The GrowMad Gardening Glossary and Jargon Buster» GrowMad

Soil acidity is measured on a scale of 1 to 14. Everything below 5.5 is considered to be acidic. Most garden plants thrive at a pH between 6 and 7.5.

Acotyledon A

A plant with no obvious cotyledon or seed leaves such as moss.

Acre A

A measure of land totalling 43,560 square feet; square acre is 208,75 feet on each side. An area of 4840 square yards.

Acrogen A

Plants such as ferns and mosses that grow from special growing points.

Acrogen A

Plants such as ferns and mosses that grow from special growing points.

Acrogen A

Plants such as ferns and mosses that grow from special growing points.

Acropetal A

The development of petals and flowers in an upward direction from the base. See also 'Basipetal'.

Acrospire A

The first leaf to emerge from a germinating seed.

Actinomorphic A

A flower that displays with radial symmetry, as in a daisy.

Actinomycetes A

Actinomycetes are bacteria that create the earthy aroma of good compost. Actinomycetes play a critical role in degrading the more complex woody materials in your compost.

Action Threshold A

The state at which a pest or disease is beyond the point where the plant can tolerate its existence without affecting the plant's growth rate and survival.

Acuminate A

A leaf that tapers to a rather long and narrow point.

Acute A

A leaf that terminates in a sharp point.

Acute Toxicity A

The injury that occurs shortly after exposure to a pesticide.

Adaptation A

How a plant evolves and adjusts to a new environment.

Adaxial A

Attached to the side facing the stem, the upper side of a leaf.

Adhesive Pads A

Tips of tendrils that can grip for support.

Adnate A

Attached all along the base, usually applied to a leaf segment.

Adpressed A

Pressed tightly together but not joined.

Adpressed-pilose A

Soft hairs lying flat against a leaf surface.

Adventitious A

A botanical term that describes a part of a plant eg. roots, that can appear in an area of the plant that they would not normally be produced.

Aecidial Cups A

The visible blisters of 'rust' on the underside of infected foliage.

Aeciospore A

A type of spore produced by the fungus that causes 'rust'.

Aerate A

Loosening or puncturing the soil to increase water and air penetration.

Aeration A

The presence of air space between soil particles.

Aerobe A

Microorganisms that require oxygen to survive.

Aerobic A

Usually describes a characteristic of compost heaps where composting is primarily driven by organisms living or occurring only in the presence of oxygen.

Aestivation A

The way the various parts of a flower are arranged inside a bud.

Afila A

A type of pea that is virtually leafless but has many tendrils.

After-grass A

A covering of grass or weed in stubble after a crop has been harvested. Also known as 'fog'.

Aggregates (soil) A

How soil particles are arranged and structured.

Aggregatusphere A

The sum of aggregates within the soil.

Aglet / Aiglet A

Hanging or pendulous catkins of willow or birch.

AGM A

Award of Garden Merit. An award bestowed upon an outstanding variety by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Agroforestry A

A land management approach that combines growing trees and crops together.

Agronomist A

Somebody that is considered an expert of soil management and crop development.

Agronomy A

A branch of agricultural science that deals with the study of crops.

Air layering A

A specialised method of plant propagation accomplished by cutting into the bark of the plant to induce new roots to form.

Air Pot A

A pot constructed from recycled plastic with holes on bottom and sides to allow for air pruning.

Air-Filled Porosity (AFP) A

The voids in the soil which are not filled with water.

Alate A

Wing-shaped as with sycamore seeds, helicopter-like.

Albumen A

The starchy material carried inside a seed.

Alburnum A

The most recently formed wood of a tree, more usually known as 'sapwood'.

Aleurone Layer A

The outermost layer of the endosperm of a seed.

Algae A

Simple plants that show up as a green film in damp areas.

Alginate A

A product derived from seaweed used as a soil amendment.

Alien A

A plant that is not native but has become established.

Alkaline soil A

Soil acidity is measured on a scale of 1 to 14. Everything above 7.0 is considered to be alkaline. Most garden plants thrive at a pH between 6 and 7.5.

Alkaloid A

A group of nitrogen-containing compounds found in some plants such as poppies.

Allele A

A specialised gene that carries particular inherited characteristics.

Allelopathy A

Suppression of growth of a particular plant by a toxin that is released from a nearby plant of the same or another species.

Alleochemical A

A chemical produced by a living organism that exerts a detrimental physiological effect on individuals of another species when released into the environment.

Allicin A

A compound found in garlic. It may help prevent certain cancers and may help lower blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure.

Allium A

A genus of plants that includes onion, garlic, shallot, leek and chives.

Allopolyploid A

An organism that contains two or more genomes derived from different species.

Allotment A

A plot of land made available for the growing of fruit and vegetables.

Allotmenteer A

A person that owns an allotment for the use of growing their own fruit and vegetables.

Alluvial A

Soil that is formed from silt left by receding rivers or tides.

Alpine House A

A greenhouse or covered area specifically for the growing of alpines.

Alpines A

Plants suited to growing in rock gardens.

Alternate A

Leaves on a stem that are attached at different heights creating an alternate arrangement. Not opposite.

Alternate Bearing A

Fruit trees that only bear fruit biannually. This is caused by the tree over fruiting in one season and resting in the following season. This can be avoided by thinning underdeveloped fruit.

Alternate Host A

Some pathogens need two plant species to complete their life cycles, hence the need for an alternate or secondary host.

Alternation of Generations A

The occurrence in a life cycle of two or more different forms, the offspring being unlike the parents.

Alternative Hosts A

Host plants other than the main host on which an organism can develop.

Alum A

Generally referring to aluminium sulphate that is sometimes used to lower soil pH.

Ameliorate A

To improve eg. to make poor soil better.

Amendment A

Soil amendment is the practice of improving the structure and quality of the soil.

Aminopyralid A

Aminopyralid is a selective herbicide used for control of broadleaf weeds, such as thistles and clovers. It is in the picolinic acid family of herbicides.

Ammonia A

A nitrogen compound used in the formation of synthetic fertilisers.

Ammonification A

The process of organic nitrogen being recycled after the death of a plant or animal.

Ammonium Nitrate A

A salt of ammonia and nitric acid widely used in the formulation of synthetic fertilisers.

Ammonium Sulphate A

A fast-acting crystalline source of Nitrogen, particularly suited to top dressing.

Amoeba A

A microscopic single-celled organism found in soil and water which reproduces by division.

Ampelography A

The science of identifying, describing and classifying grape vines and grape varieties.

Amphibious A

A plant such as watercress, that is capable of growing in both soil and water.

Amplexicaul A

A leaf that has a base wrapped around a stem.

Amsterdam Types A

A term used to describe small, early, snack-sized carrots.

Anaerobe A

A plant or microorganism which can only live in the absence of oxygen.

Anaerobic A

Usually describes a characteristic of compost heaps where composting is primarily driven by organisms living or occurring where oxygen is limited or absent.

Anamorph A

The imperfect or asexual stage of a fungus.

Anbury A

A disease of root crops similar to 'clubroot'. Also known as 'finger and toe' or 'clubbing'.

Androdioecious A

A plant that bears male-only flowers on some plants but male and female on others.

Androecium A

The male reproductive organ of a plant, responsible for producing pollen grains.

Androgonidium A

One of the male cells whose subsequent divisions produce spermatozoids.

Androphore A

An elongated stem carrying the stamens and carpels of some flowers.

Androspore A

Spores produced by algae resulting in male plants. See also 'androgonidium'.

Anemone-centred A

Flowers, usually of dahlia or chrysanthemums, that display a cushion-like centre.

Angiocarpous A

A fruit encased by an external shell or husk, such as an acorn.

Angiosperm A

Plants that produce flowers that bear seeds in their fruits.

Angle of Attachment A

The angle at which a shoot develops from the main stem.

Anion Exchange Capacity A

The sum total of exchangeable anions that soil can absorb.

Annelid A

Segmented worms including the earthworm.

Annual-Ring A

The ring of wood formed each growing season by trees and shrubs. Commonly used for the ageing of trees.

Annuals A

Plants whose life cycle lasts only one year, from seed to blooms to seed.

Annulate A

Consisting of rings, either in markings or formed of rings.

Annulus A

A ring of cells around sporangia in ferns.

Antagonists A

A Biological pest control organism that can change growing conditions so that plant pathogens are unable to flourish.

Antemarginal A

A zoning contained within a leaf, usually towards the edge.

Anterior A

A botanical term meaning 'front' or 'on the front of'.

Anther A

The part of a flower which produces pollen, the male sex cells of the plant.

Anther Sac A

The part of the anther that contains pollen.

Anthesis A

The period between the opening of a flower bud and the setting of fruit.

Anthocyanin A

Flavonoid glycoside pigments that impart red, purple, and blue colours to plant parts including foliage and fruits such as blueberries and raspberries.

Anthracnose A

A fungal disease that affects French and runner beans as well as cucumbers.

Anthracnose A

Affects dwarf beans, runner beans and cucumber.

Antipodean Four (The) A

A term used to describe the four most commercially available apple varieties bred in Australia and New Zealand. They are Jazz, Braeburn, Pink Lady and Gala.

Antonovka A

A rootstock used to produce full-size Crab apples. Mature size 4.5m+. A rootstock that is full-sized 100% standard.

Aperturate A

Having one or more openings or apertures, usually referring to pollen.

Apetalous A

A term applied to flowers that have no petals.

Apex A

The tip or growing point of a plant or tree.

Aphid A

A small sap-sucking insect such as blackfly or greenfly.

Apiaceous crops A

Crops that are characterised by their flower clusters or umbels; carrots, parsnips, celery, fennel, dill, parsley, coriander & chervil.

Apical Dominance A

When the apical bud dominates and restricts the growth of lateral buds.

Apical End/Bud A

The opposite end of a potato tuber to the attachment/heel end. Also known as 'Rose End'.

Apomictic A

Asexual reproduction, without fertilisation.

Apomixis A

Asexual production of ripe seeds. Offspring are identical to the parents.

Apothecium A

Cup-shaped fruiting body in some fungus.

Apple Day A

A chance to learn about different apple varieties and to taste a selection of apples, usually heritage varieties. The official 'apple day' is 21st October.

Apple Powdery Mildew A

A fungal disease affecting apples and to a lesser extent, pears and quince.

Apple Powdery Mildew A

Affects apples and to a lesser extent pear, quince and medlars.

Apple Rack A

A traditional storage method for apples, commonly constructed from wood.

Appressed / Adpressed A

A botanical term meaning closely pressed together often used for leaves which are closely pressed to the stem.

Arachnoid A

A botanic term meaning 'like a cobweb'.

Arboreal A

Resembling a tree, living in or on trees. Sometimes known as 'arborary' 'arboreous' or 'arborous'.

Arboreal A

Resembling a tree, living with trees. Sometimes known as arborary, arboreous, and arborous.

Arboretum A

An area of parkland devoted exclusively to trees and shrubs.

Arboriculture A

The process of cultivating and managing trees and shrubs.

Arbour A

A shady retreat often used in ornamental gardens for seating.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi A

Fungi that form symbiotic relationships with plants by penetrating the plants roots.

Archaea A

A group of single-celled organisms (prokaryotes) distinctly different to bacteria.

Archegonium A

The female reproductive organ of ferns and mosses.

Arcuate A

Leaves that are curved, bow-shaped or bent.

Arcure A

A European system of training fruit trees.

Arenaceous A

Sandy soil, also refers to plants that grow in sandy soils.

Areole A

The area enclosed by netted (anastomosing) veins.

Aristate A

Tapering to a very narrow apex or point, usually applied to leaves.

Armed A

When related to plants, meaning any plant that has spines, thorns or prickles.

Arpent A

An old French term used for measuring vineyards. 1 Arpent = 1 Acre.

Artichoke Type A

A type of softneck garlic originating from south-central Asia.

Ascending A

A term used to describe stems that are neither upright nor prostrate but curve upwards.

Ascocarp A

The fruiting body, or sporocarp, of an ascomycetous fungus.

Ascomycete A

A group of fungus that produce ascospores.

Ascus A

A round or slightly elongated organ found in certain fungi that contains spores.

Asexual A

Literally sexless. Without sex organs or sex spores. Propagation only possible by means of division, tissue culture, cuttings, layering, grafts, runners etc.

Asparagus Beetle A

A beetle that attacks asparagus foliage. The beetle and the larvae will both attack the plant, stripping foliage.

Asparagus Crown A

A one-year-old dormant asparagus plant used to establish an asparagus crop

Astringent A

A slightly acidic or bitter taste, such as blackcurrants.

Asymbiotic A

Different plant species that can not live in close association.

Atavistic A

A trait from an earlier form, or reverting to an earlier form.

Atmosphere A

The combination of gases that surrounds the earth.

Attenuate A

Gradually tapering to a longs lender point.

Auricle A

Ear-shaped lobe at the base of a leaf.

Autosome A

A chromosome other than a sex chromosome.

Autotrophic Nitrification A

A process in which ammonium is oxidised by bacteria and archaea and converted to nitrite and nitrate.

Autotrophs A

An organism that can produce its food using light, water, carbon dioxide, or other chemicals.

Auxanometer A

A piece of laboratory equipment used for measuring plant growth.

Auxin A

A hormone responsible for controlling plant growth.

Available Nutrient A

The amount of nutrient in the soil that is immediately available to a plant. This may be different from the total amount of nutrient in the soil.

Available Water (AW) A

The amount of water that is immediately available to a plant.

Awl-Shaped A

A leaf tapering to a fine or needle-like point.

Awn A

Any thread-like attachment to a fruit or seed. Also referring to the 'beard' on some grasses and cereals.

Axil A

The angle between a leaf stem and the supporting branch.

Axis A

The main part of a plant to which other parts are joined.

Azotobacter A

Atmospheric nitrogen fixing Bacteria found in compost heaps, that converts nitrogen into an accessible form for plants.

B-Horizon B

A mid-layer of the soil 'profile' usually referred to as subsoil.

B-Mox B

A seed enhancement formula developed by Bejo Zaden that stimulates root systems and vegetive growth.

B10 / Bud10 B

An extremely cold tolerant apple rootstock bred by Budagovsky in Russia. Formerly Bud 62-396. Production is similar to M9.

B118 / Bud118 B

An apple rootstock used to produce medium/semi vigorous trees with a mature height of 2.2 - 3m. Bred by Budagovsky in Russia. Formerly Bud 54-118.

B9 / Bud9 B

An apple rootstock used to produce small/dwarf trees, slightly smaller (10%) than M9. A variety bred in the Soviet Union as a result of an M8 x 'Red Standard' cross. Good frost resistance.

Baccate B

Berry-like in form or having or bearing berries.

Back-cross B

Progeny or next generation as a result of a cross between a hybrid and one of its parents.

Back-end B

The later part of the year/growing season, usually referring to October onwards.

Backfilling B

The task of replacing soil excavated from a planting hole or trench after planting.

Bacterial Soft Rot (potatoes) B

Badgers B

Badgers will do most harm by simply trampling and digging plants up but are partial to sweetcorn and apples.

Bagging Hook B

A tool similar to a bill hook or sickle.

Ball Barrow B

A wheelbarrow that has the wheel replaced by a inflated ball, invented by James Dyson.

Ballerina B

Similar to a minarette tree but now a little outdated.

Bamboo Cane B

Plant support produced as a by-product of the bamboo plant

Band Application B

The application of fertiliser in or around the root zone.

Barcillus thuringiensis (Bt) B

Barcillus thuringiensis (Bt) are naturally found in soil and create toxins that are delivered to pest larvae. The toxins cause the insect gut to disintegrate resulting in the death of the pest. There are many types with each having a different target pest.

Bare Root B

Plants offered for sale which have had all of the soil removed from their roots.

Bark B

The corky outer layer of trees.

Bark-bound B

A condition in which the bark of a tree cannot expand as the tree grows and ultimately strangles it.

Bark-Ringing B

The controlled removal of bark on fruit trees to control rigorous growth.

Basal B

A term usually referring to lower leaves of a plant.

Basal Placentation B

The placenta gets developed on the base of the ovaries in which the single ovule has been attached. This is visible in marigold flowers in their unilocular ovaries.

Basal Shoot B

Shoots that develop from ground level.

Basal Sinus B

The lowest sinus on a leaf.

Base Heat B

Heat applied to the underside of propagators.

Basic Slag B

A byproduct of the iron and steel industry used as a fertiliser. It has a high phosphorus and manganese content.

Basidiomycete B

Fungus producing basidiospores e.g. mushrooms.

Basidiospore B

A spore bourne at the end of a basidium.

Basidium B

Spore-bearing part of some fungi.

Basifixed B

Referring to an anther attached to the filament at its base.

Basipetal B

Growth or development downwards towards the base or point of attachment. Also known as 'acropetal'.

Basiscopic B

Facing towards the base.

Bast / Bass B

The inner bark of trees, usually lime trees, cut and dried and turned into matting.

Bastard Trenching B

See double digging.

Batter B

The tapering shape of a formal hedge. Thicker at the base than at the top.

Bead B

The smallest flowering part of a broccoli floret.

Beak B

A term used to describe the elongation of fruits and pistils.

Bean Seed Beetle B

Bean Seed Fly B

Delia platura, the larvae can attack the seeds, roots or developing shoots of runner and french beans but also brassicas, courgettes, lettuce and onions. The flies can produce up to 5 generations per year.

Bed Out B

To plant out in a bed.

Bedding Plant B

An annual plant, usually flowering, used for temporary beds of colour.

Beefsteak (tomato) B

A large ribbed tomato ideal for slicing.

Beet Leaf Miner B

Beetle B

A heavy mallet used for driving in posts.

Beit Alpha B

A type of cucumber originating from the Middle East, sometimes sold as an individual variety. Also known as Lebanese cucumber.

Bell Cloche B

Also known as a 'Bell Glass' an individual cloche based on an old French design, that covers a single plant.

Bell Jar B

A glass dome used by Victorian gardeners to protect crops, similar to 'Bell Coche'.

Beneficial Insect B

An insect that performs valued services that would include pest control and pollination.

Benthos B

Plants living in the sea that are attached to the sea bed.

Berlicum B

A type of carrot.

Berry B

A fruit of a plant or tree that does not contain a stone.

Besom B

A broom made from birch twigs.

Betacyanin B

The red pigment found in beetroot.

Betalain B

The red or yellow pigment found in beetroot often used as colour additive.

Betaxanthin B

The yellow or orange pigment found in beetroot.

Bhindi B

Another name for Okra.

