
- Stand Density
The distance between plants in a row or between rows.
Plasticulture
Synonyms:
- Plastic Agriculture
- Polyiculture
The use of plastic materials in agriculture, such as mulch film and drip irrigation tubing.
Postharvest Loss
Synonyms:
- Harvest Loss
- Storage Loss
The loss of crops after harvest, due to spoilage or damage.
Potassium
Synonyms:
- K
- Potash
A chemical element essential for plant growth and development.
Precision Planting
Synonyms:
- Seed Singulation
- Variable Rate Seeding
The use of technology to precisely plant seeds at optimal depths and spacing.
Predominant cropping
Synonyms:
- Monoculture
- Single cropping
The practice of growing a single crop species in a given area.
Preemergence herbicide
Synonyms:
- Residual herbicide
- Soil-applied herbicide
A type of herbicide applied to the soil before weed seeds germinate.
Preventive planting
Synonyms:
- Insurance planting
- Risk management planting
The practice of planting crops in anticipation of adverse weather conditions.
Productivity
Synonyms:
- Efficiency
- Yield
The amount of output produced per unit of input, such as land, labor, or capital.
Propagation
Synonyms:
- Reproduction
- Multiplication
The process of reproducing plants, either sexually or asexually.
Protein content
Synonyms:
- Protein concentration
- Protein level
The amount of protein in a given quantity of a food or feed product.
Pruning
Synonyms:
- Trimming
- Cutting back
The process of removing unwanted or excess plant parts, such as branches or buds.
Pulp
Synonyms:
- Flesh
- Mesocarp
The soft, fleshy part of a fruit or vegetable.
Purebred
Synonyms:
- Pedigreed
- Thoroughbred
An animal or plant that has a known ancestry and breed characteristics.
Pyrethrin
Synonyms:
- Pyrethrum
- Insect powder
A natural insecticide derived from the chrysanthemum flower.
Planting Depth
Synonyms:
- Seeding depth
- Sowing depth
The depth at which seeds are planted in the soil.
Plantation
Synonyms:
- Farm
- Estate
A large area of land where crops, such as trees or coffee, are grown for commercial purposes.
Polyculture
Synonyms:
- Intercropping
- Mixed cropping
The practice of growing multiple crop species in a given area.
Postemergence Herbicide
Synonyms:
- Contact herbicide
- Foliar herbicide
A type of herbicide applied to weeds after they have emerged from the soil.
Potting soil
Synonyms:
- Container mix
- Potting mix
A soil mixture used for growing plants in containers.
Precision irrigation
Synonyms:
- Smart irrigation
- Automated irrigation
The use of technology to deliver precise amounts of water to crops.
Producer
Synonyms:
- Farmer
- Grower
An individual or organization that grows or raises agricultural products for sale.
Product label
Synonyms:
- Label
- Product information
The information provided on a pesticide or fertilizer container, including usage instructions and safety precautions.
Professional agriculture
Synonyms:
- Scientific agriculture
- Modern agriculture
The application of scientific and technical knowledge to the practice of agriculture.
Propagule
Synonyms:
- Propagative material
- Vegetative propagule
A plant part used for propagation, such as a seed or cutting.
Protein supplement
Synonyms:
- Protein concentrate
- Protein meal
A feed product added to animal diets to increase protein intake.
Prill
Synonyms:
- Granule
- Bead
A small, round pellet of fertilizer.
Pulse irrigation
Synonyms:
- Drip irrigation
- Trickle irrigation
A type of irrigation where water is applied in short pulses to the soil.
Pure stand
Synonyms:
- Monoculture
A planting of a single crop species in a given area.
Pyrethroid
Synonyms:
- Pyrethroid insecticide
- Synthetic pyrethroid
A synthetic insecticide that mimics the natural insecticide pyrethrin.
Plant growth regulator
Synonyms:
- Growth hormone
- Plant hormone
A substance that is used to control or manipulate the growth and development of plants.
Plant tissue culture
Synonyms:
- Tissue culture
- Micropropagation
The practice of growing plants from small pieces of plant tissue in a laboratory setting.
Pollination
Synonyms:
- Fertilization
- Cross-pollination
The transfer of pollen from the male reproductive organ to the female reproductive organ of a plant.
Predatory Insect
Synonyms:
- Beneficial Insect
- Natural Enemy
An insect that feeds on other insects, helping to control pest populations and maintain ecological balance.
Producer Price Index
Synonyms:
- PPI
- Price Index
A measure of the average change in prices received by producers for their agricultural products.
Q
Quality assurance
Synonyms:
- QA
- Quality control
The process of ensuring that agricultural products meet certain quality standards.
Quadrat
Synonyms:
- Sampling frame
- Plot
A square or rectangular frame used in ecological research to sample vegetation or other features.
Quenching
Synonyms:
- Hardening
- Tempering
A process used to rapidly cool hot steel to make it stronger and more durable.
Quinoa
Synonyms:
- Chenopodium quinoa
- Andean grain
A grain-like crop that is grown for its edible seeds, native to South America seeds that are rich in protein and other nutrients.
Quarantine
Synonyms:
- Isolation
- Exclusion
The isolation of plants or animals to prevent the spread of pests or diseases.
Quantity surveying
Synonyms:
- Cost estimation
- Construction cost management
The practice of estimating and managing the cost of agricultural projects.
Quicklime
Synonyms:
- Calcium oxide
- Burnt lime
A type of lime used to modify soil pH and provide calcium and magnesium to crops.
Quotient
Synonyms:
- Ratio
- Fraction
A mathematical term used to express the ratio between two values.
Quince
Synonyms:
- Cydonia oblonga
- Golden apple
A fruit tree species that is commonly grown for its fruit and ornamental value.
Quadruple bottom line
Synonyms:
- 4BL
- Sustainability framework
A framework for sustainable agriculture that considers economic, social, environmental, and cultural factors.
QTL mapping
Synonyms:
- Quantitative trait locus mapping
- Genetic mapping
A statistical method used to identify regions of the genome that are associated with specific traits or characteristics in plants and animals.
Quality trait
Synonyms:
- Product attribute
- Quality factor
A measurable characteristic of an agricultural product that contributes to its overall quality.
Quicksand
Synonyms:
- Unstable soil
- Sinkhole
A type of soil that becomes unstable when disturbed, posing a hazard to farm animals and machinery.
Quorum sensing
Synonyms:
- Bacterial signaling
- Cell-to-cell communication
A process by which bacteria communicate and coordinate their behavior based on the density of their population.
Quiescent center
Synonyms:
- Root apical meristem
- Quiescent zone
A group of cells at the root tip of plants that is responsible for maintaining the stem cells that give rise to new roots.
Quaternary structure
Synonyms:
- Protein complex
- Multi-protein assembly
The arrangement of multiple protein molecules into a larger, functional unit.
Quicksilver
Synonyms:
- Mercury
- Hg
Another term for the element mercury, which can be toxic to plants and animals in high concentrations.
Quinoa virus
Synonyms:
- Chenopodium quinoa virus
- Quinoa mosaic virus
A type of plant virus that can infect and damage quinoa plants, reducing yield and quality.
Quinoline
Synonyms:
- 1-aza-naphthalene
- Antimalarial drug
A type of organic compound that can be used as a pesticide to control certain insects and fungi.
Quota
Synonyms:
- Import quota
- Export quota
A limit on the amount of agricultural products that can be imported or exported, often used to protect domestic producers from foreign competition.
Quiescent
Synonyms:
- Dormant
- Inactive
- Resting
A term used to describe a state of inactivity or dormancy in cells, tissues, or organisms.
Q fever
Synonyms:
- Coxiella burnetii infection
- Query fever
A bacterial disease that can affect animals and humans, often transmitted by infected livestock.
Quenching depth
Synonyms:
- Hardening depth
- Case depth
The depth of steel that is hardened during the quenching process.
Quail
Synonyms:
- Coturnix
- Game bird
A type of small game bird that is commonly hunted for sport or consumed as food.
Quantitative analysis
Synonyms:
- Numerical analysis
- Statistical analysis
A method of data analysis that involves the use of numerical data and statistical techniques to draw conclusions about a population or sample.
Quality Protein Maize
Synonyms:
- QPM
- High-Lysine Maize
A type of maize that is bred to have a higher protein content than traditional maize varieties.
Quick-Freezing
Synonyms:
- Flash-Freezing
- Cryogenic Freezing
A process used to rapidly freeze agricultural products to preserve their quality and nutritional value.
Quince Rust
Synonyms:
- Gymnosporangium Clavipes
- Cedar-Apple Rust
A type of fungal disease that can affect quince trees and other members of the Rosaceae family.
Quorum
Synonyms:
- Minimum Threshold
- Required Number
The minimum number of individuals required to make a decision or take an action.
Quercetin
Synonyms:
- 3,3′,4′,5,7-Pentahydroxyflavone
- Quercetol
A type of flavonoid that is found in many fruits, vegetables, and grains and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quillaja
Synonyms:
- Soapbark tree
- Quillaja saponaria
A tree native to South America that produces a natural foaming agent that is used in some agricultural products, such as pesticides and livestock vaccines.
Quinalphos
Synonyms:
- Dithiophosphate
- BAY 9042
A type of organophosphate pesticide that is used to control a variety of insect pests in agricultural crops.
Quinolizidine alkaloid
Synonyms:
- Lupin alkaloid
- Cytisine
A type of alkaloid compound that is found in certain plants, including legumes, and can have toxic or pharmacological effects.
Quaternary ammonium compounds
Synonyms:
- Quats
- QACs
A type of disinfectant that is commonly used in animal husbandry to control bacterial and fungal infections.
Quaternary climate change
Synonyms:
- Ice Age climate change
- Pleistocene climate change
A period of climate change that occurred during the Quaternary period, which began about 2.6 million years ago and continues to the present day.
Quiescent phase
Synonyms:
- Dormancy
- Rest phase
A period of inactivity or rest in the growth and development of plants or other organisms.
Quality Control
Synonyms:
- QC
- Quality Assurance
A process used to ensure that agricultural products meet certain standards of quality, safety, and consistency.
Quiescence Factor
Synonyms:
- Dormancy Factor
- Growth Inhibitor
A protein or other molecule that regulates quiescence or dormancy in cells.
Quinoa Genome
Synonyms:
- Quinoa DNA
- Quinoa Genetic Code
The complete set of genetic information encoded in the DNA of quinoa plants.
Quaternary Structure
Synonyms:
- Quaternary Organization
- Quaternary Conformation
The three-dimensional arrangement of multiple protein subunits or other macromolecules in a quaternary protein structure.
Quorum Sensing
Synonyms:
- Bacterial Signaling
- Autoinduction
A communication system used by some bacteria to coordinate group behaviors based on population density.
Quaternary Ammonia
Synonyms:
- Quaternary Ammonium Compound
- QAC
A type of ammonia compound that is often used as a cleaning agent in animal husbandry and other agricultural settings.
Quick wilt
Synonyms:
- Rapid wilt
- Sudden wilt
A type of postharvest physiological disorder in fruits and vegetables that can result in rapid wilting and loss of quality.
Quadrat
Synonyms:
- Sampling plot
- Quadrat square
A tool used in ecological studies to measure the distribution and abundance of plant and animal populations.
Quasi-experiment
Synonyms:
- Nonrandomized experiment
- Quasi-randomized trial
An experimental design that lacks some of the features of a true experiment, such as randomization or a control group.
Quaternary ammonium salt
Synonyms:
- Quaternary ammonium compound
- QAS
A type of salt that contains a quaternary ammonium cation and is used in a variety of agricultural products, including herbicides and disinfectants.
Quicksand
Synonyms:
- Sinking sand
- Fluidized soil
A type of soil or sediment that becomes fluidized when disturbed and can trap animals or machinery.
Quinoa milk
Synonyms:
- Quinoa beverage
- Quinoa milk substitute
A plant-based milk alternative made from quinoa seeds and water.
Quill
Synonyms:
- Feather shaft
- Rachis
A stiff, hollow structure found in the feathers of birds and used for flight and thermoregulation.
R
Rangeland
Synonyms:
- Pastureland
- Range
Land that is used primarily for grazing livestock, such as cattle or sheep.
Rotational Grazing
Synonyms:
- Rotational Stocking
- Controlled Grazing
A management technique in which livestock are moved between different grazing areas to prevent overgrazing and improve soil health.
Riparian
Synonyms:
- Riverside
- Streamside
Relating to or situated near a river or other watercourse.
Rhizosphere
Synonyms:
- Root Zone
- Rhizosphere Microbiome
The area of soil surrounding plant roots that is influenced by the presence of root exudates and microbial activity.
Ratoon Crop
Synonyms:
- Ratoon
- Stubble Crop
A secondary crop that grows from the remaining stalks of a previously harvested crop, such as sugarcane or pineapple.
Rotation Crop
Synonyms:
- Cover Crop
- Green Manure
A crop that is planted in a field after a different crop has been harvested in the previous growing season, in order to improve soil health and prevent pest buildup.
Row Crop
Synonyms:
- Row Crop Farming
- Row Planting
A crop that is planted in rows, such as corn or soybeans, and typically requires mechanical cultivation or harvesting.
Rainfed Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Dryland farming
- Rainfed farming
Agriculture that relies solely on rainfall for irrigation, without the use of artificial irrigation methods.
Rhizome
Synonyms:
- Rootstalk
- Creeping stem
A modified stem structure that grows underground and produces roots and shoots at nodes, such as in ginger or bamboo plants.
Resistance Breeding
Synonyms:
- Resistant cultivars
- Disease-resistant breeding
The process of developing crop varieties that are resistant to specific diseases, pests, or environmental stressors.
Residue Management
Synonyms:
- Residue retention
- Crop residue management
The practice of managing crop residues, such as stalks or leaves, to improve soil health and prevent soil erosion.
Renewable Energy
Synonyms:
- Sustainable energy
- Green energy
Energy that is generated from renewable sources, such as wind, solar, or biomass, that can be replenished over time.
Rural Development
Synonyms:
- Rural redevelopment
- Rural revitalization
The process of improving economic, social, and environmental conditions in rural areas through a variety of interventions, such as infrastructure development or capacity building.
Reclamation
Synonyms:
- Land restoration
- Land reclamation
The process of restoring degraded land, such as abandoned mine sites or eroded farmland, to a productive or natural state.
Root zone depth
Synonyms:
- Rooting depth
- Root depth
The depth at which plant roots are able to extract water and nutrients from the soil.
Remote sensing
Synonyms:
- Remote imagery
- Satellite sensing
The collection and analysis of data from a distance, often using satellites or aircraft, to monitor agricultural and environmental conditions.
Regression analysis
Synonyms:
- Regression modeling
- Linear regression
A statistical method used to analyze the relationship between one or more independent variables and a dependent variable.
Rangeland management
Synonyms:
- Range management
- Grazing management
The process of managing rangelands for sustainable livestock grazing and ecological health.
Rotavator
Synonyms:
- Rotary hoe
- Rototiller
A type of rotary tillage machine used to prepare soil for planting or to control weeds.
Remote Monitoring
Synonyms:
- Remote Sensing
- Telemetry
The use of sensors or other technology to monitor agricultural or environmental conditions from a distance.
Ratoon Stunting Disease
Synonyms:
- RSD
- Ratoon Stunting
A disease of sugarcane that is caused by a bacterium and can result in reduced yield and quality.