Bibaum B

The Bibaum training system is characterised by two balanced and symmetric leaders on one trunk. The division of the growth among two leaders offers numerous advantages in the production.

Biennial B

A plant that takes two years to complete its biological life cycle. Flowering or harvesting takes place after a cold period (vernalisation)

Biennial Bearing B

When a fruit tree only fruits every other year. This is due to the tree cropping too heavily in one year.

Big Bud Mite B

Cecidophyopsis ribis, cause the swelling of the buds in blackcurrants. The mites that emerge in spring are also the vectors of Blackcurrant reversion virus.

Binomial Nomenclature B

Binomial nomenclature is the system of scientifically naming organisms developed by Carl Linnaeus.

Bio-aggressors B

Undesirables, including weeds, fungi, insects, diseases etc.

Bio-enhancer B

Bio-enhancers are substances which increase the bioavailability leading to increased bioefficacy. With its main purpose to enhance the uptake of nutrients and to act as a soil conditioner.

Bio-Fumigation B

A natural approach using specific plants that contain active gaseous compounds for the control of soil-borne pests and diseases

Bio-Insecticide B

An organic insecticide that is bacteria, viral or fungal based.

Bio-Stimulant B

Micro-organisms that are applied to plants and soils to improve crop vigour, quality, tolerance to pest and disease stress and overall yield.

Bioactive Metabolites B

Forms of chemicals found in small amounts in plants. Bioactive compounds have actions in the body that may promote good health.

Bioaugmentation B

A technique of bioremediation in which strains of natural or genetically engineered bacteria with unique metabolic profiles are used to treat contaminated water or soil.

Bioavailability B

The amount of an element or compound that is available to an organism for uptake.

Biochar B

Biochar is a charcoal-like substance that's made by burning organic material from agricultural and forestry wastes (also called biomass) in a controlled process called pyrolysis. It is a highly useful product for soil amendment.

Biodegradable B

A substance that is capable of being broken down by soil bacteria or other organisms.

Biodegradable Mulch B

A mulch that is used for weed suppression that will eventually degrade with UV exposure and be broken down by soil bacteria or other organisms.

Biodegradation B

The breakdown of organic matter by bacteria and fungi.

Biodiversity B

The variety of living organisms in a particular habitat.

Biofortification B

The process by which the nutrient density of food crops is increased through conventional plant breeding, and/or improved agronomic practices.

Biogeochemical Cycle B

The movement and transformation of chemical elements and compounds between living organisms, the atmosphere, and the Earth's crust.

Biogeochemical Cycling B

The transformation and cycling of elements between living and non-living, such as from plants to the atmosphere.

Bioinoculant B

Microbial amendments that when added to the soil, enable a plant to directly or indirectly improve the uptake of available nutrients.

Biological Control B

Method of controlling pests and diseases using naturally occurring organisms.

Biological Diversity B

A broad term for everything living, from cells, microorganisms, plants, animals and complete eco-systems such as forests and coral reefs.

Biological Nitrogen Fixation B

The term used for the process in which nitrogen from the atmosphere is incorporated into the tissue of legumes (peas and beans).

Biomass B

The total weight and volume of a plant.

Biophotons B

Biophotons are emissions of biologic chemiluminescence in which photons are emitted as part of chemical reactions occurring during metabolic processes.

Biopores B

Biopores are voids in the soil which were formed by the activity of soil life.

Bioremediation B

The use of either naturally occurring or deliberately introduced microorganisms to consume and break down environmental pollutants, in order to clean a polluted site.

BioRise B

BioRise™ 2 is a microbial seed coating combined of Acceleron B-300 and Acceleron B-360 ST. The first inoculant releases phosphate bound in the soil, while the second enhances mycorrhizal colonization which can increase water and nutrient uptake through the roots.

Biosphere B

The total of all living organisms and all ecosystems.

Biotic B

A biotic component is a living organism that helps to shape an ecosystem. Examples include animals, plants, fungi and bacteria.

Biotroph B

An organism entirely dependent upon another living organism (the host) as a source of nutrients.

Bioturbation B

The process whereby plant residues are mixed into soil by biotic activity such as earthworms.

Bioyield-enhancer B

Bioyield-enhancers are derived from naturally-occurring microbes like bacteria and fungi. These microbial inoculants complement traditional fertilizers and ultimately improve crop yields.

Bipinnate B

A plant having small leaves that are further divided into smaller leaflets.

Bittenfelder B

A rootstock used to produce full-size Crab apples. Mature size 4.5m+. A rootstock that is full-sized 100% standard.

Bitter Fruits B

Bitter Pit B

Slightly sunken brown spots will appear on apples caused by calcium deficiency. Affected fruits will have a bitter taste.

Bitter Pit B

Black Bean Aphid B

A black aphid that affects broad beans in particular. The growing tips can often be covered in the aphid at flowering time.

Black Bean Aphid B

Black Dot (potatoes) B

Black Gold B

An organic plant fertiliser.

Black Mould (alliums) B

Black Plastic Mulch B

The use of a back plastic film to suppress weeds and maintain moisture. It can also be used for vegetable blanching.

Black Scurf (potatoes) B

Blackcurrant Gall Midge B

Dasineura tetensi, the larvae affects blackcurrants and distorts developing foliage. The flies lay eggs producing 3 generations a year during late April to early June, late June to early July, and late July to August.

Blackfly B

Blackheart (potatoes) B

Blackrot (brassicas) B

Blade B

Main part of a leaf or frond.

Blanch B

Use of a covering to exclude light, resulting in a paled vegetable.

Blanching B

A cooking process where fruit or vegetables are briefly boiled followed by plunging into cold water to halt the cooking process prior to freezing.

Bleeding B

The leaching of plant sap, often used in relation to the leaking of cut or damaged beetroot.

Blight B

A serious fungal disease affecting tomatoes and potatoes in particular. There are both early and late blights.

Blight Resistant B

A plant species or individual variety that has a resistance to blight.

Blocking Machine B

A device that creates a peat block for the purpose of plant propagation.

Blocky B

A term used to describe the 'squarish' shape of a traditional pepper.

Blossom Bag B

A fine mesh bag commonly used for covering flowers to exclude insects and other pollinators. Commonly used in plant breeding.

Blossom Bagging B

The practice of placing blossom bags over flowers to exclude insects and other pollinators. Commonly used in plant breeding and for collecting your own seed.

Blossom Drop B

The process of a plant shedding its flowers. This can be caused by heat, cold, or drought stress.

Blossom End Rot B

A physiological disorder that affects fruiting crops such as tomatoes and peppers, resulting in greenish-brown circular patches at the end of the fruit. It is caused by irregular watering and a lack of calcium.

Blossom End Rot B

Blossom Load B

The total amount of blossom on a plant or tree. Some fruit trees require 'blossom thinning' to reduce the number of fruits per tree.

Blossom Thinning B

Removing some of a fruit trees blossom to reduce over-cropping. This can help to avoid biennial fruiting.

Blossom Wilt B

BNF B

Abbreviation for Biological Nitrogen Fixation.

Bokashi B

A domestic process of converting household food waste into a soil amendment.

Bole B

The thickest part of a tree trunk.

Bolting B

When a plant prematurely runs to seed, when it is under stress.

Bolting B

Bonemeal B

Organic slow release fertiliser created from coarsely ground animal bones and provides a useful source of phosphorous and calcium.

Borax B

An outdated fertiliser and insecticide.

Bordeaux Mixture B

A copper-based fungicide.

Borecole B

A more traditional name for Kale.

Boron Deficiency B

Boswell Heat Scale B

Devised by Colin Boswell from the Garlic Farm on the Isle of Wight, it measures the 'heat' or flavour strength of individual garlic varieties.

Botanical Insecticide B

A plant-based insecticide.

Bothy B

A basic shelter traditionally used for gardeners and estate workers.

Botrytis B

Bottle-Top Waterer B

An adaptation for a spent squash bottle, allowing intimate watering of seedlings and young plants.

Bottom Heat B

The process of applying heat to the underside of a propagating area.

Bract B

Often confused with a flower, but in fact a modified leaf.

Branch Collar B

The thickened ring at the base of a branch.

Branch Leader B

The leading shoot of a branch.

Branched-Head Standard B

A tree with a clear stem and a branched crown.

Brassica B

A genus of plants that includes cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels, kale, calabrese, broccoli, etc. Also known as cruciferous vegetables.

Brassica Leaf Miner B

Break B

A term used to describe when a bud starts to develop into flower.

Break Crop B

A crop grown in rotation with other crops to improve the growing conditions of the following crop.

Breastwood B

Shoots which grow forward from fruit trees trained against a wall or as espaliers.

Brix B

The measure of the sugar content of a fruit or vegetable. Usually associated with tomatoes.

Broad Fork B

Forming a U-shape, the base generally consists of at least 12 inches of metallic tines spaced a few inches apart on a horizontal bar, which connects to two handles that extend to chest level.

Broad Forking B

To use a 'Broad Fork' to cultivate and aerate soil or lawns.

Broad Leaf B

This refers to big leaf weeds, as opposed to grasses which are narrow.

Broad Spectrum Herbicide B

A herbicide that is effective on all weeds.

Broad-Spectrum B

A herbicide that can kill a number of common weeds as opposed to selective.

Broadcasting B

To scatter seed or fertiliser randomly, rather than precision placed.

Broccoli Necrotic Yellows Virus (BNYV) B

Brown Rot B

Brown Scale B

Bruising B

Brutting B

An old practice of summer pruning hazel trees.

Buckthorn Potato Aphid B

Aphis nasturtii, a sap-sucking pest that affects several crops including peppers and aubergines but particularly potatoes. Severe infestations can retard growth but the main issue is the spread of viruses.

Bud B

An undeveloped shoot or flower.

Bud Drop B

When plants or trees shed buds or early flower development due to issues including drought, cold, overwatering or fungal disease.

Bud Union B

Also known as a graft union, it is the region where a section of plant is grafted onto a rootstock.

Budagovski series B

A series of apple rootstocks (Bud or B series) that were developed in Russia by Dr Valentin Ivanovich Budagovski for their cold hardiness.

Budding B

A method of grafting.

Buffered B

A substance that has been used to stabilise pH.

Bulb B

A botanical structure that stores plants food during dormancy.

Bulbils B

Small or tiny bulbs.

Bullate B

A botanical term used to describe a puckered or blistered appearance.

Burgundy Mixture B

An outdated chemical closely associated with Bordeaux Mixture.

Burr B

A deformed raised area on a tree.

Bush variety B

A variety that has a tendency to stay short and compact.

Bushel B

A dry measure equivalent to 8 gallons (36.3687 litres) or 1.28 cubic feet (0.036 cu m).

Buttons B

A term referring to brussels sprouts.

C-Horizon C

The layer in a soil profile below subsoil. Also called 'Parent Material'.

C:N Ratio C

The ratio of carbon (C) to nitrogen (N) in soil, usually referring to the balance between these two elements in a compost heap.

Cabbage Moth C

Cabbage Root Fly C

Cabbage Stem Weevil C

Cabbage Whitefly C

Calcareous C

Containing chalk or lime.

Calcicole C

A plant that prefers alkaline conditions (lime-loving).

Calcifuge C

A plant that prefers acidic conditions, has a disliking of chalk or lime.

Calcitric Lime C

Lime derived from limestone containing primarily calcium carbonate.

Calcium Deficiency C

Callus C

The growth that forms naturally over a cut or wound.

Calm C

The hollow stem of a grass or bamboo.

Calyx C

The outermost part of a flower or sepals.

Cambium C

A layer of actively dividing cells between xylem and phloem tissues that is responsible for the secondary growth of stems.

Campanulate C

A bell-shaped flower.

Cane C

An implement used for plant support, usually made from bamboo. See also, Raspberry Cane.

Cane Spot C

Canker C

A fungal disease that causes damage to the bark of apple and other fruit trees.

Canker C

Canopy C

The top part of a tree consisting of its branches and leaves.

Cantaloupe C

A type of Melon.

Capillary Action C

The movement of water from the root system to the rest of the plant.

Capillary Matting C

Matting made from a fabric that absorbs water and acts as a reservoir for plants to draw moisture from as required.

Capsaicin C

A capsaicinoid compound found in chilli peppers that give them their pungency or heat.

Capsid Bug C

Carbon Sequestration C

Soil carbon (C) sequestration is the transfer of atmospheric Carbon Dioxide into soil through plants.

Carbon/Nitrogen Ratio C

Refers to the C:N Ratio, a balance between carbon and nitrogen ratios in a compost heap. The perfect compost heap should contain roughly 30 parts of carbon, to 1 part nitrogen. Carbon might include leaf or wood chip, nitrogen would include grass cuttings or horse muck.

Carotene C

Carotenes are responsible for the orange colour in carrots, sweet potatoes and certain types of melon.

Carotenoid C

Yellow, orange, or red soluble pigments that give fruit and vegetables their colour.

Carpel C

The female area of a flower consisting of stigma, style and ovary.

Carposphere C

The surface area of fruits.

Carrot Fly C

Carrotcino C

An Australian fad whereby a carrot is carved out to act as a holder/server for coffee. (I know what you are thinking).

Carucate C

An ancient term referring to an area of land that a team of oxon were capable of ploughing in one year.

Casaba C

A type of Melon.

Cash Crop C

A crop grown for sale or consumption rather than a cover crop that is grown to improve soil organic matter.

Catch Crop C

A crop that is produced in between the main crop where the ground may have otherwise been left empty. Examples may include green manures or very quick maturing crops like radish.

Caterpillars C

Catfacing C

A physiological disorder affecting tomatoes that manifests as corky scars and irregular concavities in the fruit. This is caused by variable growing temperatures while the fruit is developing.

Cation C

A positively charged ion.

Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) C

Cation exchange capacity is a measure of the soil’s ability to hold positively charged ions. It is a very important soil property influencing soil structure stability, nutrient availability, soil pH and the soil’s reaction to fertilisers and other ameliorants (Hazleton and Murphy 2007).

Catkin C

A flower cluster found on certain trees such as Willow.

Cauliflory C

A botanical term referring to plants that flower and fruit from their main stems or woody trunks rather than from new growth and shoots.

Cauliflower Mosaic Virus (CaMV), C

Caulosphere C

The area of stem surfaces on plants. Microbes here can help protect the plant from stem-boring insects and diseases.

Celery Leaf Miner C

Central-Leader Standard C

A standard tree where the leader is still dominant.

Certified seed/plants C

Seeds or plants that are grown under stringent production criteria.

CFU C

Abbreviation for 'Colony Forming Units'. The number of living and active microorganisms in a sample.

Chafer Grubs C

Chain C

An outdated measurement of length equal to 66 feet or 20.12 m.

Chalk C

A term that refers to lime-rich soils that have a pH above 7.

Chantenay C

A type of carrot.

Chelant C

A chemical compound that forms stable, water-soluble complexes on reaction with metal ions. Sometimes referred to as a sequestrant.

Chelate C

A compound containing a ligand (typically organic) bonded to a central metal atom at two or more points.

Chelated C

When molecules bind to metal ions to make micronutrients, such as iron, more readily available to plants.

Chelated Nutrient C

A micronutrient ion, such as Iron (Fe) that is surrounded by a larger molecule called a ligand or chelator.

Chelating Agent C

A chemical compound that binds tightly to metal ions eg. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA). Also known as a Sequesrant.

Chelation C

The process of keeping a micronutrient from undesirable reactions in solution and soil.

Chelator C

A binding agent (Ligand) that suppresses chemical activity by forming chelates.

Chemical Load C

The amount of active ingredient contained within a chemical product.

Chemoheterotrophs C

Organisms that obtain their energy from the oxidation of organic compounds.

Chemosynthesiser C

An organism that creates organic matter with energy derived from a chemical reaction.

Chemotrophic C

An organism that oxidises chemical compounds to gain its source of energy.

chemotropism c

The way in which a plants growth is determined by chemical application eg, a growth regulator.

Cherry (tomato) C

A cherry-sized tomato ideal for snacking.

Cherry Plum (tomato) C

A cherry-sized plum-shaped tomato.

Chestnut Compound C

An outdated chemical compound used for various fungal diseases.

Chicon C

The edible pale green or reddish shoot resulting from the forcing of a chicory root.

Chilling Requirement C

A cool period required by some seeds/plants to initiate germination/flowering. See also 'Vernalisation'.

Chip C

A shallow tray used to harvest fruit and vegetables into.

Chit (to) C

The process of allowing potatoes to produce eyes or chits known as 'Chitting' which enables a faster-maturing crop once planted.

Chitting C

The process of prematurely sprouting a seed potato ahead pf planting. This process enables earlier harvests.

Chlorophyll C

A green photosynthetic pigment found in plant cells.

Chloroplasts C

Structures within the cells of plants where photosynthesis takes place.

Chlorosis C

The loss of the green colouration within plant foliage usually caused by iron or magnesium deficiency.

Chlorosis C

Chlorotic C

Showing symptoms of chlorosis.

Chocolate Spot C

Chronic Toxicity C

A severe negative reaction within a plant caused by another substance.

Ciliate C

A botanical term applied to leaves fringed with hairs.

Cladode C

A flattened leaf-like stem that still carries flowers.

Clamp C

A traditional method of storing root vegetables such as potatoes, that comprises a layer of straw covered with soil.

Clasping C

A leaf that wholly surrounds the stem from which it grows.

Clathrate C

The scales of a fern that have a lattice appearance.

Clay C

The smallest mineral particle of soil structure.

Clear Plastic Mulch C

A mulch that is translucent and admits light.

Cleft Graft C

A method of grafting.

Cleistogamic C

A flower that remains closed and is self-pollinating.

Cloche C

A covering for horticultural crops, either made from plastic or more traditionally, glass. A cloche is used to protect crops from inclement weather and to advance cropping.

Clone C

Something that is genetically identical to the material used to create it.

Clove C

The individual bulbs that makeup garlic.

Clubroot C

CMS C

See Cytoplasmic Male Sterility.

CNR C

An abbreviation for Crop Nutrient Requirement.

Coated Seed C

Seed that has been coated with a substance to enhance germination and improve growth.

Cocktail (tomato) C

A tomato that is smaller than a traditional variety but larger than a cherry or grape tomato.

Coconut Fibre C

See 'Coir'.

Codling Moth C

Coeur de Boeuf (tomato) C

A highly ribbed type of French tomato sometimes referred to as 'Oxheart' tomato.

Coir C

A material derived from the outer husk of coconuts.

Cold Composting C

A composting technique that does not require the compost heap to heat up. Cold composting is an easier to manage technique but is slower to reach fruition than hot composting.