Reaping
Synonyms:
- Harvesting
- Crop Cutting
The process of cutting and gathering a mature crop, such as wheat or barley.
Reclaimed Water
Synonyms:
- Recycled Water
- Wastewater Reuse
Treated wastewater that is suitable for non-potable uses, such as irrigation or industrial processes.
Rooting Hormone
Synonyms:
- Rooting Compound
- Growth Hormone
A substance that is applied to plant cuttings to stimulate root growth and improve rooting success.
Rhizobium
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria
- Rhizobia
A type of soil bacteria that forms a symbiotic relationship with legumes, fixing atmospheric nitrogen and making it available to the plant.
Rural Electrification
Synonyms:
- Rural Electrification Program
- Electrification of Rural Areas
The process of extending electrical power to rural areas, often through the use of renewable energy sources.
Row Spacing
Synonyms:
- Plant Spacing
- Inter-row Spacing
The distance between rows of crops in a field, which can affect crop yield and the amount of light and nutrients available to each plant.
Rain Gauge
Synonyms:
- Pluviometer
- Rain Meter
An instrument used to measure the amount of precipitation in a specific area.
Runoff
Synonyms:
- Surface Water Runoff
- Stormwater Runoff
Water that flows over the surface of the land rather than infiltrating into the soil, often leading to soil erosion and nutrient loss.
Regenerative Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Regenerative Farming
- Carbon Farming
An agricultural system that focuses on improving soil health and biodiversity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing ecosystem services.
Rural Sociology
Synonyms:
- Rural Studies
- Agricultural Sociology
The study of social structures, relationships, and issues in rural communities.
Refractometer
Synonyms:
- Sugar meter
- Brix meter
An instrument used to measure the sugar content of crops, such as grapes or honey.
Ripener
Synonyms:
- Fruit ripener
- Ripening agent
A substance used to accelerate the ripening of fruits or vegetables, such as ethylene gas.
Rotation Plan
Synonyms:
- Crop rotation schedule
- Rotation cycle
A plan that outlines the sequence and timing of crops planted in a field to improve soil health and prevent pest buildup.
Rural Planning
Synonyms:
- Rural development planning
- Rural land use planning
The process of designing and managing rural landscapes and communities to achieve economic, social, and environmental goals.
Rangeland Restoration
Synonyms:
- Range restoration
- Grassland restoration
The process of restoring degraded rangeland ecosystems to improve soil health, biodiversity, and livestock grazing capacity.
Rodenticide
Synonyms:
- Rodent control
- Mouse poison
A substance used to control rodent populations, such as mice or rats.
Rainwater harvesting
Synonyms:
- Rainwater collection
- Rainwater catchment
The practice of collecting and storing rainwater for later use, often for irrigation or domestic purposes.
Rot-resistant
Synonyms:
- Decay-resistant
- Rot-proof
Refers to materials or crops that are resistant to rot or decay, often due to natural or synthetic preservatives.
Renewable resource
Synonyms:
- Sustainable resource
- Green resource
A resource that can be replenished over time, such as wood or wind power.
Ratoon
Synonyms:
- Stubble crop
- Ratoon crop
A crop that regrows from the base of a previously harvested plant, such as sugarcane or sorghum.
Ratoon stunting disease
Synonyms:
- Ratoon stunting
- Sugarcane stunt
A viral disease that affects sugarcane crops, causing stunted growth and reduced yield.
Residue management
Synonyms:
- Residue retention
- Crop residue management
The practice of managing crop residues, such as leaves or stalks, to improve soil health and reduce erosion.
Rainfed agriculture
Synonyms:
- Dryland farming
- Rain-dependent agriculture
Agriculture that relies solely on rainfall for water, without the use of irrigation systems.
Reconditioning
Synonyms:
- Soil reconditioning
- Nutrient reconditioning
The process of restoring or improving the quality of soil, fertilizer, or other agricultural inputs.
Ratoon cropping
Synonyms:
- Stubble cropping
- Ratoon culture
A cropping system where a crop is grown from the regrowth of the previous crop’s base, often used in sugarcane or rice production.
Reproductive growth
Synonyms:
- Reproductive phase
- Flowering stage
The stage of plant growth where the plant produces flowers, fruit, or seeds, and is focused on reproduction rather than vegetative growth.
Rain shadow
Synonyms:
- Arid zone
- Desert area
A dry area on the leeward side of a mountain range that receives less precipitation due to the mountain blocking moist air.
Root exudates
Synonyms:
- Root secretions
- Rhizosphere exudates
Organic compounds released by plant roots into the soil that can affect soil chemistry, nutrient availability, and microbial activity.
Root pruning
Synonyms:
- Root trimming
- Root cutting
The process of selectively cutting or removing plant roots to promote plant growth or manage root growth in confined spaces.
Rainfed rice
Synonyms:
- Upland rice
- Dryland rice
Rice that is grown without the use of irrigation systems, relying solely on rainfall.
Root rot
Synonyms:
- Root decay
- Root fungus
A fungal disease that affects plant roots, causing decay and reduced plant growth.
Ratoon crop management
Synonyms:
- Ratoon crop cultivation
- Stubble crop management
The practices used to manage ratoon crops, including fertilizer application, pest control, and crop rotation.
Rhizome
Synonyms:
- Rootstalk
- Creeping rootstock
A modified stem that grows horizontally underground and can give rise to new shoots and roots.
Row cover
Synonyms:
- Crop cover
- Plant cover
A protective fabric or plastic cover used to protect crops from pests, frost, or extreme weather conditions.
Ruminant
Synonyms:
- Cud-chewing animal
- Herbivore
A mammal, such as a cow or sheep, with a four-chambered stomach that is able to digest cellulose-rich plant material.
Resistant cultivar
Synonyms:
- Disease-resistant cultivar
- Pest-resistant variety
A plant variety that is resistant to a specific pest or disease, often developed through selective breeding or genetic engineering.
Rhizobium
Synonyms:
- Nitrogen-fixing bacteria
- Legume inoculant
A type of soil bacteria that forms a symbiotic relationship with legumes, fixing atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by the plant.
Root-knot nematode
Synonyms:
- Meloidogyne spp.
- Root-knot disease
A parasitic roundworm that infects plant roots, causing the formation of swollen root galls and reduced plant growth.
Riparian zone
Synonyms:
- Streamside zone
- Riverside habitat
The area of land adjacent to a river or other body of water that is influenced by the water’s presence.
Ridge tillage
Synonyms:
- Raised bed farming
- High-bed planting
A type of conservation tillage where crops are planted on ridges of soil, leaving furrows between the rows to improve water infiltration and reduce erosion.
Rootstock
Synonyms:
- Root piece
- Root system
The lower portion of a grafted plant, often chosen for its desirable root characteristics, onto which a scion (the desired variety) is grafted.
Reclamation
Synonyms:
- Land restoration
- Rehabilitation
The process of restoring degraded land to a more productive state, often through the use of soil amendments, drainage systems, and erosion control measures.
Runoff
Synonyms:
- Surface runoff
- Stormwater runoff
Water that flows over the surface of the ground or other surface, often carrying sediment, nutrients, and pollutants.
Refractometer
Synonyms:
- Sugar meter
- Juice tester
An instrument used to measure the sugar content (Brix) of plant sap or juice, often used to determine fruit ripeness or to monitor plant health.
Rust
Synonyms:
- Fungal rust
- Rust disease
A fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, causing orange, red, or brown pustules on leaves or stems.
Replant disease
Synonyms:
- Soil sickness
- Monoculture effect
A condition where crops planted in soil previously used for the same crop or a closely related crop exhibit reduced growth and yield.
Rooting hormone
Synonyms:
- Rooting powder
- Growth hormone
A natural or synthetic substance applied to plant cuttings to stimulate root growth and improve propagation success.
Rhizosphere
Synonyms:
- Root zone
- Root environment
The soil surrounding a plant’s roots, where complex interactions occur between the plant, soil, and microorganisms.
Rotavator
Synonyms:
- Rotary tiller
- Power harrow
A machine used for tillage and seedbed preparation, equipped with rotating blades or tines that break up soil and incorporate organic matter.
S
Seedbed
Synonyms:
- Planting bed
- Nursery bed
The prepared soil surface in which seeds are sown or planted.
Soil
Synonyms:
- Earth
- Dirt
The upper layer of earth in which plants grow, consisting of mineral particles, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms.
Sowing
Synonyms:
- Seeding
- Planting
The process of planting seeds in soil or a growing medium.
Sprayer
Synonyms:
- Spray rig
- Sprayer boom
A device used to apply liquid pesticides, fertilizers, or other agricultural chemicals to crops.
Spreader
Synonyms:
- Broadcast spreader
- Fertilizer spreader
A machine used to distribute fertilizers, lime, or other materials over a wide area.
Silt
Synonyms:
- Sediment
- Mud
Fine soil particles, smaller than sand but larger than clay, that can accumulate in waterways and affect water quality.
Silage
Synonyms:
- Ensilage
- Haylage
Fermented forage crops, often made from grass or corn, used as animal feed.
Strip-till
Synonyms:
- Zone-till
- Conservation strip tillage
A conservation tillage practice where only narrow strips of soil are disturbed, leaving the rest of the soil undisturbed to reduce erosion and improve soil health.
Soil amendment
Synonyms:
- Soil conditioner
- Soil improvement material
Any material added to soil to improve its physical or chemical properties, such as organic matter, lime, or gypsum.
Soil compaction
Synonyms:
- Soil density
- Soil hardness
The compression of soil particles, reducing pore space and limiting water infiltration and root growth.
Soil erosion
Synonyms:
- Soil loss
- Land degradation
The loss of soil due to water or wind movement, often caused by inadequate vegetation cover or poor soil management practices.
Soil fertility
Synonyms:
- Soil productivity
- Soil health
The ability of soil to support plant growth, determined by factors such as nutrient availability, soil structure, and microbial activity.
Soil pH
Synonyms:
- Soil acidity
- Soil alkalinity
A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil, which affects nutrient availability and plant growth.
Soil Structure
Synonyms:
- Soil texture
- Soil composition
The arrangement of soil particles into aggregates, affecting water movement, aeration, and root growth.
Soil Testing
Synonyms:
- Soil analysis
- Soil sampling
The process of analyzing soil samples to determine nutrient levels, pH, and other properties important for plant growth.
Subsoil
Synonyms:
- Subsoil horizon
- B horizon
The layer of soil beneath the topsoil, often less fertile and harder to cultivate.
Surface Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Flood irrigation
- Gravity irrigation
A method of watering crops by applying water to the soil surface, often through furrows or flood irrigation.
Seed Drill
Synonyms:
- Seeder
- Planter
A machine used to sow seeds at a precise depth and spacing, often used for planting crops such as wheat or corn.
Scarecrow
Synonyms:
- Bird scare
- Decoy
A device used to scare birds away from crops, often in the form of a human or animal figure.
Swath
Synonyms:
- Windrow
- Hay swath
A row of cut vegetation, often created by a mower or harvester.
Straw
Synonyms:
- Hay
- Stubble
Dried stems and leaves of cereal crops, often used for animal bedding or as a mulch.
Stubble
Synonyms:
- Crop residue
- Chaff
The remaining plant material left in the field after harvest, often tilled into the soil as a form of organic matter.
Soil Health
Synonyms:
- Soil quality
- Soil vitality
The overall condition of soil, including its physical, chemical, and biological properties, as well as its ability to support plant growth and other ecosystem functions.
Sucker
Synonyms:
- Basal shoot
- Water sprout
A shoot that emerges from the base of a plant, often unwanted and removed to promote growth in other parts of the plant.
Sprinkler
Synonyms:
- Irrigation sprinkler
- Water cannon
A device used to distribute water over a wide area, often used for irrigating crops.
Scion
Synonyms:
- Graft
- Budwood
A shoot or twig from one plant that is grafted onto the rootstock of another plant to create a new plant with desirable traits.
Siltation
Synonyms:
- Sedimentation
- Deposition
The accumulation of silt or other sediment in waterways, often caused by soil erosion or land use changes.
Swath roller
Synonyms:
- Hay roller
- Bale roller
A machine used to compact hay or other forage crops into a tight swath for easier handling and storage.
Spade
Synonyms:
- Shovel
- Trowel
A tool used for digging or turning soil, often with a flat blade and long handle.
Secondary tillage
Synonyms:
- Cultivation
- Secondary cultivation
A form of soil tillage that follows primary tillage, often used for refining the seedbed or controlling weeds.
Seed treatment
Synonyms:
- Seed coating
- Seed protection
The application of chemicals, such as fungicides or insecticides, to seeds before planting to protect against pests or disease.
Storage Bin
Synonyms:
- Silo
- Grain bin
A container used for storing grain, seed, or other agricultural products.
Seed Bank
Synonyms:
- Germplasm bank
- Seed repository
A collection of seeds from various plant species, often used for conservation or research purposes.
Soil Amendments
Synonyms:
- Soil conditioner
- Soil improvement material
Any material added to soil to improve its physical or chemical properties, such as organic matter, lime, or gypsum.
Soil Conservation
Synonyms:
- Land conservation
- Soil management
The management of soil to prevent erosion, maintain fertility, and promote sustainable use.
Soil Organic Matter
Synonyms:
- Humus
- Compost
The living and dead plant and animal material in soil, providing nutrients and improving soil structure.
Soil Sterilization
Synonyms:
- Soil fumigation
- Soil disinfestation
The process of eliminating all living organisms in soil using heat, chemicals, or other methods, often used to control pests or diseases.
Soil Structure
Synonyms:
- Soil texture
- Soil composition
The arrangement of soil particles into aggregates, affecting water movement, aeration, and root growth.
Soil type
Synonyms:
- Soil classification
- Soil type system
A classification system based on the physical and chemical properties of soil, often used for soil management and agricultural planning.
Soil water
Synonyms:
- Soil moisture
- Soil hydrology
The water present in soil, affecting plant growth and nutrient availability.
Sprout
Synonyms:
- Germination
- Seedling
A young shoot or plant that emerges from a seed or other dormant structure.
Sward
Synonyms:
- Pasture
- Meadow
A dense mass of grass or other vegetation, often used for grazing or hay production.
Sustainable agriculture
Synonyms:
- Regenerative agriculture
- Sustainable farming
Agricultural practices that are environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible, promoting long-term resource use and ecological health.
Soil erosion
Synonyms:
- Soil loss
- Soil degradation
The process by which soil is moved from one place to another by wind, water, or other factors, often leading to loss of fertility and land degradation.
Seedling
Synonyms:
- Sprout
- Sapling
- Seedling plant
A young plant that has recently emerged from a seed or other dormant structure.
Silage
Synonyms:
- Ensilage
- Haylage
- Fermented fodder
Fermented fodder that is stored in a silo or other container for later use as animal feed.
Seedbed
Synonyms:
- Planting bed
- Seed plot
- Germination area
The prepared area of soil where seeds are planted or sown, often requiring specific conditions for optimal growth.
Sprayer
Synonyms:
- Spraying machine
- Atomizer
- Spray pump
A device used for applying liquids, such as pesticides or herbicides, to crops or other plants.