Cold Season Crops C

Crops that are tolerant of frost eg. Brussels, leeks, parsnips.

Cold Tolerant C

A plant or variety that shows tolerance to cold but not necessarily frost.

Coldframe C

A garden structure commonly used for raising young plants and for 'hardening off' ahead of planting outside.

Cole Crops C

A term used to describe crops belonging to the brassica family, such as cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli etc.

Coleoptile C

The protective sheath surrounding an emerging shoot.

Colloid C

A substance where microscopic particles are dispersed throughout another substance.

Colorado Beetle C

Comfrey C

A plant commonly used to make liquid fertiliser for organic vegetable production.

Common Scab (potatoes) C

Companion Planting C

The practice of planting two or more plant types in close proximity together. This is designed to deter pests and to attract pollinators.

Complete Fertiliser C

A fertiliser that contains all essential nutrients for quality plant growth.

Compost C

A type of growing medium or soil amendment.

Compost Accelerator C

An additional ingredient that is added to a compost heap to speed and assist in its decomposition.

Compost Bin C

A container or construction used to make and hold homemade compost.

Compost Heap C

A heap of garden and kitchen waste allowed to decompose into a usable medium for garden uses.

Compost Pellet C

A compressed pellet of compost, used for plant propagation, encased in a biodegradable net outer layer. The pellet will return to a useable state once soaked in water.

Compost Tea C

A liquid feed made from the contents of a compost heap.

Compound Flower C

A flower which consists of a number of separate florets united in one single head.

Concolorous C

Uniformly coloured.

Confluent C

Merging together.

Consumer Asset C

A quality trait found within a fruit or vegetable that benefits the end-user eg, good shelf life of a product.

Contact C

Referring to a chemical whose mode of action is made by contact rather than systemic.

Contact Herbicide C

A herbicide that only affects the part of a plant that it comes into contact with and has no systemic capabilities.

Contiguous C

Leaf margins that touch each other.

Conventional Till C

The traditional method of preparing soil or seed beds by ploughing or digging.

Cool Season Crop C

A crop that is suited to colder climates. Examples would include Brussels Sprouts or Parsnips.

Copper Deficiency C

Coppice C

An area of woodland that contains 'coppiced' trees.

Coppicing C

A pruning technique that removes virtually all wood back to ground level.

Coral Spot C

Cordate C

Heart-shaped leaf.

Cordon C

A fruit tree, usually an apple or pear, pruned to produce a single stem with short lateral branches.

Coriaceous C

To have a leathery texture.

Corm C

A swollen underground plant stem used for plant energy storage.

Corolla C

The inner leafy whorl of a flower composed of the petals.

Corona C

Any appendage which separates the corolla of a flower from its anther.

Corymb C

A flat-topped flower cluster.

Cot Split C

A term used to describe a particular point in the devolpment of a plum bud.

Cotyledon C

The first leaf or set of leaves that sprout from a seed.

Cover Crop C

A crop, usually green manure, grown on a plot of land between further cultivation. The cover crop can stop soil erosion, suppress weeds and help with moisture retention. Once incorporated into the soil, it will help improve soil structure and fertility.

CPI C

See Critical Points of Influence.

Cracking C

A splitting of the skin on fruit often associated with, water uptake, humidity, temperature or poor varietal genetics.

Creasy Greens C

A crop similar to water cress. Sometimes known as upland cress or winter cress.

Crenate C

A botanical term used to describe a leaf with margins of smooth-rounded teeth.

Creole Type C

A type of hardneck garlic (genetically softneck but produces a weak flowering stem) originating from France and Spain.

Critical Points of Influence C

A term coined by John Kempf, founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture, in which he describes the 'window in a plant's growth cycle in which a great deal of its future yield potential or disease susceptibility is being determined'

Crocks C

Broken pots or concrete placed into the bottom of a planting container to aid drainage.

Crome C

A type of rake, a cross between a fork and a rake often used for clearing ditches.

Crome (to) C

The process of preparing the soil or clearing ditches with a crome.

Crook Stage C

The stage at which onion seedlings emerge after sowing and take on a 'looped' appearance.

Crookneck Sqaush C

A yellow summer squash nearer to a courgette than a pumpkin or winter squash.

Crop Cycle C

The time a particular vegetable type takes to mature from planting.

Crop Desiccant C

Chemicals applied to growing crops to force die down.

Crop Desiccation C

The chemical termination and forced die down of a growing crop.

Crop Load C

See Fruit Loading.

Crop Residue C

The remains of a previous crop.

Crop Rotation C

The practise of growing different vegetable groups on different plots of land each growing season. For example, brassicas might be followed by alliums and legumes might be followed by cucurbits. This helps to deter a build-up of particular diseases and potential leaching of certain soil nutrients.

Crop Turnaround C

A term used to calculate the number of days or weeks a particular crop takes to finish harvesting from sowing/planting.

Cross-Fertilise C

Pollination of plants within the same species.

Cross-Pollinate C

Pollination between two plants.

Crotch C

The point at which the main trunk of a tree divides into branches.

Crown C

The part of a plant where the stems join the root.

Crown (Tree) C

The branched part of a tree above the trunk.

Crown Bud C

The main central bud in a flower cluster.

Crown Lifting C

The removal of branches on a tree to leave a clear trunk beneath the crown.

Crown Reduction C

To Remove some of the branches from the crown of a tree to reduce crown size.

Crown roots C

Roots that emerge from the base of the stem of the plant rather than the seed.

Crown Rot C

Crown Thinning C

Similar to crown reduction aimed at allowing more light into the tree canopy.

Crozier C

The young leaf of a fern as it starts to uncurl. Sometimes known as a 'fiddle head'.

Crucifer C

A group of vegetables that belong to the brassica family. Sometimes known as 'Cruciferous' vegetables.

Cruciferous C

See 'Crucifer'.

Cryptogam C

A plant that reproduces by spores.

Cucumber Mosaic Virus C

Cucurbit C

A family of crops that includes, cucumber, courgette, squash, melon, marrow etc.

Culm C

The aerial stem of a grass or sedge. It is derived from the Latin culmus, meaning stalk.

Cultivar C

A variety that has been produced by selective breeding.

Cultivate C

To prepare ground and to grow crops.

Cultural Control C

A method of preventing pest or disease attack through cultural methods of production rather than by using synthetic chemical control.

Cultural Weed Control C

Control of weeds by cultural and mechanical methods rather than by synthetic chemical control.

Cuneate C

Wedge-shaped.

Curcurbitacae C

The family of species that includes, cucumber, courgette, marrow, melon, squash etc.

Curd C

The harvestable part of a cauliflower.

Cure/Curing C

A period of ripening fruit or vegetables after harvest to aid storage.

Currant Lettuce Aphid C

Cuspidate C

Narrowing abruptly to a point.

Cut and Come Again C

A vegetable that can be harvested over several cropping periods. Once harvested, the plant is capable of regenerating.

Cuticle C

A protecting film covering the epidermis of leaves.

Cutting C

A section of a plant, either tip, leaf or root, used for the purpose of propagating further plant material.

Cutworm C

Cybrids C

Cybrids are cells or plants containing the nucleus of one species but cytoplasm from both the parental species.

Cycle Time C

The number of days a particular crop takes from planting to maturity.

Cyclic Lighting C

A system of lighting that switches on for a short period of 5 minutes every 15-20 minutes. The plant that it is being applied to still benefits from what it thinks is a continuous period of light.

Cylindrical C

A type of carrot.

Cytokinins C

A group of phytohormones that promote cell division within plants.

Cytoplasmic Male Sterility C

Cytoplasmic Male Sterility. An improved method of hybridising in Cauliflower that protects inbred lines.

Damage Threshold D

The point at which a pest or disease is damaging a crop beyond the point of economic control.

Damping Down D

The process of wetting the greenhouse or polytunnel floor to increase humidity.

Damping off D

A fungal disease caused by several different pathogens that cause seedlings or very young plants to die off.

Damping Off D

Dark Leafspot (brassicas) D

Day Neutral D

A plant that will flower and fruit under any light levels and is not dependent on day length.

Days to Maturity D

A term used to determine the number of days to peak harvest of a particular variety, usually from transplanting, rather than sowing date.

Dead Head D

A term used to describe the removal of dead or past their best flower heads.

Decay D

To decompose via the actions of fungi and bacteria.

Decay Cycle D

The process of a living organism being gradually decayed or composted by various bacteria and fungi.

Deciduous D

A tree or shrub that does not retain foliage during winter.

Decompose D

The process of something being broken down into smaller pieces by decaying.

Decumbent D

A botanical term used to describe roots that lie on the ground before turning upwards.

Deficiency D

When a plant lacks a particular nutrient or mineral, eg iron deficiency.

Defoliate D

When a plant, tree or shrub loses its foliage.

Dehiscence D

The opening of the sporangium of a fern to release spores.

Dehiscent D

A mature seed pod that opens to discharge its content.

Deleterious Microorganisms D

Microorganisms that cause harm such as pathogenic fungi and are generally unwanted.

Deliquesce D

To become liquid, typically during decomposition.

Deliquescence D

The process by which a substance absorbs moisture from the atmosphere until it dissolves in the absorbed water and forms a solution.

Demineralisation D

Where soil has lost some of its mineral content and become imbalanced resulting in loss of soil fertility.

Denitrification D

The loss of nitrogen or nitrogen compounds in the soil by microbial action. Usually, nitrates are converted to nitrogen and lost to atmosphere.

Dent Stage D

A dried sweetcorn kernel.

Dentate D

A leaf with a coarsely serrated edge.

Denticulate D

Finely dentate.

Dermal Exposure D

The exposure of skin to chemicals that have been applied either to the soil or plants.

Derris D

An outdated insecticide derived from certain tropical plants.

Desiccate D

To remove moisture.

Determinate D

Plants, usually referring to tomatoes, that grow to a defined size with fruits that mature at approximately the same time. (See also indeterminate)

Detrital Food Chain D

Food derived from dead material.

Detritivore D

Any organism that feeds on dead organic material or 'detritus'.

Detritus D

Decaying plant material.

Detritusphere D

The area of the soil surface occupied by dead and decaying plants and soil biota.

Developed Soil D

As minerals are weathered over time, they change into a soil that can be used for crop production. This has now become 'developed' soil.

Diamond Back Moth D

Dibber D

A tool used to make a hole in the soil or compost for planting.

Dichotomous D

Branching in two.

Dickeya (potatoes) D

Dicotyledon D

A flowering plant that has an embryo with two cotyledons (seed leaves).

Dicumbent D

A rhizome that lays flat or trails on the ground with a turned-up tip.

Die Back D

A symptom of a disease that causes a gradual dying off of shoots or branches from their tips.

Dieback D

Diffusion gradient D

The net movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Digging D

The process of turning the soil.

Digitate D

A hand-like leaf shape, as with the Horse Chestnut leaf.

Dimorphic D

Having two forms - fertile and sterile.

Dioecious D

Having male flowers on one plant and female flowers on another plant of the same species.

Dioecious plant D

See Dioecious.

Diploid D

A plant with the normal number of chromosomes for its species.

Direct drilling D

Drilling seed into ground with minimal cultivation.

Direct Sow D

When seed is sown into the final growing on area.

Dirty Dozen D

The 12 commercially grown fruits and vegetables found in supermarkets with the highest levels of insecticide and other chemical contamination.

Disbudding D

To thin flowers or fruit to allow for a stronger harvest of larger fruits.

Disease D

A disorder that results in loss of growth, quality or premature death.

Disorders D

Dissected D

A deeply divided leaf.

Distal D

The part of a leaf farthest away from the point of attachment.

Distribution Asset D

A commercial term that refers to a fruit or vegetable having the ability to be handled and moved through the distribution system from field to shop with minimal damage.

Diurnal Temperature Range (DTR) D

The temperature variation within a single day reflects the difference between maximum and minimum temperatures.

Divergent D

Growing apart of spreading out.

Dividing D

To take a section of root and split it into one or more divisions or pieces.

Division D

The resulting product after the practice of dividing.

Dolomitic Lime D

A lime containing not only calcium carbonate but also magnesium carbonate. It is useful for increasing pH levels where there is also a magnesium deficiency.

Dolphin Fly D

An old name for blackfly, particularly the species affecting broad beans.

Dormancy D

A plant or trees dormant period.

Dormant Period D

A period, usually during winter, when plants and trees become inactive with little or no growth. Some plants may have their dormancy during summer.

Double Cordon D

A tree trained with two parallel main stems rather than just one.

Double Digging D

A technique used to open up soil to a depth much deeper than with normal digging (double depth). This improves soil aeration and drainage. Organic matter is usually added at the same time.

Double Flower D

A flower that has extra petals giving an appearance of a flower within a flower.

Double U Cordon D

A method of training fruit trees into a double 'U' shape.

Double Working D

A technique of grafting two incompatible cultivars together using an 'interstock'.

Downy Mildew D

Drainage D

Ensuring excess surface water can be naturally or artificially removed from the soil.

Drawn D

A term used to describe any plant that has been grown either in a confined space or with lack of light that has become tall, thin and weak.

Drench D

Usually applies to any liquid/chemical watered onto the soil/roots of a plant rather than its foliage.

Dressed Seed D

See 'Seed Treatment'.

Dried Blood D

An organic fertiliser high in fast-acting nitrogen.

Drill D

A shallow channel made into the soil for seed sowing. (see 'to drill')

Drill (to) D

To drill is to sow seed using a seed drill.

Drilosphere D

The parts of the soil that are impacted by the secretion of worms.

Drip Line D

An irrigation system that delivers water very gradually one drip at a time.

Drought Tolerant D

A plant or variety that can grow during very dry conditions.

Drupe D

A fleshy fruit with thin skin and a central stone containing the seed, such as a plum.

Dry Rot (potatoes) D

Dual Leaders D

Where a tree has two dominant leaders. One should be removed so as to not weaken the tree.

Dumbbell D

A misshapen potato tuber.

Dutch Hoe D

A hoe with a distinct 'D' shaped head used for weed control and opening up soil.

Dwarf/Minature D

A smaller than normal version.

Dwarfing Rootstock D

A rootstock that limits a plants growth.

Early Cycle E

A term to describe an early maturing variety, more commonly used in the commercial sector.

Earth Up E

To draw soil up around or over a plant. Also known as 'hilling up' or hilling.

Earwigs E

EC E

See Electrical Conductivity.

Ecological E

The relationship between living organisms and their environment.

Ecosystem E

A group of living organisms that consist of and interact with each other in a shared environment.

Ecotox E

Ecotoxicity, a term used to describe how toxins affect soil, organisms and the environment.

Ectomycorrhizal Fungi E

Fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with plants via the plants root system.

Edaphon E

Any living organism present in soil.

EDC's E

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are chemicals commonly found in insecticides/herbicides, that interfere with the way the body's hormones work.

EDTA E

An abbreviation for the chelating agent, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid.

Eelworms E

Efflorescence E

The flowering of a plant. Also, a crystalline deposit of salts often seen on the surface of concrete or brick.

Electrical Conductivity (EC) E

Soil electrical conductivity (EC) is a measure of the amount of salts in the soil. It affects crop yields, plant nutrient availability, and activity of soil microorganisms.

Elephant Garlic E

A type of leek, often confused for garlic.

Emasculation E

To remove the anthers from a flower to stop it from becoming fertilised by its own pollen.

Embryo E

The part of a seed or bud that contains the earliest forms of a plant's roots, stem and leaves.

EMLA Series E

A series of apple rootstocks

Enchytraeids E

Also known as pot worms, they play an important role in the breakdown of organic matter and in soil bioturbation. They can tolerate acid soils such as peatlands.

Endoparasite E

A parasite that feeds inside a plant or animals body.

Endophytic E

Fungi and bacteria that live between living plant cells. The relationship that they establish with the plant varies from symbiotic to bordering on pathogenic.

Endorhizosphere E

Regions of various cell layers of the root itself where microorganisms also colonise.

Endosperm E

Nutritive tissue in a seed.

Endosymbiont E

Organisms that form a symbiotic relationship with another cell or organism and usually work together for mutual gain.

Enhanced Disease Characteristic E

A plant trait that shows increased resistance to a particular disease over and above what would normally be expected.

Entire E

A leaf that has no lobes, divisions or serrations.

Entomophilous E

Pollinated by insects.

Enzyme E

A protein that increases the rate of chemical reactions in organisms cells.

Ephemeral E

Not lasting long, short-lived or quickly shed.

Ephemerals E

A plant with a short life cycle.

Epicormic Shoots E

Shoots that develop from latent or adventitious buds hidden beneath the bark of a tree or shrub.

Epidermis E

The outermost layer of cells of an organ, usually only one cell thick.

Epiphyte E

A plant that grows on another plant but obtains its water from the air around it, not the host plant.

Epiphytic E

To grow on trees using them as support but not parasitic.

Epsom Salt E

See 'Sulphate of Magnesium'.

Ericaceous E

An Ericaceous plant is said to be 'lime hating' and requires an acidic soil or compost (pH below 5).

Erosion E

The eroding of soil or rock by water or wind.

Eschalote Grise E

An old variety of shallot, often referred to as a grey shallot. Also known as Griselle.

Espalier E

A fruit tree pruning technique where branches are trained laterally onto a framework.

Essential Nutrients E

The essential plant nutrients are Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium. Nitrogen is used by the plant to promote leafy growth, Phosphorus is used for shoot and root development and Potassium for flower formation.

Etiolated E

Blanched, a term used to describe the pale, thin and elongated growth produced by plants grown in the dark.

Eukarya E

A domain or a large taxonomy that makes up a group of organisms whose cells have a membrane-bound nucleus.

Euphyllophytes E

The group containing both ferns (monilophytes) and seed-bearing plants (spermatophytes).

Eutrophic E

A lake or other body of water that is rich in nutrients. See Eutrophication.

Eutrophication E

A build-up of nutrient in rivers or lakes leading to an increase of algae and weed, caused by run-off from agricultural land.

Evaporation E

The process of water turning to vapour.

Evapotranspiration E

The process by which water is transferred from the land to the atmosphere by evaporation from the soil and other surfaces and by transpiration from plants.

Everbearing E

A strawberry type which crops continuously throughout its production cycle rather than in one short flush.

Evergreen E

A plant, tree or shrub which bears year-round foliage.

Ex-Battery Hen E

A hen that has previously been caged for the purpose of high-intensity egg-laying. Ex-battery hens are frequently rehomed by gardeners and smallholders.

Exoctic E

A term applied to any plant that is not native.