Soil compaction
Synonyms:
- Soil compression
- Soil density
- Soil consolidation
The process by which soil particles are pressed together, often reducing pore space and restricting root growth and water movement.
Soil drainage
Synonyms:
- Soil permeability
- Soil water movement
- Soil water drainage
The process by which water moves through soil, affecting nutrient availability and plant growth.
Soil pH
Synonyms:
- Soil acidity
- Soil alkalinity
A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil, affecting nutrient availability and plant growth.
Soil Salinity
Synonyms:
- Soil Salt Content
- Soil Salinization
The amount of dissolved salt in soil, affecting plant growth and soil structure.
Soil Structure Degradation
Synonyms:
- Soil Degradation
- Soil Structure Loss
The process by which soil structure is negatively affected, often due to compaction, erosion, or other factors, leading to reduced fertility and plant growth.
Soil Texture
Synonyms:
- Soil Composition
- Soil Particle Size
The proportion of sand, silt, and clay particles in soil, affecting water movement, aeration, and nutrient availability.
Soil Tillage
Synonyms:
- Soil Cultivation
- Soil Preparation
The process of preparing soil for planting or sowing, often involving mechanical tools such as plows or cultivators.
Strip-till
Synonyms:
- Zone Tillage
- Minimum Tillage
A form of conservation tillage that involves tilling only a narrow strip of soil where seeds will be planted, leaving the remainder of the field untilled.
Seed Bank
Synonyms:
- Germplasm Bank
- Seed Repository
A collection of seeds from various plant species, often used for conservation or research purposes.
Seed drill
Synonyms:
- Seed planter
- Seed broadcaster
A device used for sowing seeds in rows or other patterns, often used for planting crops such as wheat or corn.
Soil amendment calculator
Synonyms:
- Fertilizer calculator
- Soil amendment estimator
A tool used to calculate the amount of soil amendments needed to improve soil fertility or other properties, often based on soil test results.
Soil test
Synonyms:
- Soil analysis
- Soil fertility test
A process of analyzing soil samples to determine nutrient levels, pH, and other properties that affect plant growth.
Seed treatment
Synonyms:
- Seed coating
- Seed dressing
The process of treating seeds with chemicals or other substances to protect them from pests, diseases, or environmental stress.
Stocking rate
Synonyms:
- Animal density
- Grazing capacity
The number of animals that can be grazed on a given area of land without causing overgrazing or other negative effects.
Soil biology
Synonyms:
- Soil microbiology
- Soil ecology
The study of living organisms in soil, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, and their interactions with each other and with plants.
Sustainable agriculture
Synonyms:
- Regenerative agriculture
- Eco-agriculture
- Agroforestry
- Agroforestation
- Agro-sylviculture
A method of farming that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often involving practices such as crop rotation, conservation tillage, and integrated pest management. Sustainable agriculture also provides environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.
Soil health
Synonyms:
- Soil quality
- Soil vitality
The overall condition of soil, including its physical, chemical, and biological properties, and its ability to support plant growth and maintain ecosystem functions. Soil health is important for maintaining agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.
Soil moisture
Synonyms:
- Soil water content
- Soil wetness
The amount of water held in soil, affecting plant growth and nutrient availability. Soil moisture is an important factor for determining agricultural productivity and ecosystem functioning.
Soil organic matter
Synonyms:
- Soil carbon
- Humus
The portion of soil made up of decaying plant and animal material, affecting soil structure, nutrient availability, and water holding capacity. Soil organic matter is an important component of soil health and agricultural productivity.
Soil profile
Synonyms:
- Soil cross-section
- Soil layering
A vertical section of soil that displays the different layers or horizons that make up the soil, often used to assess soil properties and fertility. Soil profile analysis is an important tool for understanding soil health and making informed agricultural management decisions.
Seed viability
Synonyms:
- Germination rate
- Seed viability test
- Seed quality
The ability of a seed to germinate and produce a viable plant, affected by factors such as age, storage conditions, and genetics.
Soil warming
Synonyms:
- Soil heating
- Soil temperature management
The process of artificially raising soil temperature, often used to extend the growing season or promote early growth of crops.
Sustainable forestry
Synonyms:
- Eco-forestry
- Responsible forestry
A method of managing forests that aims to balance the needs of environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic viability, often involving practices such as selective harvesting and reforestation.
Soil-borne disease
Synonyms:
- Soil-borne pathogen
- Soil-borne infection
A disease that affects plants and is caused by pathogens present in the soil, often leading to reduced yield or plant death.
Soil amendment
Synonyms:
- Soil conditioner
- Soil enhancer
A material added to soil to improve its physical, chemical, or biological properties, often including materials such as compost, lime, or fertilizer.
Soil survey
Synonyms:
- Soil mapping
- Soil inventory
A systematic study of soil properties and characteristics in a given area, often used to inform land use and management decisions.
T
Tillage
Synonyms:
- Cultivation
- Plowing
- Tilling
The mechanical manipulation of soil to prepare it for planting or to control weeds and pests.
Topsoil
Synonyms:
- Surface soil
- A horizon
The upper layer of soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients, often the most fertile part of the soil.
Terrace farming
Synonyms:
- Bench farming
- Stepped farming
A method of farming on steep slopes that involves creating flat, level areas of land supported by retaining walls, often used to reduce erosion and increase crop yields.
Transgenic
Synonyms:
- Genetically modified
- Genetically engineered
An organism that has been genetically modified by adding genes from another species, often used to produce crops with desirable traits such as resistance to pests or herbicides.
Transpiration
Synonyms:
- Plant sweating
- Leaf transpiration
The process by which plants release water vapor into the air through small pores on their leaves, often regulating temperature and moisture in the plant and surrounding environment.
Threshing
Synonyms:
- Harvesting
- Separating
- Winnowing
The process of separating grain from the rest of the plant, often using machines or tools such as a thresher or flail.
Terrace
Synonyms:
- Bench
- Step
Trace elements
Synonyms:
- Micronutrients
- Minor elements
Trench composting
Synonyms:
- Pit composting
- In-ground composting
Till
Synonyms:
- Cultivate
- Plow
- Work
Thinning
Synonyms:
- Pruning
- Culling
- Thinning out
Tolerance
Synonyms:
- Resistance
- Resilience
- Hardiness
Transplanting
Synonyms:
- Re-planting
- Re-potting
Thigmotropism
Synonyms:
- Touch response
- Tactile response
Thermal time
Synonyms:
- Degree days
- Growing degree days
A measure of the amount of heat accumulated over time, often used to predict plant growth and development.
Tillage erosion
Synonyms:
- Cultivation erosion
- Plow pan erosion
The loss of soil due to repeated tillage or other forms of soil disturbance, often leading to decreased soil productivity and increased sedimentation in nearby waterways.
Tillage depth
Synonyms:
- Tillage intensity
- Plow depth
The depth to which soil is disturbed during tillage, often affecting soil structure and nutrient availability.
Transpiration rate
Synonyms:
- Leaf water loss
- Plant water use
The rate at which water vapor is released from a plant through transpiration, often influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind.
Tillage system
Synonyms:
- Cultivation system
- Plowing system
A method or pattern of tilling soil, often determined by the type of crop being grown, the size of the field, and other factors.
Tropism
Synonyms:
- Plant movement
- Plant response
The directional growth or movement of a plant in response to an external stimulus, such as light, gravity, or touch.
Tensiometer
Synonyms:
- Soil moisture meter
- Soil moisture sensor
A tool used to measure soil moisture tension, often used to determine when irrigation is needed.
Thermal Inversion
Synonyms:
- Temperature inversion
- Air inversion
A weather condition in which a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, often leading to increased air pollution and reduced visibility.
Translocation
Synonyms:
- Nutrient movement
- Substance transport
The movement of nutrients and other substances from one part of a plant to another, often driven by the plant’s internal transport system.