Exogenous E

Anything produced by growth from superficial tissue outside of the organism.

Exposed E

An area without shelter or shade.

Exserted E

Stamens or pistils that protrude beyond other parts of a flower.

Extension E

Plant growth.

Extra Tender E

A type of sweetcorn.

Exudates E

Compounds that are released by plant roots into the rhizosphere are known as root exudates. These exudates actively feed fungi and bacteria in the soil which in return provide the plant with essential nutrients and minerals.

Eye E

Usually referring to buds or 'chits' on a potato tuber.

F1 F

F1 means 'Filial 1' which is Latin for hybrid variety. See F1 Hybrid.

F1 Hybrid F

A first-generation plant variety produced by crossing two stable seed lines (or inbred lines) that give rise to an incredibly uniform resulting variety that possess good vigour, high yield and uniform harvest periods etc.

F2 Hybrid F

Seed produced from an F1 hybrid, ie, a second-generation. F2 raised plants generally lack the vigour and yield of the parent plant.

Fairy Ring F

A ring of mushrooms that are the fruiting bodies of fungi mycelium under the surface of the soil. The ring radiates out into a circle from a single spore in the centre. Only certain species of fungi react in this way.

Fallow F

Soil left uncultivated with no cropping. Leaving soil or fields to rest, allows their fertility to improve.

Fallowing F

To leave the soil bare for at least one whole season.

Family F

A group of similar plants or species.

Fan Trained F

Fruit trees trained onto a frame in a fan shape.

Fanging F

A term used to describe the forking of carrots and parsnips often caused by nematode infestations and stoney or heavily composted soil.

Farina F

The powdery covering that coats some plants leaves and stems.

Fasciation F

A condition in which stems become fused together.

Fastigiate F

A botanical term meaning erect in habit.

Feathered Maiden F

A one-year-old fruit tree consisting of a main central stem with several side shoots.

Feed F

Plant food usually delivered in liquid form.

Feed (to) F

The process of applying feed or fertiliser to a plant.

Fertigation F

A method of applying feeds or fertiliser via irrigation.

Fertile F

Land or soil that is capable of producing viable harvests.

Fertiliser F

Food for plants, generally synthetic chemical but can also be organic such as dried blood or bonemeal.

Fertiliser Burn F

Scorch to either the foliage or roots from applying excess fertiliser or feed.

Fertilization F

The union of two cells of the opposite sex resulting in a new individual.

Festooning F

A technique for training fruit trees into a horizontal shape by tying the branches down.

Field Capacity F

The amount of soil moisture or water content held in the soil after excess water has drained away.

Field Stored F

A method of medium/long-term storage of root and some brassica crops where they are left in the field over winter until required for harvest.

Filament F

The slender stalk that bears an anther.

Filiform F

Thread-like.

Fillis F

A soft string used for tying.

Finger and Toe F

An old term for clubroot.

Fireblight F

First Early F

The first to harvest of a particular group of crops. Frequently used to indicate the earliest potato varieties but can be used for all vegetable types and varieties.

First Early Potatoes F

The first varieties of potato to mature, usually in around 10-11 weeks from planting.

Fish Meal F

A product frequently used as fertiliser that is produced from fish not fit for human consumption. Often used in organic fruit and vegetable growing systems.

Fish, Blood and Bone F

An organic fertiliser offering all major nutrients as well as micronutrients, some in a slow-release form.

Flabellate F

Fan-shaped.

Flag leaf F

The final leaf to emerge in a cereal plant.

Flagging F

See 'Permanent Wilting Point'.

Flat F

A shallow tray used to harvest fruit and vegetables into.

Flat Cabbage F

A type of cabbage originating from Japan that has a flat rather than round or pointed appearance.

Flax Tortrix Moth F

Flea Beetle F

Fleece F

A lightweight woven synthetic material that can be placed over growing crops to protect from inclement weather and certain pests. Also known as 'Horticultural Fleece'.

Flexi-Tub F

A lightweight flexible bucket or tub.

FLN F

An abbreviation for 'Free-Living Nematodes'.

Floating Row Cover F

A light-weight fleece covering laid over a crop (without supports) for protection from inclement weather and pests.

Flocculate F

To improve the texture of heavy clay by adding sand to give it a more porous and course structure.

Flore Pleno F

A botanical term used to describe a double flower.

Floret F

The individual parts of a cauliflower curd or broccoli head.

Floricane F

A raspberry type/variety that flowers and produces fruit on old (second year) wood.

Floury (potato) F

A potato that has a fluffy, dry texture that makes great mash or chips. Floury varieties include Maris Piper and King Edward.

Flush F

A plentiful supply, often coming all in one wave.

Flush (to) F

To apply large quantities of water to leach out an unwanted substance.

Flush Cut F

Pruning branches or limbs back to their point of origin leaving no stub.

Focus F

A concentrated area of diseased plants, usually around a primary source of infection.

Foliar Feed F

A feed/fertiliser that is applied in liquid form onto the foliage of crops and is absorbed through the leaf.

Foliar Feeding F

The process of applying a foliar feed to a plant.

Follow-on Crop F

A crop that is drilled or planted after a previous crop.

Foot and Root Rots F

Forb F

A herbaceous flowering plant that does not resemble a grass or rush.

Forcing F

The process of bringing a crop forward to an earlier harvest than it would under more natural growing conditions.

Forest Gardening F

A low-maintenance, sustainable, plant-based food production and agroforestry system based on woodland ecosystems.

Fork F

An implement used for digging over the soil and lifting crops and plants.

Forking F

The practice of breaking up the soil with a fork.

Forma specialis F

A group within a pathogen species that can only infect particular hosts.

Four-armed F

See 'Double U Cordon'.

Four-Square F

The layout of traditional walled gardens planting beds.

Frame F

A structure that can be covered with removable 'lights'. See 'Coldframe'.

Framework Grafting F

A form of grafting where many different scions are grafted onto one tree.

Framing F

See Plant Framing.

Frass F

Insect excrement, particularly from caterpillars.

Free Living F

Usually referring to nematodes that are associated with a particular plant but are not attached to it.

Free-living Nematodes F

French Gardening F

An outdated term used to describe intensive vegetable cultivation making use of cloches and cold frames.

Friable F

Soil that is easy to prepare and work, usually through weathering or from the addition of soil amendments such as compost.

Frit Fly F

Frond F

The leaf of a palm or fern.

Frond F

The leaf of a fern.

Frost F

A thin layer of ice that forms when the temperature falls close or below freezing point. Grass frosts usually occur at slightly higher temperatures (+1/2 oc) an air frost usually occurs at below freezing point (-1 oc).

Frost Damage F

Frost Drainage F

Creating a clear air passage downhill for frost to escape, usually by removing trees or other obstacles. Walled gardens occasionally had gates that could be opened on cold nights to allow passage of frost.

Frost Free F

An area that does not have frost.

Frost Free Date F

Date after which you can normally expect there to be no more frost.

Frost Hardy F

A plant or variety that is capable of withstanding a certain amount of frost exposure.

Frost Hollow F

A depression in the land that cold air tends to form in at night.

Frost Pocket F

An area of land that is usually low-laying and susceptible to frost.

Frost Tender F

Vulnerable to frost.

Frost Tolerant F

A plant or variety that shows tolerance to frost.

Fruit Arch F

An avenue of fruit trees grown and trained to meet overhead and form a tunnel.

Fruit Crop F

A crop that is produced on a tree or shrub but would also include strawberries.

Fruit Fly F

Fruit Load F

Fruit load management involves balancing the amount of fruit on a tree with the tree’s resources, including its size, vigour, and carbohydrate reserves. Also known as 'Crop loading'.

Fruit Set F

The point at which pollination and subsequent fertilisation has occurred and the flower produces fruit.

Fruit Wall F

Fruit grown on trees trained against a wall for the shelter and warmth it provides. Sometimes also refers to modern commercial apple pruning system where orchards are grown as hedges rather than a traditional shaped tree.

Fruiting Bodies F

Mushrooms, the spore-bearing structures of fungi.

Fruiting Hedge F

Apple trees planted together as cordons but then allowed to grow into one continuous hedge.

Fruiting Wood F

The branches or stems resulting from the previous year's growth. Most fruits will be produced on fruiting wood rather than new season growth.

Full Sun F

A term given to a plant or variety that describes its ideal growing position, ie, in full sun without any type of shade.

Fully Hardy F

Fully tolerant of frost.

Fulvic Acid F

A naturally-occurring humic substance that can be extracted from humus found in soil, sediment, or aquatic environments. It is one of the most valuable resources for improving soil structure and fertility.

Fumigation F

A method of sterilising greenhouses and buildings by exposing them to poisonous gases.

Fungi/Fungus F

Any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts, smuts, mildews and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms.

Fungicide F

Biocidal chemical compounds or biological organisms that kill or prevent the growth of fungi and their spores.

Fungus Gnats F

See 'Sciarid Flies'.

Furrow F

A narrow groove or trench depression made into the soil usually by a plough or ridging device.

Fusarium F

Fusarium Basal Rot (alliums) F

Fusarium Wilt F

G/Geneva Series G

A series of apple rootstocks developed from the breeding programs of Cornell University USA started by Dr James Cummings in 1968 and continuing to this day.

G11 G

An apple rootstock used to produce small/dwarf trees with good disease resistance and good cold tolerance. Similar in production to M9 and T337 with a mature height of 1.8 - 2.5m.

G16 G

An apple rootstock used to produce small/dwarf trees with good disease resistance and good cold tolerance. Similar in production to M9 and T337 with a mature height of 1.8 - 2.5m.

G202 G

G210 G

G213 G

G214 G

G222 G

G30 G

G41 G

An apple rootstock used to produce small/dwarf trees with good disease resistance, high resistance to woolly aphid and good cold tolerance. Similar in production to M9 and T337 with a mature height of 1.8 - 2.5m.

G814 G

G890 G

G935 G

G969 G

Gall G

An abnormal growth usually caused by disease.

Gall Midges G

Gambo G

Another name for Okra.

Gangrene (potatoes) G

Garden Lime G

See Lime.

Garden Pebble Moth G

Garlic Cresent (The) G

An area extending from eastern Turkey through to northern Asia being the area of origin of garlic.

Garlic Scapes G

Hardneck garlic will produce stems during the later stages of growth, which if left, will produce bulbils (tiny bulbs). These stems should be removed to improve the garlic yields. The scapes, however, are perfectly edible.

Gas Exchange G

The exchange of gases such as carbon dioxide and oxygen between soil and atmosphere.

GDU's G

An abbreviation for 'Growing Degree Units' which relate to the days of sunny weather needed for successful sweetcorn growth and maturity.

Gemma / Gemmae (pl) G

A bulbil that detaches from the main plant and develops into a new plant.

Gene G

The physical unit of inheritance.

Genera G

The plural of genus or groups of plant species.

General Suppression G

Competition from fungi and bacteria that suppress pathogens.

Genetic potential G

The maximum a plant can be bred too in terms of speed of growth, yield, pest and disease resistance etc.

Genetically Modified Organism G

An abbreviation for Genetically modified organism (GMO), a plant or variety that has been genetically altered rather than produced by conventional breeding techniques.

Genotype G

The genetic constitution of an organism.

Genus G

A plant classification that follows 'family' but precedes 'species'.

Genus G

A taxonomic division of a group of related plant species.

Geotropism G

The growth of the parts of plants in response to the force of gravity. The roots go down, the growth goes upwards.

Germinate G

When a seed goes from dormancy to producing shoots and roots.

Germination G

The process of a dormant seed coming to life and producing shoots and roots.

Germplasm G

The genetic material of a species kept primarily for breeding and hybridizing purposes.

GHG G

An abbreviation for 'Greenhouse Gas'.

Ghost Moth G

Ghost Shoot G

An offshoot of a plant that lacks chlorophyll. Also known as 'albino'.

Giberellin G

Gibberellins (GAs) are plant hormones that regulate many different aspects of plant growth and development through the entire life cycle of the plant, including cell division and elongation, seed germination, stem and hypocotyl elongation, root growth, and flowering induction (Daviere et al).

Girdling G

The severing of the bark, cambium, and sometimes the sapwood in a ring extending entirely around the trunk of the tree.

Glabrous G

Not hairy, smooth.

Gland G

An organ that secretes sticky or scented juice from a plant stem or leaf.

Glandular G

Having glands.

Glassine Bag G

A mesh bag commonly used for covering flowers to exclude insects and other pollinators.

Glauconite G

Marine sediment consisting of iron potassium phyllosilicate mineral.

Glaucous G

Bluey-grey in colour.

globose g

A plant or flower having a rounded form resembling that of a sphere. Also known as globular.

Glume G

The outermost and lowermost bract of a grass.

Glycine betaine G

An organic osmolyte that accumulates in a variety of plant species in response to environmental, abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, UV radiation and heavy metals.

Glycoalkaloid G

A class of potentially toxic compounds with a bitter taste, which are found throughout the family Solanaceae.

GMO G

An abbreviation for Genetically Modified Organism.

Gooseberry Dieback G

Gooseberry Sawfly G

Gourd G

A traditional name for certain types of winter squash.

Graft G

A shoot that is inserted into a slit made on another plant, typically a root-stock, that will fuse together forming one plant.

Graft Hybrid G

A hybrid which has resulted from the intermingling of the cells between rootstock and scion.

Graft Union G

See Bud Union.

Grafting G

The process of making a grafted plant (see Graft).

Grafting Clip G

Plastic clips that can be used to hold the 'graft' in place to the rootstock. Different clips are available for different grafting techniques (splice graft or Japanese graft and the approximation graft).

Granular G

Resembling or consisting of small grains or particles.

Grape/Micro (tomato) G

The smallest size fruit.

Grappe G

Usually referring to a bundle of hardneck garlic that, unlike softneck garlic, can not be plaited.

Grapping G

To bundle hardneck garlic into bundles or 'Grappes'.

Grease Band G

A sticky band wrapped around fruit trees to catch insects.

Green Garlic G

Garlic that is harvested early before being fully mature. Also known as wet garlic.

Green Manure G

A crop grown purely for its ability to add nutrient back into the soil rather than as a cash crop.

Greenhouse G

A glass structure used for growing plants.

Greensand G

Greensand is a type of fertilizer which contains a rich source of glauconite, which is high in iron, potassium and magnesium. Greensand is also useful for breaking up clay soils.

Grey Mould G

Grey Water G

Unpolluted wastewater, such as bathwater.

Griselle G

See Eschalote Grise.

Ground Cover G

A plant or synthetic membrane that covers the soil. Ground cover is useful for weed suppression and moisture retention.

Ground Water G

Rainwater, through the process of infiltration, will naturally find its way down through pores in the soil and rock until it reaches the water table and becomes known as groundwater.

Growbag G

A bag filled with compost that can be used for growing in rather than planting directly into border soil. Frequently used for growing tomatoes under glass.

Growhouse G

A structure used for the production of protected crops, usually made from plastic/polythene.

Growing Cycle G

The cycle that a plant goes through from germination of dormant seed, vegetive phase, pollination and fruiting. Many plants are, however, harvested at the vegetive stage.

Growing Days G

The number of days a particular crop takes from planting to maturity.

Growing for Showing G

A term used for the growing of a fruit or vegetable for the sole purpose of entering a horticultural show.

Growing Media G

The material that a plant is planted into to allow it to grow eg. compost, soil, Rockwool.

Growing Point G

The topmost bud of a shoot.

Growing Season G

The time of year when a particular crop is suited to growth.

Growmore G

An all-purpose inorganic fertiliser, containing all of the essential nutrients and minerals required for fruit and vegetable production.

Growth Bud G

A bud that produces a shoot or leaves, not flowers.

Growth Cracks (potatoes) G

Guano G

Manure from bats often used as an organic fertiliser.

Gum Boots G

Another term for wellington boots.

Gumming G

A resin secreted by stone fruits such as plums.

Gummy Stem Blight G

Guyot system G

A modern commercial system for training fruit trees. See also Bibaum, spindle and super spindle training systems.

GWR G

An abbreviation given to tomatoes that retain their green colour even when fully ripened or 'green when ripe'.

Gynoecious G

A species/hybrid that only produces female flowers eg. certain varieties of cucumber.

GYO G

An abbreviation for 'grow your own'.

Gypsum G

A naturally forming product, calcium sulfate dihydrate, frequently used to assist the break up of heavy clay soils.

Habit H

The growth form that a particular species naturally takes on eg. upright, bushy or prostrate.

Half Standard H

A small standard. See 'Standard'.

Half-Hardy H

A species that has some tolerance to frost.

Halo Blight H

Halophyte H

A salt-tolerant plant.

Hand Light H

An outdated term for a cloche.

Haploid H

A term used to describe a cell with half the usual number of chromosomes for a given species.

Hard Pan H

When sub-soil has become compacted.

Harden Off H

To gradually acclimatise plants to a change in temperature and climate ahead of planting out.

Hardiness Zone H

A scale that indicates the climate in a particular area of a country. The UK for instance is typically zone 7,8 and 9.

Hardneck H

A term applied to garlic that produces a scape or flowering stem during late spring.

Hardwood Cutting H

Also known as naked cuttings, cuttings that are made from fully mature wood of a shrub.

Hardy H

A species that is frost tolerant.

Hartig net H

The site of mutualistic resource exchange between a fungus and its host plant.

Harvest Window H

A period of time in days or weeks when a variety is suited to cropping or harvesting.

Hastate H

In the shape or form of an arrow.

Haulm H

The stems and foliage of potatoes. Occasionally also refers to foliage of peas and beans.

Heading Back H

The process of cutting back the terminal portion of a branch to a bud.

Heart Wood H

The innermost and hardest wood of a tree branch.

Heat Mat H

A mat that heats up when energised used for warming propagation areas.

Heat Tolerant H

A plant or variety that will tolerate above-average temperatures.

Heat-Treated H

A treatment that is applied to onion sets to reduce or eliminate bolting (premature flowering) in onions. The treatment is designed to kill off the embryonic flower Bud held within the set.

Heaving H

The process of root vegetables, particularly carrots, to push the soil upwards.

Heavy Feeders H

Plant species that require substantial nutrient uptake to reach full potential.

Heavy Metals H

Metal elements that are toxic or poisonous at low concentrations eg. lead, mercury, cadmium.

Heavy Soil H

Soil that primarily consists of clay particles. It lacks organic material and can suffer from poor drainage.

Hectare H

An area of land measuring 10,000 square meters: equivalent to 2.471 acres.

Heel Cutting H

A type of cutting used for propagation, that has a section of stem attached to it.

Heel End H

The end of a potato tuber that is attached to the stem. Also known as 'Attachment End'.

Heeling in H

To temporarily bury the roots of a bare-root plant ahead of transplanting into its final growing position.

Heirloom H

Old-time variety (see Heritage variety).

Herb H

A plant grown for its flavouring or medicinal qualities rather than its fruit or flowers.

Herbaceous H

A plant that does not have woody stems and reaches flowering in one growing season before dying down.

Herbalism H

The use of herbs as medicinal medicines. Sometimes known as phytomedicine or phytotherapy.

Herbalist H

Somebody who practises herbalism, the use of herbs as medicinal medicine.

Herbery H

An area used for growing herbs.

Herbicide H

Any chemical used for the control of weeds.

Herefordshire Pomona (The) H

A rare catalogue of apple and pair varieties grown in Herefordshire UK during the 19th century. Prices for original copies can exceed £10,000.

Heritage Variety H

Generally refers to older varieties that are not widely grown. Varieties tend to be open-pollinated rather than F1 hybrid and may be more prone to pests and diseases than more modern offerings.

Hermaphrodite H

A plant that has both male and female reproductive organs. See Monoecious.

Heterogeneous H

Having widely dissimilar elements or constituents.

Heteromorphic H

Occurring in two or more different forms, especially at different stages in the life cycle.

Heterosis H

The technical term for hybrid vigour.

Heterosporous H

Having two types of spores - megaspores (female) and microspores (male).

Heterotrophs H

Organisms that can't produce their own food and rely on other sources of organic carbon, such as decaying plant material.

Hexaploid H

Having six sets of chromosomes.

Hide H

An ancient form of measurement used by the Saxons. 1 Hide = 120 Acres, the required amount of land to support one family. 1 Sulung = 2 Hides. 1 Yoke = 0.25 Sulung.

High Disease Pressure H

The point at which a diseased plant can not defend itself and intervention is necessary, usually in the form of chemical application.

Hillup / Hilling up H

To draw the soil up over or around a growing crop, frequently forming ridges. Also known as earthing up.

Hirsute H

Hairy.

Hispid. H

Bristly.

Hoary H

Many fine hairs covering a leaf or stem giving a frosted appearance.

Hoe (to) H

Implement used to remove weeds and to open up the soil.

Hoggin H

A combination of sand, gravel and clay that when compacted, makes a very stable, buff-coloured surface often used for footpaths.

Hollow Heart (potatoes) H

Homogeneity H

The similar or uniform structure of a living organism.

Homosporous H

Spores of a single type, as with most ferns.

Honey Dew H

Sticky liquid secreted by aphids. Also refers to a type of melon.

Honey Fungus H

Hoof and Horn H

An outdated nitrogenous organic fertiliser.

Hoop House H

An alternative term for a poly tunnel. Often used in the USA.

Hormone H

A signal molecule within a plant that triggers a certain reaction such as germination, growth, flowering etc.

Horticulturalist H

A person working in the horticultural profession.

Horticulture H

The area of agriculture that represents the growing of fruit, vegetables and ornamentals.

Host H

A place where a plant or organism can sustain and reproduce.

Host Range H

The range of usually closely related plants that a pest or pathogen will use.

Host-specific H

Pertaining to a particular host, usually species-specific.

Hot Bed H

A form of propagator in which the bottom heat is provided by a base of decaying manure rather than an electrical element.

Hot Composting H

A technique of composting that allows the temperature to quickly build up and allows bacteria to work faster than in cold composting.

Hot House H

A traditional term used to refer to a heated greenhouse. Frequently used during the Victorian era.

Hull H

A seed husk.

Humates H

The natural result of the process of humification, in which organic matter is formed from the remains of plant and animal life over a period of thousands of years.

Humic Acid H

Humic (and Fulvic) acids are the final break-down constituents of the natural decay of plant and animal materials. These organic acids are found in pre-historic deposits.

Humification H

The process of decomposition of plant and other organic material into humus.

Humus H

The organic constituent of soil, formed from the decaying of other plants and organic material.

Hutton Criteria H

Two consecutive days with a minimum temperature of 10°C, and at least six hours of relative humidity (90%). Arising from research funded by AHDB Potatoes and undertaken by the James Hutton Institute, the Hutton Criteria is a significant advancement on the 60-year old Smith period.

Hybrid H

A plant or variety produced as a result of crossing different breeding lines, varieties, species, or genera.

Hybridiser H

A company or person who is engaged in the process of cross-pollinating plants and producing new types or hybrids.

Hydro-Priming H

See 'Seed Priming'.

Hydrophilic H

Water loving, from Greek hydros, meaning water and philia meaning friendship.

Hydroponics H

A technique using nutrient-enriched water as a growing medium for plant culture.

Hydrosphere H

The total amount of water on the planet.

Hyphae H

The branching filaments that make up the mycelium of fungi.

Hypocotyl H

The part of the stem of a germinating plant beneath the stalks of the seed leaves or cotyledons but directly above the radical or root.

Hypotyl H

An embryonic shoot.

Hypoxic H

Low oxygen.

Iberian I

A type of hardneck garlic originating from Spain that produces a scape or flowering stem.

Imbibing I

The adsorption of water by a seed that causes the seed coat or testa to break.

Imbricate I

A botanical term used to describe overlapping leaves.

Immune I

Cannot be infected by a given pathogen.

Imperator I

A type of carrot.

In vitro I

A term used for micro-propagation meaning literally 'within the glass' referring to the test tubes used.

Inarching I

A form of grafting that still has roots attached to the scion.

Inbred Line I

A relatively stable and pure breeding strain/line used in the production of modern hybrids.

Incidental Organism I

An organism on which or in which another organism lives.

Incinerator I

A garden implement used for the efficient burning of garden waste.

Incised I

A botanical term used to describe leaves with deeply cut margins.

Incorporate / Incorporation I

The practice of mixing a cover crop into the soil usually by digging, ploughing or rotovating.

Inderterminate I

Usually referring to tomatoes, continues to grow unchecked until frosted.

Indumentum I

A botanical term used to describe a dense covering of short hairs.

Indumentum I

A dense covering of short hairs.

Infertile I

A plant or organism that is unable to reproduce itself.

Inflorescence I

The group or arrangement in which flowers are borne on a plant.

Inoculant I

A virus or toxin.

Inoculum I

Microorganisms or virus particles that act as a source of infection.

Inorganic I

Not originating from a living organism.

Insect I

Animals with six legs eg. bees, wasps, beetles, butterflies and moths.

Insecticidal Soap I

Soap based insecticide that is classed as organic.

Insecticide I

A chemical-based product used for the eradication of insects/aphids that can be either synthetic or organic.

Insectivorous I

Insect-eating.

Insitu I

In its original or existing position.

Instar I

A phase between two periods of moulting in the development of an insect larva or other invertebrate animals.

Instar I

The stages between two phases of moulting of an insect larva.

Integrated Pest Management. I

A system of biological control products backed up by cultural good practice and chemical intervention where necessary.

Intercropping I

See Interplanting.

Intergeneric I

Hybrid resulting from two different genera.

Intergrated Control I

See 'Integrated Pest Management'.

Internal Sprouting (potatoes) I

Internodal Cut I

A cut made between two nodes or growth buds.

Internode I

Part of a plant stem between two successive nodes.

Internode I

The section of stems between nodes.

Interplanting I

The process of planting certain crops within others. This might be part of a permaculture system or to save space and time when one crop finishes, the other is already established.

Interstock I

Used in grafting when two incompatible cultivars are grafted together. The interstock is used between rootstock and scion.

Introduction /Introduced I

A newly available variety or hybrid.

Invasive I

Intrusive, fast-spreading and generally unwanted. Often refers to certain weed species.

Invertebrates I

An animal that does not have a backbone eg. the earthworm.

Involucre I

The whorl of bracts found on the underside of some flowers such as types of daisy.

Ion I

A charged atom or molecule.

IPM I

Integrated Pest Management.

IR Mulches I

Infrared mulch suppresses weeds but allows infrared through to warm the soil.

Irishman's Cutting I

An outdated term given to a cutting taken from a plant, with some root attached to it. Strictly speaking, this should be classed as a division.

Iron Chelate I

Organic elements that grab iron like a claw, so that iron remains available in the solution and in turn available to the plant.

Iron Deficiency I

Irrigation I

A term used to describe applying water to crops.

Japanese graft J

A method of grafting.

Jiffy 7 J

Compressed peat or coir pellet used for propagation purposes that expand when exposed to water.

Juglone J

An allelopathic compound found in the leaves, roots, shells, and bark of the Black Walnut tree. Can be toxic to worms. Adding to compost heaps should be avoided.

June Bearing J

The term used to refer to strawberries that fruit naturally during June. These varieties can, however, be forced to provide fruit earlier in the season.

June Drop J

A natural process whereby fruit trees shed developing fruit during the month of June.

Jute J

A plant fibre commonly used to make garden twine.

K K

K - the chemical symbol for Potassium.

kailyaird k

See Kaleyard.

Kainit K

A natural deposit found in certain parts of the world consisting of potash combined with common salt and magnesium sulfate. At one time used as a fertiliser.

Kaleyard K

A Scottish term meaning vegetable garden, sometimes written as Kailyard.

Kappya K

A type of pepper characterised by its conical shape. Generally shorter than long-horn types.

Keel K

The boat-shaped part of a leguminous flower such as pea or lupin.

Kelp K

A type of seaweed that can be used as organic fertiliser.

Kernel K

The internal part of a nut.

Keystone Organisms K

Organisms that have a disproportionate effect on the environment for their relative size.

Kieserite K

Magnesium sulfate monohydrate, used to remedy magnesium deficiencies in soil.

Kintoki ninjin K

A type of red carrot that is particularly prized in parts of Asia.

Kitchen Garden K

An area of the garden used for the production of fruit, vegetables and herbs for use at home.

Knip-boom K

A fruit tree pruning/training method primarily used in the commercial sector. Also known as spindle-bush.

Knox K

An innovative trait developed to reduce 'pinking' in lettuce post harvest and in turn, extending shelf life.

Krilium K

An outdated soil conditioner.

Krummholz K

Also known as 'wind-training' or 'Knee-timber' when the prevailing wind bends and distorts a tree or vegetation in the direction of the wind.

Kuroda K

A type of carrot.

Kurrat K

Egyptian leek grown for its foliage. It is closely related to elephant garlic and leeks.

Labellum L

A botanical term used to describe the lip on a flower.

Labile Fraction L

The portion of soil organic matter that can be readily decomposed by soil organisms.

Lacewing L

A useful garden insect that preys on certain garden pests eg. aphids and whitefly. Also, act as useful pollinators.

Laciniate L

A botanical term used to describe leaves that are lobed.

Lady's Fingers L

Another name for Okra.

Lamina L

The leafy part of a fern, excluding the rachis, midrib or stipe.

Lammas Growth L

A second flush of growth made during summertime.

Lanceolate L

A botanical term used to describe lance-like leaves.

Landrace L

The term “landrace” has generally been defined as a cultivated, genetically heterogeneous variety that has evolved in a certain ecogeographical area and is therefore adapted to the edaphic and climatic conditions and to its traditional management and uses. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Langerdijk L

A type of cabbage.

Large White Butterfly L

Larvae L

The maggot or grub stage of an insects life cycle.

Lasagne Gardening L

A gardening technique where each year new layers of compost are placed onto of the existing soil/compost from the previous season. See also 'no-dig'.

Late Blight (potatoes) L

Late Cycle L

A term to describe a late-maturing variety, more commonly used in the commercial sector.

Latent L

The term is sometimes used to describe buds which have failed to grow.

Latent Bud L

A bud that remains dormant.

Latent heat L

Heat that is stored by something that is gradually released.

Latent Infection L

Infection by a pathogen that shows no visible symptoms.

Lateral L

A side shoot or branch in contrast to a leading shoot or branch.

Lattice L

An alternative term for trellis.

Latticed L

Forming a mesh.

Layer L

See 'Layering'.

Layering L

A form of propagation where the cutting is induced to form roots while still attached to the mother plant.

Leaching L

To wash or rinse away. Soil that has leached is said to be deficient in nutrients.

Leader L

The main shoot. Usually referring to fruit trees.

Leading Shoot L

The main central stem or branch.

Leaf Blight (alliums) L

Leaf Curl L

A disease of peaches and nectarines.

Leaf Mould L

A compost made from decomposed leaves.

Leaf Scar L

The point at which a leaf was attached to a stem.

Leaf Scorch L

A browning edge that develpes on leaf perimeters usually associated with fertiliser deficiency (potash) or nitrogen excess.

Leaf sheath L

The lower part of the leaf that more or less completely surrounds the stem.

Leaf Spots (bacterial) L

Leaf Spots (fungal) L

Leafy Vegetables L

Vegetable types where the main harvestable material consists primarily of leaf rather than a fruit or root eg. spring greens.

Leatherjackets L

Lebanese Cucumber L

See 'Beit Alpha'.

Leek Moth L

Leek Rust L

Leggy L

A common term used to describe a plant habit that has become stretched, usually because of poor light levels.

Legume L

A term used to describe all types of pea and beans.

Legumious L

A family group containing peas and beans and other pulses.

Lenticel L

The raised pore on a potato tuber that allows the tuber to breathe.

Lepidate L

A botanical term used to describe scale-like covering of some leaves and stems.

Lesion L

A localised area of diseased tissue.

Lettuce Root Aphid L

levelling lute l

A tool used to level and prepare seed beds, usually used in preparing lawns.

Lift (to) L

To dig up. Commonly used as a term for harvesting root crops.

Ligand L

An ion or molecule that binds to another (usually larger) molecule. See Chelation.

Light Leafspot (brassicas) L

Light Soil L

Soil that is lacking in clay particles and organic material.

Lignify L

To turn woody.

Lignotuber L

A woody swollen root that may produce new growth.

Ligule L

A thin outgrowth at a leaf node on grasses and cereals.

Limb L

A tree branch.

Lime L

Calcium carbonate frequently used as an additive to soil to reduce pH levels. Also used to help prevent clubroot in brassicas.

Lime Sulphur L

An outdated fungicide.

Linear L

A botanical term to describe leaves that are long and narrow.

Lions Mane L

A type of mushroom.

Lithosphere L

The lithosphere is the solid, outer part of the earth.

Liver of Sulphur L

A very outdated sulphur based fungicide.

Loam L

Soil with a perfect combination of clay, sand and humus.

Lodging L

When a standing crop leans or bends because of adverse weather or soil conditions.

Loess L

A wind-blown deposit of silt.

London Purple L

An outdated chemical for the eradication of slugs and snails.

Long Cane L

Floricane raspberries produce fruit on old wood and as a result, planting material has to be supplied with lengths of the previous year's growth if they are expected to fruit in the first season after planting.

Long Cycle Segment L

A term that refers to the commercial production of cauliflower for the late winter period.

Long Horn/Ox Horn L

A type of pepper that has long elongated fruits.

Long-Day L

A term to describe when hours of daylight exceed the hours of darkness. This period exists between the spring and autumn equinoxes.

Long-Day Onion L

An onion variety that grows from a spring sowing or planting, having daylight hours of at least 14-16 hours per day before maturing.

Long-Handled Hoe L

A hoe with a long handle used for weed control and opening up soil.

Lop L

To remove large branches.

Lorette Pruning L

A technique for pruning apples and pairs during the summer months.

Lunar Planting L

See Moon Planting.

Lycopene L

The red pigment found in tomatoes. It has strong antioxidant properties capable of fighting free radical compounds found within your body.

Lycophytes L

The group containing quillworts, clubmosses and spikemosses.

M Series M

A series of apple rootstocks, also known as the Malling Series,

M116 M

An apple rootstock used to produce large trees with a mature height of 2.5 - 4m. Suited to production of Bush, Half-Standard traditional trees, Fans and Espaliers. Useful on wet sites.

M25 M

An apple rootstock used to produce full-sized/very vigorous trees with a mature height of 4.5m+. Suited to production of Standard traditional trees.

M26 M

An apple rootstock used to produce medium/semi vigorous trees with a mature height of 2.2 - 3m. Suited to the production of Bush, large Cordon, small Fans and Espaliers.

M27 M

An apple rootstock used to produce very small/miniature trees with a mature height of 1.5 - 2m. Also suited to Pyramids, Step-overs and trees in patio containers.

M7 M

An apple rootstock used to produce medium/semi-dwarf trees with a mature height of 2.2 - 3m. The M7 rootstock is ideally used for vigour between the M26 and MM106.

M9 M

An apple rootstock used to produce small/dwarf trees with a mature height of 1.8 - 2.5m. Suited to the production of Spindle Bush and Oblique Cordons. The standard dwarfing rootstock used world wide.

M9 EMLA M

A virus free clone/variant of M9.

M9 FL56 M

A clone/variant of M9 selected by Dutch nursery Fleuren in Baarlo the Netherlands. Also known as 'M9 Flueren 56'.

M9 Nic 29 M

See M9 RN29 (Nic 29).

M9 PARJAM 1 Lancep M

A clone/variant of M9. Bred by CEPC-CTIFL France.

M9 PARJAM 2 Cepiland M

A clone/variant of M9. Bred by CEPC-CTIFL France.

M9 RN29 (Nic 29) M

An M9 mutation discovered by René Nicolaï nurseries Alken in Belgium.

M9 T337 M

A clone/variant of M9.

Mâche M

Another term for Corn salad or Lambs lettuce.

Macro Fauna M

Any organism visible to the naked eye, essentially larger than o.5mm.

Macroarthropod M

The larger creatures found in soil typically ranging in size from 5 to 50mm such as spiders and centipedes.

Macroclimate M

The climate in a large area or region.

Macronutrient M

The main nutrients contained in soil or other growing media which include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).

MagiPal M

A specially formulated attractant, which attracts naturally occurring predators and parasitoids into an area.

Magnesium Deficiency M

Maiden M

A first-year strawberry plant.

Maiden Tree M

A tree in its first year normally consisting of a single stem.

Maiden Whip M

A tree in its first year without any branches.

Main Season M

The season in which a particular variety is at its best.

Maincrop M

Varieties of a particular species that fit into the natural growing/harvesting period for that type.

Manganese Deficiency M

Mangetout M

A type of pea harvested before the seeds have matured and usually eaten whole, either raw or cooked.

Manure M

Animal excretion.

Manure Tea M

A manure-infused liquid that is used as an organic liquid feed.