Tillage Depth Gauge
Synonyms:
- Plow depth gauge
- Cultivation depth gauge
A tool used to measure the depth to which soil is disturbed during tillage, often used to optimize tillage practices for soil health and productivity.
Thistle
Synonyms:
- Prickly weed
- Noxious weed
A group of spiny, weedy plants often considered a pest in agricultural settings.
Tree Fruit
Synonyms:
- Orchard Fruit
- Pomaceous Fruit
Fruit that grows on trees, such as apples, pears, and peaches, often requiring specific growing conditions and management practices.
Tuber
Synonyms:
- Root Crop
- Underground Stem
A swollen, underground stem of a plant, such as a potato or yam, often used as a food source.
Tractor
Synonyms:
- Farm Vehicle
- Plow Machine
A motorized vehicle used in agriculture for plowing, tilling, and other tasks.
Trellis
Synonyms:
- Climbing Frame
- Plant Support
A framework or structure used to support climbing plants, often used in grape or tomato production.
Tackifier
Synonyms:
- Soil Binder
- Mulch Stabilizer
A substance used to bind or stabilize soil or mulch, often used in erosion control or landscaping.
Thatching
Synonyms:
- Thatch Roofing
- Plant Roofing
The process of covering a roof or structure with plant material, such as straw or palm leaves, often used in traditional or sustainable building practices.
Thrips
Synonyms:
- Plant lice
- Thunder flies
Small, slender insects that can damage crops by feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruit.
Time release fertilizer
Synonyms:
- Slow-release fertilizer
- Controlled-release fertilizer
A type of fertilizer that releases nutrients slowly over time, often used to improve nutrient uptake and reduce environmental impact.
Transgenic plant
Synonyms:
- Genetically modified plant
- Engineered plant
A plant that has been genetically modified to express a desired trait, often using genetic engineering techniques.
Transpiration stream
Synonyms:
- Plant water transport
- Sap flow
The continuous movement of water and dissolved nutrients through a plant from the roots to the leaves, driven by transpiration and plant physiology.
Turfgrass management
Synonyms:
- Lawn management
- Grass care
The science and practice of maintaining healthy, attractive turfgrass for aesthetic or functional purposes, often involving mowing, fertilization, and pest control.
Thermal stress
Synonyms:
- Heat stress
- Cold stress
Damage to plants caused by extreme temperatures, often leading to reduced growth, yield, or quality.
Tolerance limit
Synonyms:
- Critical level
The maximum level of exposure or stress that a plant can withstand without significant damage or loss in yield or quality.
Transposable element
Synonyms:
- Jumping gene
- Mobile genetic element
A segment of DNA that can move or transpose from one location to another within the genome, potentially affecting gene expression and function.
Thiamine
Synonyms:
- Vitamin B1
- Thiamin
A B vitamin important for plant growth and metabolism, often added to fertilizer or applied as a foliar spray.
Top dressing
Synonyms:
- Surface application
- Top dressing fertilizer
The application of fertilizer, compost, or other soil amendments on the surface of the soil, often used to supplement soil nutrients and improve plant growth.
Terminal bud
Synonyms:
- Apical bud
- Growing tip
The bud at the tip of a stem or branch that controls growth and branching patterns in a plant.
Transplanting
Synonyms:
- Re-planting
- Relocation
The process of moving a plant from one location to another, often used to establish seedlings or to move mature plants to a new location.
Tree nut
Synonyms:
- Arboreal nut
- Nut tree
A type of edible nut that grows on trees, such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans, often used in culinary applications.
Thatching grass
Synonyms:
- Thatch grass
- Roof grass
A type of grass often used in traditional thatching practices, such as African thatching grass or vetiver grass.
Trace element
Synonyms:
- Micronutrient
- Minor element
A mineral element required in small quantities for plant growth and health, such as iron, zinc, or copper.
Tillage erosion
Synonyms:
- Plow erosion
- Cultivation erosion
The loss of topsoil due to tillage practices, often leading to reduced soil fertility and productivity.
Transgenic organism
Synonyms:
- Genetically modified organism
- Engineered organism
An organism that has been genetically modified to express a desired trait, often using genetic engineering techniques.
Transpiration rate
Synonyms:
- Water loss rate
- Leaf water potential
The rate at which a plant releases water vapor through the stomata in its leaves, often influenced by environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and wind.
Tipping point
Synonyms:
- Critical point
- Point of no return
The threshold at which a system or process undergoes a rapid and irreversible change, often used in the context of climate change and environmental management.
Trench composting
Synonyms:
- Pit composting
- Trenching
A composting method that involves burying organic matter in a trench or pit, often used in garden or small-scale composting systems.
Turfgrass
Synonyms:
- Lawn grass
- Sod grass
A type of grass often used for lawns, sports fields, and other recreational or ornamental purposes, such as Kentucky bluegrass or Bermuda grass.
Thinning
Synonyms:
- Pruning
- Thinning out
The process of removing excess plant growth or fruit, often used to improve yield, quality, or plant health.
Toxicity Threshold
Synonyms:
- Toxic Threshold
- Critical Concentration
The level of exposure to a toxic substance at which negative effects on plant growth, yield, or health become evident.
Tuberization
Synonyms:
- Tuber Formation
- Tuber Initiation
The process of forming or developing tubers, often used in potato production.
Tolerance Range
Synonyms:
- Environmental Range
- Ecological Niche
The range of environmental conditions within which a plant can grow and function, often influenced by factors such as temperature, light, and soil moisture.
Transgenic Crop
Synonyms:
- Genetically Modified Crop
- Engineered Crop
A crop that has been genetically modified to express a desired trait, often using genetic engineering techniques.
U
Udder
Synonyms:
- Mammary gland
- Teat
- Nipple
The mammary gland of cows and other milk-producing animals, from which milk is extracted.
Umbel
Synonyms:
- Inflorescence
- Flower head
- Flower cluster
A type of flower cluster where multiple stems arise from a single point, resembling an umbrella.
Unfertilized
Synonyms:
- Not fertilized
- Untreated
- Unmanured
Plants or crops that have not been treated with fertilizers or have not received enough nutrients.
Upland
Synonyms:
- High ground
- Hillside
- Elevated land
Higher ground or terrain above low-lying areas, typically used for crop production.
Urea
Synonyms:
- Carbamide
- Diamide
- Carbonyl diamide
A nitrogen-rich compound used as a fertilizer in agriculture.
Underbrush
Synonyms:
- Understory
- Brush
- Scrub
The shrubs, bushes, and low-growing plants found beneath the canopy of trees in a forest or woodland.
Unleached
Synonyms:
- Not leached
- Unaltered
- Unspoiled
Referring to soil that has not been washed out or depleted of its nutrients by excess water or leaching.
Underground Irrigation
Synonyms:
- Sub-surface irrigation
- Drip irrigation
- Buried irrigation
A method of irrigating crops by delivering water directly to the root zone through underground pipes or tubes.
Upright
Synonyms:
- Erect
- Vertical
- Standing
Referring to a type of plant growth habit where stems grow vertically upwards.
Urban Agriculture
Synonyms:
- Urban Farming
- City Farming
- Rooftop Gardening
The practice of growing crops or raising animals in urban areas, typically on small plots or in community gardens.
Uniflorous
Synonyms:
- Single-flowered
- One-flowered
- Monofloral
Referring to a plant that has a single flower or inflorescence per stem.
Udometer
Synonyms:
- Soil Moisture Meter
- Hygrometer
A device used for measuring the amount of moisture in the soil.
Unit Crop
Synonyms:
- Mono-crop
- Single Crop
- One Crop
A farming practice where a single crop is grown on a specific area of land for an entire season.
Upper Leaves
Synonyms:
- Top Leaves
- Upper Foliage
- Uppermost Leaves
The leaves of a plant that are located towards the top of the stem.
Urea-Formaldehyde
Synonyms:
- UF
- Formaldehyde Urea
A type of synthetic resin used in the production of fertilizers, particleboard, and other agricultural materials.
Upwelling
Synonyms:
- Uplift
- Upsurge
- Updraft
The movement of nutrient-rich water from deeper ocean layers towards the surface, which can benefit marine plant and animal life.
Understock
Synonyms:
- Rootstock
- Scion
- Stock Plant
A rootstock or stem used for grafting or budding a desired cultivar onto.
Uracil
Synonyms:
- 2,4-Dihydroxy-6-Methylpyrimidine
- U
A nitrogen-containing base found in RNA that is involved in protein synthesis.
Uptake
Synonyms:
- Absorption
- Assimilation
- Intake
The process by which plants absorb nutrients from the soil through their roots.
Utilization rate
Synonyms:
- Use rate
- Consumption rate
- Uptake efficiency
The amount of a particular input or resource (e.g. fertilizer, water) that is actually used by a plant or crop.
Ultraviolet (UV)
Synonyms:
- UV light
- UV radiation
A type of radiation from the sun that can affect plant growth and development.
Unbranched
Synonyms:
- Simple
- Unbranched
- Single-stemmed
Having no branches or lateral shoots.
Undersowing
Synonyms:
- Intercropping
- Undersowing
- Companion planting
The practice of sowing a second crop underneath an already established crop, typically used for pasture or green manure.
Unfertilized
Synonyms:
- Unfed
- Unmanured
- Barren
Not fertilized; lacking nutrients required for growth.
Unicellular
Synonyms:
- Single-celled
- Mononuclear
- One-celled
Composed of a single cell.
Uneven-aged
Synonyms:
- Mixed-aged
- Multi-aged
- Uneven structure
Referring to a forest or stand of trees in which there is a mix of different age classes.
Unifoliate
Synonyms:
- One-leaved
- Monofoliate
- Simple leaf
Having a single leaflet.
Unproductive
Synonyms:
- Barren
- Fruitless
- Unprofitable
Failing to produce a desired yield or outcome.
Uptake rate
Synonyms:
- Absorption rate
- Assimilation rate
- Uptake efficiency
The rate at which plants absorb nutrients or other substances from the soil or air.
Urea
Synonyms:
- Carbamide
- Diaminomethanal
- NH2CONH2
A nitrogen-rich fertilizer commonly used in agriculture.
Utility crop
Synonyms:
- Industrial crop
- Non-food crop
- Cash crop
A crop grown for its practical use, such as fuel or fiber.
Utilization
Synonyms:
- Consumption
- Exploitation
- Application
The act of making use of something, such as a resource or crop.
Uvula
Synonyms:
- Bell
- Clapper
- Tongue
A small, fleshy projection hanging from the back of the soft palate in some animals, such as cows and horses.
Urease
Synonyms:
- Urea amidohydrolase
- Carbamide amidohydrolase
An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea, often used in agriculture to regulate the release of nitrogen in fertilizers.
Uric Acid
Synonyms:
- 2,6,8-trihydroxypurine
- Urate
A nitrogenous waste product excreted by birds and reptiles, often used as a fertilizer.
Urine
Synonyms:
- Pee
- Peepee
The liquid waste excreted by mammals, often used as a fertilizer in agriculture.
Use Value
Synonyms:
- Utility Value
- Functional Value
The practical value of a crop or animal in terms of its usefulness to humans.
Utility
Synonyms:
- Practicality
- Usefulness
The usefulness of a crop or animal for a specific purpose, such as meat or milk production.
Uvarovite
Synonyms:
- Calcium chromium garnet
- Emerald green garnet
A rare green mineral in the garnet group, sometimes used as a soil amendment in agriculture.
Uvularia
Synonyms:
- Bellwort
- Merrybells
A genus of herbaceous plants in the lily family, sometimes used in traditional medicine and as a wildflower.
Understory
Synonyms:
- Undergrowth
- Underbrush
The layer of vegetation growing beneath the canopy of trees in a forest.
Unfermented Feed
Synonyms:
- Unfermented Silage
- Dry Feed
Feed that has not undergone a fermentation process, often used as a dietary supplement for livestock.
Uniformity
Synonyms:
- Homogeneity
- Consistency
The consistency or similarity of a crop or animal population with regards to desirable traits.
V
Variety
Synonyms:
- Type
- Breed
- Strain
A group of plants or animals that share certain characteristics.
Vegetable
Synonyms:
- Produce
- Greens
- Veggies
A plant that is grown for food, usually eaten raw or cooked.
Vineyard
Synonyms:
- Winery
- Grape farm
- Vineyard estate
A piece of land where grapes are grown to produce wine.
Viticulture
Synonyms:
- Grape farming
- Vineyard cultivation
- Viticultural practice
The cultivation of grapevines.
Veterinary
Synonyms:
- Animal health
- Veterinary medicine
- Veterinary science
Related to the medical care of animals.
Vermicomposting
Synonyms:
- Worm composting
- Vermicompost production
A process of composting organic waste with the help of earthworms.
Vertical farming
Synonyms:
- Vertical agriculture
- Vertical horticulture
A method of growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often in urban areas.
Vermiculture
Synonyms:
- Worm farming
- Worm culture
- Vermiculture practice
The cultivation of earthworms for use in composting and soil improvement.
Vernalization
Synonyms:
- Winterization
- Cold treatment
- Cold stratification
A process of inducing plants to flower by exposing them to prolonged periods of cold temperatures.
Vapor Pressure Deficit
Synonyms:
- VPD
- Atmospheric moisture deficit
- Relative humidity deficit
The difference between the amount of moisture in the air and the amount of moisture that the air can hold at a given temperature.
Vaporizer
Synonyms:
- Vaporizer pen
- Vaporizer unit
- Vaporizing device
A device used to vaporize liquids or herbs for inhalation.
Vector
Synonyms:
- Carrier
- Transmitter
- Agent
An organism that transmits disease from one host to another.
Vesicular-Arbuscular Mycorrhiza
Synonyms:
- VAM
- Mycorrhiza
A type of symbiotic relationship between plants and fungi, in which the fungus helps the plant absorb nutrients from the soil.
Vermifuge
Synonyms:
- Wormer
- Anthelmintic
- Dewormer
A substance used to expel intestinal worms from animals.
Vine
Synonyms:
- Grapevine
- Creeper
- Climber
A plant that climbs or trails along the ground, often producing fruit.
Vanilla
Synonyms:
- Vanilla bean
- Vanilla extract
- Vanilla flavor
A flavoring derived from the seeds of the vanilla orchid.
Ventilation
Synonyms:
- Air exchange
- Air flow
- Air circulation
The process of exchanging air in a confined space to maintain a healthy environment.
Virulence
Synonyms:
- Toxicity
- Virulency
- Pathogenicity
The degree of pathogenicity of a microorganism.
Virus
Synonyms:
- Pathogen
- Infectious agent
- Microbe
A microscopic infectious agent that replicates itself inside living cells.
Vole
Synonyms:
- Field mouse
- Meadow mouse
- Vole rat
A small rodent that is commonly found in agricultural fields.
Vernal pool
Synonyms:
- Ephemeral pool
- Spring pool
- Seasonal pool
A temporary pool of water that is typically formed in the spring and supports a unique ecosystem.
Vapour pressure
Synonyms:
- Vapor tension
- Vapor saturation pressure
- Vapor density
The pressure exerted by a vapor in a closed container at a given temperature.
Vinegar
Synonyms:
- Acetic acid
- Pickling vinegar
- Malt vinegar
A sour liquid made by fermenting alcohol, often used as a preservative or condiment.