Mark M

An open-pollinated seedling of M9 introduced by Michigan State University in 1979. 35-40% of standard. Also known as MAC 9.

Marl M

A type of soil where clay is blended with chalk.

Marrowfat M

A type of pea.

Massive (soil) M

A soil that has no structure. Soil particles are totally stuck together.

Mast M

The edible or reproductive parts of trees and shrubs.

Maturation M

The process of becoming mature.

Mature M

When the growth cycle is complete, ready to be harvested.

May M

A common or traditional name for Hawthorn (sometimes May Tree).

May or May Tree M

The common Hawthorn 'Crataegus monogyna' also known as 'May Blossom'.

Maypoling M

The process of tying up heavily laden branches of fruit trees from branches higher up in the canopy.

Mealy Bugs M

Mealy Cabbage Aphid M

Mechanical Damage M

Media M

The material used to grow a plant in. This usually consists of soil, compost, Rockwool, coir etc.

Medicinal Bed M

A border or bed cultivated with plants/herbs that are capable of being used for medicinal purposes.

Medium Cycle M

A term to describe a mid-maturing variety, more commonly used in the commercial sector.

Megasporangium M

The sporangium bearing megaspores, in heterosporous plants.

Megaspore M

The female spores in heterosporous plants.

Meiofauna M

See Mesofauna.

Melon Pit M

A hole in the ground prepared with heavy quantities of organic material such as well-rotted manure.

Membrane M

A barrier between two layers, usually made from a synthetic material, designed to suppress weed and retain moisture.

Meso Fauna M

Small organisms found in soil.

Mesoclimate M

The climate in a defined area eg. a vineyard. It sits between macro and microclimate.

Mesophiles M

Mesophiles are microorganisms such as some species of bacteria and fungi, that are active in compost heaps at medium temperatures.

Mesophyll M

The inner part of a leaf containing chlorophyll.

Metallophores M

Secondary metabolites that enable bacteria to sequester metal ions from the surrounding environment.

Methanotrophs M

Methane-eating bacteria.

MF M

Abbreviation for Mycorrhizal Fungi.

Micro-aggregate M

The smallest components of soil.

Microarthropod M

The smallest arthropods found in soil that include mites and springtails.

Microbe M

Microscopic organisms, such as bacteria and fungi. Microbes represent the most abundant soil organisms.

Microbial Biomass M

The total mass of microorganisms in a given sample of soil.

Microbial Inoculant M

An amendment added to the soil that uses beneficial microbes to enhance healthy soil and plant growth.

Microbial Pesticide M

An organic pesticide made up of naturally occurring bacteria and fungi.

Microbial Stimulant M

A microorganism designed to stimulate natural processes within the soil, a plant or seed when applied.

Microbial Strains M

A genetic variant of a particular microorganism.

Microbiota M

Microorganisms found in a defined area eg. a compost heap.

Microclimate M

The climate in and around a small area or region.

Microfauna M

The smallest of the soil fauna consisting of protists and nematodes.

Microflora M

Bacteria and fungi living in the soil.

Micronutrients M

Nutrients essential for efficient plant growth that include boron (B), chlorine (CI), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), zinc (Zn) and nickel (Ni).

Microorganism M

An incredibly small organism.

Micropropagation M

A method of plant propagation carried out in a laboratory where small pieces of mother plant are grown into new plants in vitro.

Microsporangium M

The sporangium bearing microspores in heterosporous plants.

Microspore M

The male spores in heterosporous plants.

Midrib M

The main rib that runs along the length of a leaf.

Milk Phase M

A phase of maturity in grains. Before fully mature, the seed is still green and soft and exudes a milky substance if crushed.

Milk Stage M

As 'milk phase' usually referring to an immature sweetcorn kernel.

Minarette M

A small single-stemmed fruit tree similar to a 'supercolumn' but suited to small gardens.

Mineral M

An inorganic substance with a defined chemical makeup that occurs naturally in nature as a result of geological activity over time.

Mineral Deficiency M

Where one or more minerals/nutrients are lacking either in the soil or plant.

Mineralisation M

In soil biology, mineralisation is the process of oxidation of chemical compounds in organic matter by which the nutrients in those compounds are made available to plants.

Minimal cultivation M

A reduced form of cultivation.

Mint Rust M

MM Series M

A series of apple rootstocks

MM106 M

An apple rootstock used to produce large/vigorous trees with a mature height of 2.5 - 4m. Suited to production of Bush, Half-Standard traditional trees, Fans and Espaliers.

MM111 M

An apple rootstock used to produce full-sized/very vigorous trees with a mature height of 3.5 - 4.5m. Suited to production of Standard and Half-Standard traditional trees, Fans and Espaliers. Good drought tolerance and on poor soils.

MM111/M9 M

An apple rootstock (an interstem of M9 on top of the MM111) used to produce medium trees with a mature height of 3m. Suited to the production of bush trees that fruit early in their life and have improved disease resistance.

Mode of Action M

The way a chemical acts upon a plant eg. contact, absorption, translocated.

Modified Lorette System M

See 'Lorette Pruning'.

Module M

A container or tray with numerous spaces that hold compost used for early-stage plant propagation or growing-on.

Moisture Shells M

Layers of humid air that build up around a plant as it transpires.

Molluscicide M

An insecticide used for the control of slugs and snails.

Molybdenum Deficiency M

Monilophytes M

Ferns.

Monocarpic M

A plant that flowers, sets seed and then dies.

Monocot M

A shortened version of 'Monocotyledon' or having only one leaf seed.

Monocotyledon M

A plant that normally only produces one cotyledon or seed leaf.

Monoecious M

Hermaphrodite, a plant that has both male and female reproductive organs.

Monogerm Seed M

Seed usually associated with Beetroot that contains a single seed rather than the more usual multigerm seed that contains several seeds.

Monopodial M

Growing indefinitely from an apical or terminal bud.

Moon Planting M

A system of planting that is determined by moon phases. The gravitational pull that increases at certain times of the month is said to be beneficial for plant growth.

Morphology M

The arrangement and shapes of plant structures.

Mosaic M

A pattern of disease symptoms on a plant, apparent as green/yellow or dark/light areas, usually referring to virus infections.

Mother Plant M

A plant used to supply material for propagation purposes, either vegetatively for cuttings or for seed.

Mottling M

Leaf blotches and markings which can be naturally occurring or induced by disease.

Mouse -Ear M

A term used to describe a particular point in the devolpment of a fruit bud.

Mucilage M

Gelatinous secretion and exudates produced by certain organisms and plant roots.

Mucronate M

A botanical term used to describe a leaf that ends in a short, stiff point.

Mucronate M

Terminating in a sharp point.

Mulberry Canker M

Mulch M

An organic layer of composted material placed around plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Can also be a layer of an inorganic material such as plastic or fleece.

Multi-action M

A product that works in more than one way.

Multi-purpose Compost M

A manufactured compost suitable for a variety of growth stages including seed sowing and growing on.

Multi-stemmed M

A tree with more than one central main branch.

Multigerm Seed M

Seed usually associated with Beetroot and Chard that contain rough clusters of several seeds rather than a single seed. The clusters will germinate into multiple seedlings.

Multiple Cordon M

A fruit tree trained to have at least three upright stems.

Multiply M

To increase by propagation.

Munchkin Type M

A small round winter squash.

Mushroom House M

A structure used for the production of mushrooms.

Mutation M

A variant from the original.

Mycelium M

The mass of hyphae forming the body of a fungus.

Mycoinsecticide M

An insecticide that uses fungi as its active ingredient.

Mycology M

The study of Fungi.

Mycorrhiza helper bacteria (MHB) M

See Mycorrhiza Bacteria.

Mycorrhizal Bacteria M

Bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with plants that can assist in a plants growth and production.

Mycotoxin M

A toxin produced by a fungus.

N N

N - the chemical symbol for Nitrogen.

Nano Nutrients N

A very exact quantity of nutrient that works in a very exact form.

Nantes N

A type of carrot.

Native Plant N

A plant that has originated in the area or country where it is growing.

Native Species N

A species that has originated in the area or country where it is growing.

Natural Barrier N

A natural chemical barrier that plants have to stop the spread of disease from one part of the plant to another.

Natural Enemies N

A natural predator eg. lacewings, ladybirds or beetles that prey on garden pests.

Naturalise N

Where plants are left to spread and multiple without intervention.

Naturalised N

An area where plants have been left to spread and multiple without intervention.

Necrosis N

When plant tissue deteriorates and dies.

Necrotic N

Dead areas of plant tissue.

Necrotroph N

A microorganism that feeds only on dead organic tissue.

Nectar N

A sugar-rich liquid produced by the flowering parts of plants.

Neem Oil N

An organic insecticide produced from the Neem tree.

Negative Geotropism N

Where the growth of a plant grows in the opposite direction to gravity.

Negative Photoblastic N

Seeds that require the exclusion of light for germination.

Nematicides N

Chemical used for the control of nematodes.

Nematocides N

See Nematicides.

Nematode N

Eelworms, abundant in all soils. Useful pest control for the organic grower.

Nematodes N

Netting N

A woven product used for plant protection and plant support.

Neutral (soil) N

Soil with a pH 7 which is neither acidic nor alkaline.

Nic 29 N

See M9 RN29 (Nic 29).

Nightshades N

Plants belonging to the family of Solanaceae. They include - tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and Aubergine.

Nil-Til N

Where drilling or planting takes place directly into undisturbed soil. See also Direct Drilling and No-Dig.

Nitrate N

A salt of nitric acid. A common constituent of fertilisers with a high nitrogen content that is readily available to plants.

Nitrate/Nitrite Denitrification N

A process involving bacteria whereby nitrates and nitrites are reduced to gaseous forms of nitrogen.

Nitrification N

The biological process of oxidation of ammonia to nitrite and then into nitrate.

Nitrite N

A salt of nitric acid in which the nitrogen is not readily available to plants.

Nitro Lime N

Calcium cyanamide used as a fertiliser.

Nitrogen (N) N

An essential nutrient required by most plants for healthy leaf and stem production.

Nitrogen Cycle N

The process of nitrogen from the atmosphere being used by plants via nitrogen fixation or nitrogen uptake to be used by the plant for growth and ultimately returned to the atmosphere as the plant dies and decays.

Nitrogen Deficiency N

Nitrogen Fixation N

The process that involves a plant turning atmospheric nitrogen into nitrogen compounds such as ammonia, nitrates or nitrites.

No Dig N

A gardening technique pioneered by Charles Dowding, that simply advocates placing new layers of compost onto the soil each season with minimal ground disturbance. See 'Lasagne Gardening'.

No Til Gardening N

See 'No Dig'.

Node N

The level of a stem from which one or more leaves emerge.

Nodule N

Leaf abnormalities such as 'Galls'.

Non Recurrent N

Shrubs that only have one flush of flowers.

Non-available N

An element that is locked up or immobilised and unavailable for a plant to use.

Normal Sugar N

A type of sweetcorn.

Nose N

The upper side of a bulb or corm.

Notching and Nicking N

An old fashioned practice of making an incision above (notching) or below (nicking) a dormant growth bud of a fruit tree. Usually carried out during May, nicking is intended to check growth, notching to encourage it.

Notifiable N

A pest, disease or weed that by law should be reported to the authorities.

Noxious Weed N

Any weed that can severely affect other growing crops eg. Japenese Knotweed and Ragwort.

NPK N

Abbreviation for the essential nutrients Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium required for healthy plant growth.

Nurse Limbs N

Limbs left on a top-worked tree while the grafts of a new variety establish.

Nurse Plant N

A plant that offers protection to another eg. shade in extreme heat.

Nursery Bed N

A waiting area designated for plants that will be required at a later date but at present have no permanent location.

Nut Weevil N

Nutrient Aquisition N

The way in which a plant finds and uses nutrient, this may be with a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria.

Nutrient Cycle N

The cycle of nutrients taken up by a plant, being utilised for growth and then returned to the environment as it decomposes.

Nutrients N

Compounds essential for healthy plant growth.

Nuttery N

An area used for growing nut trees.

Nymph N

The immature stage of an insect or mite.

O-Horizon O

The layer within a soil profile that contains the most humus and organic material.

O.P O

An abbreviation for a variety that is 'Open Pollinated'.

Oblique Cordon O

A single-stemmed espalier trained at a 45degree angle.

Obtuse O

A blunt, round leaf.

Occlusion O

The process by which a plant closes over callus tissue after a pruning cut.

Oedema O

Offset O

An asexually produced daughter plant that is identical to the mother plant.

Oligo Elements O

Another term for micro-nutrients or trace elements.

Oligotrophic O

A pond or lake that has a low nutrient content.

One Time Till O

A one-off tillage or cultivation before commencing a 'No Dig' or 'Nil Til' system of producing vegetables.

Onion Fly O

Onion Hoe O

A small handheld hoe used to work closely around plants for weed control and opening up soil.

Onion Neck Rot O

Onion White Rot O

Onions Thrips O

Oomycete O

A group of several hundred organisms that include some of the most devastating plant pathogens e.g. foliage blights and mildews.

Open Pollinated O

Natural pollination that is possible without human interaction or manipulation.

Ophios O

Another term for hardneck garlic.

Optimum Temperature O

The perfect temperature for a specific crop.

Oral Exposure O

Exposure to and swallowing or ingesting a chemical.

Orbicular O

Circular.

Orchard O

An area used for growing fruit trees.

Organic O

Naturally occurring, not man-made.

Organic Chelate O

A natural chelating agent such as compost, rather than a synthetic chelate.

Organic Fertiliser O

A fertiliser produced from naturally occurring substances, plants or products.

Organic Fungicide O

A fungicide produced from naturally occurring substances, plants or products.

Organic Herbicide O

A herbicide produced from naturally occurring substances, plants or products.

Organic Matter O

Decomposed plant and animal material.

Organic Pesticide O

A pesticide produced from a naturally occurring substance, plant or organism.

Oriental Vegetable O

Vegetable species and varieties not native to the northern hemisphere and originating primarily from Asia.

Ornamental O

Generally, non-edible.

Ovary O

The female part of a flower that will eventually, if pollinated, become the fruit.

Ovate O

Egg shaped leaves.

Over Mulching O

When to much mulch has been added around plants. This can potentially cause a build-up of heat or oxygen starvation.

Over-winter O

To carry a plant over the winter period either for a spring harvest or spring planting from the previous autumn.

Overthreft O

To plough or cultivate in the opposite or diagonal direction to the previous operation.

Ovicide O

A pesticide that is used for controlling the egg stages of a pest.

Ovipositor O

The egg-laying organ of an insect.

Ox Horn/Long Horn O

A type of pepper that has long elongated fruits.

Oxheart (tomato) O

Large shaped usually heirloom or heritage type of old-fashioned tomato.

Oxygen Starvation O

When to much water displaces oxygen in the soil.

P P

P - the chemical symbol for Phosphorus.

P Series P

A series of apple rootstocks developed in Poland by the research Institute of Pomology.

Palmate P

A leaf containing five or more individual lobes.

Pan P

A compacted layer of soil.

Panicle P

A loose branching cluster of flowers.

Paper Mulch P

A mulch used for covering soil, made from newspaper or cardboard.

Pappus P

A tuft of hair or bristles found on some flowers which are used to help seed become airborne.

PAR P

See 'Photosynthetically Active Radiation'.

Paraphysis P

Small hairs found on ferns.

Parasite P

Any organism that gets its food from another plant or animal.

Parasitic Plant P

Any plant that sources its own nutrient requirements from another plant.

Parasitic Wasp P

A wasp that preys on certain insects where it lays its eggs on or inside the host.

Parasitism P

The practice of living as a parasite on or with another animal or organism in which one benefits at the expense of the other.

Parasitoid P

Any organism that lives on or inside another organism.

Parent Material P

The 'C' Horizon in a soil profile. The material in the soil profile or horizon that is situated below subsoil.

Parent Plant P

See 'Mother Plant'.

Paris Frame P

An old term for a small frame placed inside another frame (cold frame) often used for propagation.

PARJAM P

An abbreviation for the French apple tree rootstock 'Paradis Jaune de Metz' or 'Apple Tree of Paradise'. The original M9.

Parsnip Canker P

Parthenocarpic P

A variety that does not require pollination to fruit.

Parthenogenesis P

The ability of some female pests to reproduce without fertilization eg. Vine weevils and many types of aphid.

Partial Shade P

Any area of the garden or veg plot that receives sun for part of the day or that sits in light shade.

Partial Sun P

Any area of the garden or veg plot that receives sun for only part of the day.

Pathogen P

An organism that causes disease.

Pathogenic P

An organism, bacteria or virus that causes disease.

Pathovar P

A distinct strain of a named pathogen.

Patio Trained P

A fruit tree specially produced to suit container growing on a patio or deck.

PBR P

An abbreviation for 'Plant Breeders Rights' and refers to the protection given to breeders and hybridizers of new varieties.

Pea and Bean Weevil P

Pea Aphid P

Pea Cyst Nematode P

Pea Leaf and Pod Spot P

Pea Midge P

Pea Moth P

Pea Thrips P

Peach Leaf Curl P

Peach Potato Aphid P

Pear and Cherry Slugworm P

Pear Leaf Blister Mite P

Pear Midge P

Peat P

An organic material comprised of decaying vegetation such as moss or grasses, found in damp or wet areas.

Peat Block P

A compressed block of peat or compost used for propagation purposes.

Peat Moss P

Peat comprised of decayed sphagnum moss.

Peat-Free P

Compost made without peat.

Ped P

The structural unit formed when soil particles bind together.

Pedology P

The study of soil.

Pedosphere P

The uppermost layer of the Earth's surface, composed of soil and subject to change due to erosion by water and wind.

Peduncle P

The stem that holds a flower or fruit, see also 'Pedicel'.

Pelleted Chicken Manure P

A pelleted form of fertiliser made from processed chicken manure.

Pelleted Seed P

Seed that has been coated in a compound to enable easier sowing and handling, sometimes called a pill.

Pelletised P

Any seed that has been coated to form a pelleted seed.

Peltate P

A botanical term used to describe a leaf that has a stem connecting within the leaf body.

Peltate P

Having the stalk attached in the centre.

Perch P

See 'Rod'.

Perennial P

Any plant that flowers, dies and returns after a period of dormancy.

Perfect/Complete flower P

A flower that has both male and female sexual organs.

Perfoliate P

A botanical term used to describe a stem that is completely encircled by a leaf.

Perianth P

The part of a flower which is comprised of the calyx and corolla.

Perlite P

A naturally occurring volcanic glass used for propagation and compost amending.

Perlka P

A speciality nitrogenous fertiliser containing calcium cyanamide that is manufactured from naturally occurring raw materials that include atmospheric nitrogen, coal and limestone. It acts as a useful source of slow-release nitrogen and also lime.

Permaculture P

A system of growing in an ecological way where all cultural methods act in a sustainable way working in harmony with nature and the environment.

Permafrost P

A layer of soil that remains in a frozen state throughout the year.

Permanent Wilting Point P

The point at which a plant has used all available water in the soil and wilts.

Perpetual P

A term used to describe plants that either flower or fruit over a prolonged period.

Persistence P

The length of time a chemical remains active.

Pest P

Any animal or insect that causes damage to plants.

Pesticide P

Any chemical used to control pest infestations.

Pesticide Adjuvant P

A chemical added to a pesticide formulation or tank mix to increase its effectiveness or safety. See also 'Wetting Agent'.

Pesticide Resistance P

A pest that has built up a tolerance to a particular insecticide or its active ingredient.

Petal P

One of the separate leaves of the corolla of a flower.

Petal Blight P

Petaloid P

Resembling a petal without being a true petal.

Petiole P

The stalk that joins a leaf to the plants stem.

Petiole P

The stalk of a leaf.

PGPR P

Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria.

pH p

'Potential of Hydrogen' the measure of how acidic or alkaline a liquid is. The scale runs from 0 (acidic) -14 (alkaline) with 7 being neutral.

Phanerogams P

Plants that have seeds. See also Spermatophytes.

Phenolic Substances P

Plant phenolics are generally involved in defence against ultraviolet radiation or aggression by pathogens, parasites and predators, as well as contributing to a plant's colours.

phenotype p

The visual appearance of a plant or other organisms, such as colour size or shape.

Pheromone P

A chemical that is secreted to attract the opposite sex.

Pheromone Monitoring P

Traps containing pheromone that attracts, usually the males, of a particular species to determine the presence of or severity of an infestation.

Pheromone Trap P

A trap that contains a particular pheromone designed to trap insects.

Phloem P

Vascular tissue that facilitates the movement of sugars produced as a result of photosynthesis, around a plant.

Phoma P

Phosphate P

A form of phosphorous found in soil. Consists of phosphorous bound to oxygen. Any salt of phosphoric acid.

Phospholipid fatty acid analysis (PLFA) P

Provides a measurement of soil microbial biomass.

Phosphorus (P) P

An essential chemical element used in fertilisers, that plants need to make DNA and cell membranes. It is an essential nutrient for root development.

Photoblastic P

A seed whose germination is influenced by the effect of light. See also Positive Photoblastic, Non Photoblastic and Negative Photoblastic.

Photoblastic (Non) P

Seeds that will germinate in either light or darkness.

Photoconversion P

A chemical change effected by light.

Photodegradable Mulch P

A synthetic mulch that breaks down in the presence of sunlight/UV.

Photoperiodism P

A reaction to day length.

photosynthate p

A sugar that is produced as a result of photosynthesis.

Photosynthates P

All of the food products within plants resulting from photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis P

A process within a plant that enables it to use water, carbon dioxide and sunlight to produce energy enabling it to grow.

Photosynthetically Active Radiation P

The amount of light (PAR) available to a plant for photosynthesis.

Phototrophic P

An organism that uses sunlight for the production of organic compounds.

Phototropism P

Responsive to light.

Phylloplane P

The surface area of leaves.

Phyllosphere P

The plant habitat for microbes that is above soil level rather than the underground parts such as the root system (Rhizosphere).

Physiological Disorder P

A disorder caused by environmental actions such as waterlogging, pollution, adverse weather, rather than form a pathogen.

Phytohormone P

Plant hormones that influence actions within plants.

Phytophthora P

Phytoremediation P

The use of certain plant types to clean toxic soil or water.

Phytosiderophores P

organic substances produced by certain plants (Poaceae species) that are capable of chelating certain elements such as iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn).

Phytotoxic P

Harmful to plants.

Pill P

See 'Pelleted Seed'.

Pillar Fruit Trees P

A term used to describe any tree grown as a column.

Pilose P

A leaf or stem with long soft hairs.

Pinching P

The removal of a plants growing point, central bud or main shoot. Also known as 'stopping'.

Pine Pit P

A pit or hole in a greenhouse border constructed for the growing of pineapples.

Pink Root (alliums) P

Pink Rot (potatoes) P

Pinking P

A condition associated with hot weather that affects cauliflower and causes a pink colouration to the curds rather than the usual pure white. Covering the developing curds with the cauliflower foliage will help to eliminate the condition. Pinking does not affect the flavour.

Pinnate P

A leaf shape resembling a feather.

Pinnule P

A secondary division of a leaf.

Pinnule Segment P

A division of a pinnule.

Pinnulet P

Divisions of pinnules.

Pistil P

The ovule producing part of a flower that if pollinated, becomes the fruit.

Pistillate P

Having pistils but no stamens, a flower with female organs only.

Pit Rot (potatoes) P

Plant P

A living organism that has a root system, stalks, leaves and flowers.

Plant (to) P

The action of placing a plant into the soil or other growing media for growing-on. Also called transplanting or planting-out.

Plant Extract P

A substance that is removed from a plant.

Plant Health Enhancement P

Anything that is used to improve the health of a plant.

Plant Out P

The action of placing a plant into the soil or other growing media for growing-on. Also called transplanting.

Plant Spheres P

Plant Spheres are areas of a plant that are separated into the Rhizosphere (below-ground parts such as roots) or Phyllosphere (above-ground, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits).

Plant Up P

A term referring to potting into another container or a larger sized container.

Plant–Soil Feedback P

A process where plants alter the biotic and abiotic qualities of soil they grow in, which then alters the ability of plants to grow in that soil in the future. Wikipedia

Plasmodium P

A genus of parasitic protozoans.

Pleach P

See 'Pleaching'.

Pleaching P

A method of training trees onto a framework that eventually forms a flat screen-like form, often used for hedging purposes.

Plug P

A small plant or seedling grown in a peat or compost filled module.

Plum (tomato) P

A type of tomato that has few seeds and suits processing into sauces.

Plum Fruit Moth P

Plum Leaf-curling Aphid P

Plumose P

Plumed or feathery.

Plunge Bed P

A bed constructed for burying plants in pots to stop them drying out or to protect from extremes of weather.

Point of Deliquescence P

When the humidity level rises to a point at which a fertiliser dissolves.

Pole P

See Rod.

Pollard P

A hard pruning technique applied to certain types of trees.

Pollarding P

The process of making pollard cuts to a tree.

Pollen P

A powdery substance produced by flowers which is the plant equivalent of male sperm.

Pollen Beetle P

Pollinate P

The transfer of pollen between male and females parts of a flower.

Pollination P

The process of transferring pollen from the anther (male flower part) to the stigma (female flower part).

Pollinator P

An insect that transfers pollen from one flower to another.

Pollinator Bed P

A bed of flowering plants grown to attract pollinator insects such as bees.

Polycarpic P

Any plant that reproduces more than once before its eventual death.

Polyphagous P

Pests that feed on a wide selection of different plant species.

Polyploid P

Double the number (or more) of the usual chromosomes within a cell nucleus.

Polytunnel P

A polythene covered structure used for growing crops.

Pome P

A term used to describe the fruits of apples and other members of the 'malus' genus. Also of Pears.

Poor Fruit Set P

Pop-tops P

Another term for hardneck garlic.

Porcelain Type P

A type of hardneck garlic originating from the Caucasus mountains.

Pores P

The space between soil particles which can be filled with water or air.

Porosity P

The gaps between soil particles that hold water and air.

Porosphere P

The total pore space within soil.

Positive Photoblastic P

Seeds that require light for germination.

Post and Wire P

A modern system for growing fruit trees.

Post-emergence P

Refers to any herbicide applied to the soil after the emergence of germinated seed.

Pot P

A container for plants.

Pot On P

To pot a plant up into a larger size container.

Pot Up P

See 'Pot On'.

Potager P

A French word meaning small kitchen garden.

Potash P

A potassium-rich salt essential for the healthy growth of plants and in particular, bud and flower formation.

Potassium (K) P

An essential element required for healthy plant growth.

Potassium Deficiency P

Potassium Sulphate P

See Sulphate of Potash.

Potato Aphid P

Potato Black Leg P

Potato Blight P

Potato Clamp P

See 'Clamp'.

Potato Common Scab P

Potato Cyst Eelworm P

Potato Leafhoppers P

Potato Leafroll Virus (PLRV) P

Potato Mop Top Virus (PMTV) P

See 'Spraing'.

Potato Powdery Scab P

Potato Virus M (PVM) P

Potato Virus S (PVS) P

Potato virus X (PVX) P

Potato Virus Y (PVY) P

Potato Viruses P

Potting P

The process of placing a plant or bulbs into a pot with soil or compost.

Potting Media P

A growing media such as compost or loam used for potting up plants.

Potting Soil/Compost P

See 'potting media'.

Powdery Mildew P

Powdery Scab (potatoes) P

Pre-emergence P

A term used to describe certain herbicides that are applied to the soil before drilled seeds germinate and emerge.

Precocious P

Usually referring to a fruit tree that flowers/fruits earlier than normal due to the type of rootstock used.

Precocious P

A tree that fruits earlier than usual because of the rootstock type used.

Predator P

Generally refers to any insect or animal that attack unwanted pests in the garden or on the plot eg. frogs, beetles, ladybirds, lacewings etc.

Prevention P

An action or chemical that stops a pest or disease establishing.

Prick Out P

The process of transplanting seedlings from propagation trays into growing-on containers.

Prill P

A pellet or solid globule of a substance formed by the congealing of a liquid, usually referring to fertiliser.

Primary Branch P

A branch growing from the main trunk of a tree.

Primary Inoculum P

Spores or fragments of mycelium capable of initiating disease.

Primed Seed P

A technique applied to seeds by the supplier that starts the germination process and enables higher levels and more efficient germination.

Primocane P

A cane fruit, such as raspberry or blackberry, that fruits on new growth rather than a 'floricane' that fruits on old or second-year wood.

Probiotics P

Live bacteria and yeasts.

Procumbent P

Laying flat on the ground.

Production Asset P

A trait that is bred into a variety that assists the grower eg. improved drought, pest and disease resistance, longer shelf life.

Production Cycle P

The complete cycle from seed sowing to maturity.

Production Segment P

A period during the growing season when a particular variety has been bred to come to maturity.

Productive P

A plant or growing system that produces above-average yields.

proliferation p

The production of extra flowers or flower buds.

Proline P

An important amino acid that helps a plant recover from stress.

Propagate P

To create new or increase the numbers of a plant.

Propagator P

A device that creates an environment suited to the propagation of plants.

Prostrate P

A plant that's growth is lateral and near to the ground.

Protected Cropping P

Crops grown undercover, usually inside a greenhouse, polytunnel or cloche.

Protists P

Single-celled organisms, such as protozoa. Not plant, animal or fungus.

Protozoa P

Protozoa are single-celled organisms that are found in many environments including the soil.

Proximal P

The part of a leaf closest to the point of attachment.

Prune P

See 'Prunning'.

Pruning P

The removal of parts of a plant, tree or shrub to improve shape, remove old wood or to allow it to regenerate.

Pseudostem P

A false stem made of the rolled bases of leaves.

Psychrophillic Bacteria P

Microorganisms, particularly bacteria, that are capable of living a reproducing at low temperatures and are common in 'cold' compost heaps.

Pteridophyte P

A traditional term for ferns.

Pubescent P

Covered in very fine hairs.

Pupa P

Also known as a 'Chrysalis' the resting period an insect goes through before pupation.

Pupation P

The period when insects morph from larvae to adult.

Pure Stand P

A crop, usually referring to a cover crop, consisting of a single plant type, variety or species.

Purity P

A term used for seed that has not been manipulated, modified or altered in any way.

Pustule P

A spore mass that develops below the epidermis and breaks through at maturity.

Putrefaction P

The rotting down and decomposition of organic material.

PVY ntn (potatoes) P

Pyramid P

A shape resulting from pruning commonly used for fruit trees.

Pyretrum P

A type of plant used for ornamental purposes and for the creation of organic insecticides.

Pyriform P

Pear-shaped.

Pyruvate Scale P

The Pyruvate Scale measures pungency in garlic and onions. Supasweets are a two, your standard brown onion is a seven. Peeling onions makes you cry because they contain pyruvic acid which is released when an onion is cut.

Pythium P

Pythium (potatoes) P

Q4 Q

A popular all-purpose fertiliser produced by 'Vitax'.

Quassia Q

The wood of a tropical tree, which when boiled in water, can be used as an organic insecticide.

Quicklime Q

An outdated soil dressing, also known as 'Lump Lime'.

Quince Leaf Blight Q

R Stage R

The reproductive stages of the sweetcorn growth cycle. (See Sweetcorn Growth Stages).

Race R

A particular strain, usually referring to fungi.

Raceme R

A botanical term used to describe elongated, unbranched flower clusters in which each flower is attached by a stalk to the main stem.

Rachis R

A stem of a plant, such as a tomato, bearing flower stalks at short intervals which in turn will carry the fruit.

Radicle R

An embryonic root.

Raffia R

A traditional plant fibre used for tying purposes, especially for the preparation of some show/exhibition vegetables.

Rain Gauge R

A container used to measure the amount of rainfall.

Raised Bed R

A planting bed constructed, often from timber, above ground level.

Rake R

A garden implement used for levelling soil.

Raspberry Beetle R

Raspberry Cane R

The growth that raspberry fruit will grow and ripen on.

Raspberry Cane Blight R

Raspberry Leaf and Bud Mite R

Raspberry Spur Blight R

Raspberry Viruses R

Recalcitrant R

A hard to decompose material.

Recurrent R

Repeat Flowering.

Red Core R

Red Spider Mite R

Redox Potential R

Electrons are essential to all inorganic and organic chemical reactions. The redox potential of soil is a measure of electrochemical potential or electron availability within it.

Reflexed R

To bend or curve downwards.

Regenerate R

To hard prune a plant and let it reestablish.

Rejuvenative Pruning R

See Restorative Pruning.

Relative Humidity R

An amount of moisture in the air given as a percentage of the total amount the air is capable of holding.

Remedial Pruning R

The removal of diseased, damaged or dead wood.

Remediate R

To make good, repair or return to its original condition, usually referring to the condition of soil.

ReMin R

A volcanic rock dust based product that contains all 17 essential minerals and trace elements required for healthy soil and compost.

Remontant R

Repeat Flowering.

Renewal Pruning R

Where old wood is removed to allow new growth.

Reniform R

A botanical term used to describe leaves that are kidney-shaped.

Repeat Flowering R

When a plant flowers more than once in a single season. See also 'Recurrent' and 'Remontant'.

Repellent R

Anything that deters an insect or other pest without killing it.

Replant Disease Complex R

Also known as 'Replant Syndrome' a disease of fruit trees and other members of the rose family, caused by allelopathy and an imbalance of soil bacteria, fungi and physical condition, resulting in abnormal development, quality and yields of follow on crops of similar species.

Replant Diseases R

Replant Syndrome R

See 'Replant Disease Complex'.

Residue Profile R

A term used to describe the amount of residue from chemical applications visible on growing crops.

Resistance R

The inherent capacity of a host plant to prevent or reduce the development of a pest or disease.

Resistant Variety R

The inherent capacity of a specific variety to prevent or reduce the development of a pest or disease.

Responsibly Sourced Growing Media R

Growing media that has been responsibly produced from a renewable or recycled resource.

Resting Period R

A period when soil is not used for cultivation.

Restorative Pruning R

A pruning technique where old overgrown fruit trees are severely pruned to bring them back to a more manageable and productive state.

Retarding R

To hold back.

Reticulate R

A network of veins. leaves with a reticulate vein structure.

Reversion R

When growth of a plant reverts back to the original form it was bred from.

Reversion Disease R

Revive R

To bring back, to restore.

Rhizobiome R

The microbiome that inhabits the root area of a plant.

Rhizobium Bacteria R

Also known as Rhizobia, they are root bacteria that colonise roots of legumes, forming nodules that fix atmospheric nitrogen.

Rhizoctonia R

Rhizoctonia distortion (potatoes) R

Rhizomatous Roots R

Underground plant stems capable of producing new roots and plants.

Rhizome R

An elongated, horizontal underground root that can put up shoots along its length.

Rhizomorph R

A cord-like fungal structure.

Rhizoplane R

Plant root surface, including any microbes that are attached.

Rhizosheath R

Coatings of soil particles that cling to plant roots, making roots brown instead of white.

Rhizosphere R

A region of the soil that surrounds and is influenced by the roots.

Rhizospheric R

Refers to the root environment in the soil (See Rhizosphere).

RHS R

An abbreviation for The Royal Horticultural Society.

Riddle R

A grid or mesh used to sieve and separate various materials from soil.

Ridging R

Where soil is mounted up in rows sometimes used to 'weather' heavy soils.

Rijnsburger R

A type of onion.

Rind Grafting R

A form of grafting used on fruit trees. See 'Top Working'.

Ringspot R

Ripe R

Mature, ready for harvesting.

Ripen R

The process of maturing.

Ripping R

A term that refers to florets detaching in cauliflower.

Rocambole R

A type of hardneck garlic that produces a scape or flowering stem.

Rockwool R

A rock-based mineral fibre comprised of basalt rock and recycled slag (a waste product of the smelting industry) that is used as a growing medium in hydroponic culture.

Rod R

An ancient form of measurement. Also known as pole or perch, 1 rod = 5.5 yards (5.03m). A standard allotment is usually 10 rods. 1 rood = 0.25 acres.

Rod (Grapevine) R

A main stem.

Rogue R

A spurious variety, not true to type.

Roguing R

The process of removing unwanted 'rogue' varieties from a growing crop.

Roma (tomato) R

A popular, virtually seedless, variety of tomato.

Romanesco R

Romanesco or Romanesco broccoli is a pale green type of autumn heading cauliflower. It has a unique appearance and mild flavour.

Root R

The part of a plant or tree responsible for anchorage and uptake of water and nutrients.

Root Aphid R

Root Asphyxia R

Root Ball R

The main mass of root immediately below the stem of a plant, shrub or tree.

Root balling R

The process of wrapping a bare root tree or shrub in soil and covering in hessian held together with a wire casing.

Root Bound R

When the container a plant is growing in becomes very root-infested and restricts any further growth.

Root Crop R

A crop where the edible part is produced underground eg. potatoes, carrots, beetroot and parsnips.