Vapor barrier
Synonyms:
- Moisture barrier
- Air barrier
- Vapor retarder
A material used to prevent the transmission of water vapor and air between two spaces.
Vegetable Oil
Synonyms:
- Cooking Oil
- Plant Oil
- Vegetable Fat
A type of oil that is extracted from plants and used for cooking, cosmetics, and other purposes.
Variegated
Synonyms:
- Multicolored
- Mottled
- Patterned
Having different colors or patterns on the leaves or other parts of a plant.
Varroa mite
Synonyms:
- Varroa destructor
- Honeybee mite
- Bee parasite
A parasitic mite that feeds on honeybees and can weaken or kill entire hives.
Vaporization
Synonyms:
- Evaporation
- Boiling
- Sublimation
The process of converting a liquid into a vapor.
Vegetative propagation
Synonyms:
- Asexual reproduction
- Cloning
- Vegetative reproduction
A method of plant propagation that does not involve seeds, such as by cuttings or layering.
Vetch
Synonyms:
- Fodder vetch
- Tare
- Wild pea
A type of legume that is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock.
Vigor
Synonyms:
- Vitality
- Energy
- Strength
The strength, health, or vitality of a plant or animal.
Virus resistance
Synonyms:
- Viral resistance
- Antiviral immunity
The ability of a plant or animal to resist infection by a specific virus.
Vinegar fly
Synonyms:
- Fruit fly
- Drosophila melanogaster
- Vinegar gnat
A small fly that is attracted to fermenting fruit and vegetables, and is often used as a model organism in genetics research.
Volatility
Synonyms:
- Evaporation rate
- Vapor pressure
- Volatility index
The tendency of a substance to evaporate or vaporize at a given temperature.
Vineyard management
Synonyms:
- Grapevine management
- Vineyard cultivation
The practice of managing a vineyard, including tasks such as pruning, fertilization, and pest control.
Verticillium wilt
Synonyms:
- Verticillium wilt disease
- Wilt fungus
A fungal disease that affects a wide range of plants, causing wilting and discoloration of leaves and stems.
Veterinary technician
Synonyms:
- Animal health technician
- Veterinary assistant
A trained professional who provides support to veterinarians in the care of animals.
Vermicompost
Synonyms:
- Worm compost
- Worm castings
- Vermicompost fertilizer
A type of compost that is produced using earthworms to break down organic waste.
Vermiculite
Synonyms:
- Expanded vermiculite
- Vermiculite insulation
A mineral that is often used as a soil amendment to improve water retention and aeration.
Vacuum seeder
Synonyms:
- Seed vacuum planter
- Vacuum seeder machine
A machine used to sow seeds evenly and quickly, by using suction to pick up and place seeds.
Vapor pressure osmometer
Synonyms:
- Vapor pressure osmometry
- Vapor pressure depression
A device used to measure the osmolality of a solution by measuring the vapor pressure of the solvent.
VAM fungi
Synonyms:
- Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza
A type of mycorrhiza in which the fungal partner forms arbuscules and vesicles within the root cells of the plant partner.
Vertical integration
Synonyms:
- Vertical monopoly
- Vertical consolidation
A business strategy in which a company owns or controls multiple stages of production, from raw materials to finished products.
Venturi meter
Synonyms:
- Venturi tube
- Differential pressure flow meter
A device used to measure the flow rate of a fluid by creating a pressure difference.
Veterinary medicine
Synonyms:
- Animal health care
- Veterinary science
- Veterinary practice
The practice of medicine and surgery for animals, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
Vermifilter
Synonyms:
- Vermifiltration
- Worm filter
A type of filter that uses earthworms to break down organic matter and improve water quality in wastewater treatment systems.
Vapor pressure
Synonyms:
- Equilibrium vapor pressure
- Saturation vapor pressure
The pressure exerted by the vapor of a substance in a closed container.
Vertical farming
Synonyms:
- Vertical agriculture
- Vertical cultivation
A method of agriculture in which crops are grown in vertically stacked layers, often using hydroponic systems.
Vernalization
Synonyms:
- Winterization
- Cold treatment
The process of exposing certain plants to cold temperatures to induce flowering.
Virology
Synonyms:
- Virus biology
- Viral pathology
The study of viruses and their effects on living organisms.
Variety
Synonyms:
- Cultivar
- Hybrid
- Breed
A type or cultivar of a plant species that is distinguished by certain characteristics, such as yield, flavor, or disease resistance.
Vascular tissue
Synonyms:
- Vascular system
- Vascular bundle
The specialized tissue in plants that transports water, nutrients, and other substances throughout the plant.
Virus
Synonyms:
- Viral particle
- Virus particle
A tiny infectious agent that can only reproduce within a living host cell and can cause disease in plants and animals.
Vinegar
Synonyms:
- Acetic acid
- Sour wine
A sour liquid made from the fermentation of alcohol, often used as a condiment or for pickling.
Vermicide
Synonyms:
- Anthelmintic
- Dewormer
A substance or treatment that kills or expels intestinal worms in animals.
Vegetation
Synonyms:
- Flora
- Greenery
The plant life in a particular area or ecosystem.
Viticulture
Synonyms:
- Grape culture
- Winegrowing
The science and practice of grape cultivation for winemaking.
Vitamin
Synonyms:
- Micronutrient
- Essential vitamin
A nutrient that is essential for growth and maintenance of health in animals, often obtained through diet.
Vespine
Synonyms:
- Wasplike
- Hornetlike
Relating to or resembling a wasp or hornet.
W
Wastewater
Synonyms:
- Sewage
- Effluent
Water that has been used and contains pollutants or other contaminants.
Water cycle
Synonyms:
- Hydrologic cycle
- Water circulation
The continuous process by which water moves between the Earth’s surface, atmosphere, and oceans.
Water management
Synonyms:
- Water conservation
- Water use management
The practice of controlling and conserving water resources for agricultural, industrial, or other uses.
Water quality
Synonyms:
- Water purity
- Water grade
The measure of the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water, used to determine its suitability for various purposes.
Water table
Synonyms:
- Groundwater level
- Aquifer level
The level at which groundwater is found below the surface of the Earth.
Water use efficiency
Synonyms:
- Water productivity
- Water efficiency
The measure of how efficiently water is used in agriculture or other industries.
Weed
Synonyms:
- Unwanted plant
- Noxious weed
A plant that grows where it is not wanted and competes with desired crops or vegetation.
Wetland
Synonyms:
- Marsh
- Swamp
An area of land that is saturated with water and supports plants adapted to wet soil conditions.
Wheat
Synonyms:
- Triticum aestivum
- Bread grain
A cereal grain that is commonly used for human consumption and animal feed.
Windbreak
Synonyms:
- Shelterbelt
- Wind fence
A barrier of trees, shrubs, or other vegetation that is planted to protect crops or buildings from wind damage.
Wind energy
Synonyms:
- Wind power
- Wind-generated electricity
Energy generated by the movement of air across a turbine or windmill.
Wind erosion
Synonyms:
- Aeolian erosion
- Wind-driven erosion
The process by which wind removes and transports soil and sediment from one area to another.
Winter wheat
Synonyms:
- Hard red winter wheat
- Soft white winter wheat
A variety of wheat that is planted in the fall and harvested in the summer of the following year.
Worm composting
Synonyms:
- Vermicomposting
- Worm farming
The practice of using earthworms to decompose organic waste materials and create nutrient-rich compost.
Weed control
Synonyms:
- Weed management
- Weed suppression
The practice of preventing or eliminating unwanted plant species in agricultural or other land use settings.
Water pollution
Synonyms:
- Water contamination
- Water degradation
The contamination of water resources by various human and natural sources, often resulting in adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health.