Root Cutting R

A cutting prepared from a section of root used to propagate new plants.

Root Exudate R

See Exudates

Root Knot Eelworm R

Root Mass Proliferation (RMP) R

A tumorous swelling at the ground line or below ground that is often observed in some rootstocks.

Root Nodules R

A specialised plant organ on roots of legumes that it uses on a symbiotic bases with rhizobia to allow the plant to fix atmospheric nitrogen.

Root Prune R

To prune away and reduce a certain quantity of roots from a plant.

Root Rot R

A number of unrelated diseases that can affect roots.

Root Run R

The extension of a plants roots into the soil.

Root Trainer R

A perfectly shaped module that allows easy transplanting of young plants.

Root Vegetable R

See Root Crop.

Root-To-Shoot-Ratio R

The proportional size of a plants roots to its top growth.

Rooting Gel R

A water-based gel that is applied to the base of cuttings that seals the cut and supplies hormones to promote root growth.

Rooting Hormone R

A hormone-containing powder or gel that is applied to the cut end of a cutting to promote root growth.

Rooting Powder R

See Rooting Hormone.

Rootstock R

A rooted section of an established plant which has a graft of another plant (scion) grafted to it. Rootstocks are used for improved disease resistance and increased plant vigour.

Rose (Watering) R

An attachment that fits a watering can that delivers water as a shower rather than a solid flow.

Rose End R

The end of a potato tuber furthest away from the point of attachment to the plant. Also known as the 'Apical end/bud'.

Rosette R

A rose-shaped flower.

Rosy Apple Aphid R

Rot R

A term generally used to mean going mouldy, decay or deteriorate.

Rotation R

A term used when one family of crops eg. brassicas are not grown on the same plot two seasons running. This helps to eliminate potential disease issues and nutrition exhaustion. See also 'Crop Rotation'.

Rotational Conflict R

Where one crop eg. green manure or cover crop, is still growing on land that is required for a 'cash' crop.

Row R

A straight line of plants or seedlings.

Row Cover R

Any material that covers growing plants.

RSGM R

Abbreviation for responsibly-sourced growing media.

Rubbery Rot (potatoes) R

Rubbing Out R

The removal of soft growing points by hand.

Rugose R

Rough or wrinkled

Ruminant R

A mammal that chews the cud including cows, sheep, goats and deer.

Ruminant manure R

Manure resulting from ruminant animals such as cows, sheep and goats.

Run-off R

Water that flows off the soil surface rather than soaking in.

Runner R

Offspring that present themselves on horizontal stolons produced by strawberry plants.

Runting Out R

A colloquial term for a fruit tree that does not fruit or has become biennial bearing.

Russeting R

Russeting is an abnormality of fruit skin which shows as russet-coloured (brownish) patches that are rougher to the touch. It is a common issue in apples and pears.

Rust R

A general term applied to a variety of diseases than manifest as rust-like coloured fungi.

Rusts R

Sagittate S

Arrow-shaped usually applied to leaf shape.

Salinisation S

Where there is a build-up of salt in the soil.

San Marzano (tomato) S

A type/variety of Italian tomato that lends itself towards the making of pasta sauce or passata.

Sand S

A granular rock or mineral.

Sandy S

Soil containing an above-average quantity of sand particles.

Sap S

The fluid that transports energy around the tissues and cells of plants.

Sap-Sucking Pests S

Insects that feed on plant sap and excrete a sticky honeydew.

Saprophyte/s S

A fungus that lives on dead or decaying organic material.

Saprophytic S

An organism that derives its nutrients from dead or decaying tissue of another organism.

Sapwood S

The most recently formed wood of a tree. See also 'Alburnum'.

Savoy S

A type of crinkled cabbage.

Scaffold Branches S

The main branches of a tree.

Scale Insect S

Scandent S

A climbing plant.

Scape S

A flower stem that appears straight out of the soil without foliage. See also 'Garlic Scapes'.

Scarification S

A 'scratching' process applied to seed to encourage germination or to remove moss and thatch from lawns.

Scarious S

Thin and dry-looking, often translucent.

Sciarid Flies S

Scientific Name S

A unique name known as 'binomial nomenclature' that is given to every living species.

Scion S

The section of a plant that is inserted into the rootstock during the process of grafting.

Sclerotia S

Compact masses of fungal hyphae capable of remaining dormant for long periods and giving rise to fruiting bodies or mycelium.

Sclerotinia S

Scorch S

To burn, dry or shrivel.

Scorch S

Scouting S

Looking for pest and disease pressure within growing crops.

Scoville Scale S

Named after the scientist Wilbur Scoville, a scale that measures capsaicinoids or the heat of chilli peppers, often abbreviated by SHU.

Scrim S

An old fashioned shading material made from cotton.

Sea-Kale Pot S

A pot used for forcing Sea-Kale.

Season S

Spring, summer, autumn and winter. A period throughout the year defined by weather and daylight hours.

Season Extension S

Techniques that extend a normal cropping period eg. growing under glass/plastic or use of heating/artificial lighting. Using certain varieties and planting times can also manipulate normal cropping periods.

Seaweed Product S

Any garden product that has seaweed as a key ingredient. Often used as an organic fertiliser or plant/soil stimulant.

Secateurs S

A scissor-like tool used for pruning.

Second Cropping Potato S

Potato seed that has been held back with a view to being planted during the summer for cropping during late autumn.

Second Early S

A term used to describe varieties that follow 1st earlies but harvest before mid or late season alternatives.

Secondary Branches S

Branches growing from primary or main branches.

Secondary Growth S

New growth as a result of summer pruning.

Sedge Peat S

Peat that is derived from a sedge (a type of grass) bog. Sedge Peat is typically found in Somerset.

Sediment S

A layer of settled material.

Seed S

The resulting product or ripened ovules of plants containing an embryo used for sowing for the purpose of producing a new crop.

Seed Bed S

Any piece of soil prepared for the sowing or drilling of seed.

Seed Bulb S

A term used for the garlic bulb which is in turn divided into individual cloves.

Seed Clove S

A term used to describe the individual garlic cloves split from a seed bulb.

Seed Coat S

A coating that is added to the outside of seed to improve handling or to add fertiliser, stimulant or fungicide.

Seed Coating S

The process of adding seed coating to seed. See 'Seed Coat'.

Seed Dressing S

See 'Seed Treatment'.

Seed Drill S

A mechanical device used for sowing/drilling seed.

Seed Drilling S

The process of mechanically sowing seed into the soil.

Seed House S

A company that breeds or sells seeds.

Seed Life S

The viable life of a dormant seed.

Seed Piece S

A term used to describe how a potato tuber is divided into individual pieces with at least one eye.

Seed Potato S

Potato tubers used to grow a new crop.

Seed Priming S

Processes that start the germination of a seed, the most conventional being hydro-priming that soaks seed in water for a period of time before sowing.

Seed Sowing S

The process of sowing seed for germination.

Seed Sowing Media S

Any media, usually compost, that seed is sown into for the purpose of germination.

Seed Sprouter S

A device that germinates seeds for consumption at the 'sprouted' stage.

Seed Tray S

A tray used for the germination of seed.

Seed Treatment S

Any additive applied to seed before sowing eg. fertiliser or fungicide. Also known as seed dressing.

Seedling S

The result of a germinated seed with an embryonic root, embryonic shoot and cotyledons or first young leaves.

Seedling S

A rootstock that is full-sized 100% standard.

Seep Hose S

A hose made from reconstituted rubber that 'sweats' and slowly delivers water over the entire length of the hose.

Selective Herbicide S

A herbicide that will only kill certain weeds.

Self S

A flower with a single colour.

Self-Fertile S

Usually referring to fruit trees that can be pollinated by pollen from the same tree or variety.

Self-Infertile S

Some fruit types, such as some apple cultivars, have self-incompatible flowers meaning they need to be pollinated by a different variety of the same fruit but they can still be used to pollinate other cultivars.

Self-Pollinating S

Pollen that is transferred to the stigma from the anther of the same flower or plant.

Self-Sterile S

A plant/tree requiring pollen but not necessarily from a clone to produce viable seed. Pollination is carried out with pollen from a different cultivar. Trees that are self-sterile cannot be used to pollinate other trees.

Semi-Evergreen S

Any plant that holds some of its foliage during the winter/dormant period.

Semi-Organic S

An organic product or system that has an added synthetic or chemical component.

Semi-Ripe S

Usually referring to a type of cutting that is still soft and not fully mature, or hardwood.

Seminal S

From seeds, propagation from seed.

Seminal roots S

Roots that develop directly from the seed.

Semiochemical S

A chemical emitted by plants.

Senescence S

The dying process of a plant or plant part.

Sepal S

One of the separate leaves forming the calyx of a flower.

Sequestering Agent S

See Chelating Agent.

Sequestrant S

A compound that can bind with a metal ion and prevent it from reacting with other compounds. Also known as a chelating agent.

Serpent Garlic S

Another term for hardneck garlic due to the coiled nature of the stems or scapes produced.

Sessile S

Leaves and flowers that have no stalks.

Set S

A small onion produced in one year, used for growing on into a fully mature crop the following year.

Set (to) S

When a flower has been fertilised and the fruit begins to develop.

Shading S

Any material that eliminates a percentage of sunlight.

Shanking (Grapes) S

Shelter Belt S

A screen usually of trees or hedging provided to shelter an area from inclement, especially windy, weather.

Shingling (onions) S

A term used for laying out onions after lifting where the foliage of one bulb covers another to stop scorching in very sunny weather.

Shoddy S

A term for wool that can be used as an organic fertiliser.

Shoot S

The emerging growth from a seed, tuber or bulb as it germinates or starts into growth.

Short Cycle S

A crop that matures in a relatively short period in comparison to other varieties or types. First-earlies fall into this category.

Short-Day S

A term to describe when hours of darkness exceed the hours of daylight. This period exists naturally between the autumn and spring equinoxes.

Short-Day Onion S

An onion that is started during late summer or autumn and is over-wintered, growing through days of shorter day length.

Show Board S

A board used for exhibiting and displaying fruit and vegetables.

SHU S

Abbreviation for the Scoville Heat Scale, the scale that measures the heat or pungency of chillies.

Shucking S

To remove something from its outer shell ie, to remove peas from a pod.

Side Dress S

See 'Side Dressing'.

Side Dressing S

To apply fertiliser along a row of growing crops.

Siderophore S

Siderophores are synthesized and secreted by many bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and plants with a high affinity for chelating iron (Fe).

Sieve S

A device consisting of a metal or plastic mesh held inside a ring, used for separating stones and other materials from soil or compost. Sometimes known as a riddle.

Silk S

The elongated stigmas (Stigma maydis) from the female flowers of sweetcorn that appear at the end of the developing cobs, which turn brown when the cob is mature and ready for harvest.

Silt S

Particles of soil that size-wise, sit between sand and clay.

Silver Leaf S

Silver Sand S

A very fine grade of white sand.

Silver Scurf (potatoes) S

Silver Skin S

A late maturing type of softneck garlic with high dormancy levels and very good keeping qualities.

Silver Y Moth S

Silviculture S

The term used for managing the growth of trees in woodland.

Silvo Pasture S

The practice of integrating trees into forage (grazing) pasture.

Simple S

A leaf that is whole and has no serration or division.

Single Flower S

A flower with only one set of petals.

Single-Grained S

A soil with no structure, such as a beach or desert.

Singling S

An alternative term for 'thinning'.

Sinus S

The gap between teeth or lobes of a frond on a fern.

Skin Spot (potatoes) S

Slime Mould / Mold S

Single-celled organisms that begin life germinating from spores into myxamoebae and develop as amoeba-like organisms.

Slip Garden S

Also known simply as 'The Slips' an area outside of the traditional wall garden used for bulk crops such as potatoes, or for storage of manure heaps.

Slippery Skin S

Slips S

Planting material for a sweet potato crop. Shoots attached to a section of sweet potato skin that root once they are planted.

Slow-Release Fertiliser S

A fertiliser that releases nutrient on a time-delayed basis.

Sludge S

A semi-solid, thick liquid, often associated with waste sewage by-products.

Sludge Cake S

The end product from sewage treatment processes often used as an agricultural fertiliser or soil conditioner.

Slugs and Snails S

Small White Butterfly S

Smith Period S

A model used to predict late blight. It is defined as a period of 2 consecutive days with temperatures above 10oc and relative humidity above 90% for no less than 11 hours on each day.

Smut S

A fungal disease affecting grasses and cereals that leaves a black powder on the ears.

Snag S

The remaining stub left after pruning.

Snatch and Go S

A stop-start harvest due to inclement weather.

Soaker Hose S

See 'Seep Hose'.

Sod S

A section of soil with grass or turf attached.

Softneck S

A term applied to garlic that does not produce a scape or flowering stem.

Soil S

A combination of sand, clay, organic material, fungi, bacteria, water and air that crops can grow in.

Soil Aggregation S

Involves the binding together of several soil particles into secondary units.

Soil Amendment S

Anything that is added to soil with the intention of improving it.

Soil Bacteria S

Bacteria that are found in soil and are essential for healthy plant life, mineral utilisation, nutrient recycling and nitrogen fixation.

Soil Biota S

All living organisms found in soil including bacteria and fungi.

Soil Blocker S

A device for making soil or peat blocks. See also 'Peat Blocks'.

Soil Conditioner S

A soil amendment that improves structure, water holding capacity and may add nutrients improving general fertility.

Soil Crust S

A compacted layer of soil.

Soil Enhancer S

Anything that is added to the soil to improve its fertility. See also 'Soil Conditioner'.

Soil Erosion S

The movement of soil due to water runoff or displacement by the wind.

Soil Fauna S

The total of all micro and macro-organisms living in a particular soil.

Soil Fertility S

The ability of soil to provide the conditions required for a plant to reach its full potential yield.

Soil Food Web S

The complex group of soil-dwelling organisms that include bacteria, fungi, nematodes and all other animals and insects that rely on each other for their survival.

Soil Health S

The capacity of soil to function as an ecosystem to support plant life.

Soil Horizon S

The various layers that make up a soil profile. O- Organic layer, A- Topsoil, B- Subsoil and C- Parent material.

Soil Inoculant S

An amendment added to the soil that uses beneficial microbes to enhance healthy soil and plant growth.

Soil Microbiome S

The ecosystem of living organisms found in soil.

Soil Organic Matter S

The component of soil that consists of decaying/composted animal or plant remains.

Soil pH S

See 'pH'.

Soil Polymers S

Polymers that are added to soil to stabilise it, reduce degradation and improve water holding capacity.

Soil Porosity S

The gaps in the soil that are taken up with water and air.

Soil Profile S

The various layers found in soil. They include topsoil, subsoil and parent material from rock layers below. The depth of these individual layers depends on the history of the soil.

Soil Remediation S

To purify and decontaminate polluted soils.

Soil Sickness S

A condition where soil has become infertile due to the high levels of pathogens present, often introduced by growing crops.

Soil Structure S

How soil is arranged according to the volume of each component that includes sand, clay and organic material.

Soil Testing S

Tests that can determine the nutrient content of soil as well as EC levels and pH.

Soil Texture S

The relative proportions of sand silt and clay particles that go towards creating a soil structure.

Soil-Warming Cable S

A cable used to warm propagators and to provide base heat.

Soilless Cultivation S

Any method of growing plants without soil.

Soilless Media S

Any growing media that does not contain soil eg. rockwool.

Solanaceae S

A genus of plants, also known as nightshades, that includes potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and chillis, and aubergines.

Solarisation S

A technique for sterilising soil by covering the soil or compost with plastic and letting it literally 'cook' in the sun.

Soluble Salts S

Salts that dissolve in water commonly found in soil that include calcium, magnesium and sodium.

SOM S

An abbreviation for Soil Organic Matter.

Sorus S

A cluster of sporangia.

Sour S

A term often applied to soil which is in a biologically unhealthy condition.

Sour Skin (alliums) S

Sow S

The act of placing seeds into a growing media for germination.

Sowing Period S

An optimum period for sowing a particular crop or variety.

Spade S

A garden essential used for digging.

Spawn S

Mushroom mycelium grown on a substrate for the purpose of producing mushrooms.

Spear Rot S

Species S

Organisms in which the members have similar characteristics to each other and can breed with each other.

Specific Suppression S

Antagonistic microorganisms found in the rhizosphere that can limit infection by pathogens.

Specimen S

An impressive plant or tree.

Spent Mushroom Compost S

Compost used for the commercial production of mushrooms that has become exhausted but makes valuable soil conditioner.

Spermatophytes S

Any plant that produces seeds. Also known as phanerogams.

Sphagnum S

A type of moss frequently used for compost production.

Sphagnum Peat S

A compost made from sphagnum moss, typically found in Ireland.

Spindle S

The common name for Prunus spinosa or sloe.

Spindle and Super-Spindle S

Globally, the most common training system in modern apple production. The tree is composed of one leader with lateral outgoing fruit branches forming a conical shape.

Spindle-Bush S

Also known as Knip-Boom. A form of fruit tree pruning and training used by commercial growers.

Spinose S

Plant species with spines, eg. Prunus spinosa (sloe).

Spinulose S

With small spines.

Spit S

A measurement equal to the depth of a spade's blade. Normal digging would be one spit, whereas double digging would be to a depth of two spits.

Splice Graft S

A method of grafting.

Splitting S

Sporangiophore S

A hypha or fruiting structure bearing spores.

Sporangium S

A fruiting body. A container or case of asexual spores.

Spore S

A reproductive unit in fungi.

Sporeling S

A tiny developing fern plant.

Sporocarp S

A multicellular structure in which spores or spore-producing structures are formed.

Sporophyll S

A fertile leaf that carries the sporangia.

Sporophyte S

The generation of ferns that produces the spores.

Sport S

A plant mutation or part of a plant that has mutated.

Sporulation S

The period of active spore production.

Spot Spray S

To apply a liquid spray to an isolated/local area.

Spot Watering S

To water only individually dry plants.

Spraing S

A term given to a potato disorder caused by two viruses, Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) and Potato mop-top virus (PMTV).

Spraing (potatoes) S

Sprayer S

A device for applying liquids as a fine mist.

Sprout S

New small growth from a plant. Also a shortened version of Brussels sprouts.

Spud S

Slang for potato. Also, an old type of hoe.

Spur S

Short side growths from fruit trees and woody shrubs/bushes.

Spur Bearing/Fruiting S

Apple and pear fruit produced from two-year-old wood in groups along a branches length.

Spur Pruning S

Shortening fruiting spurs to stimulate flowering/fruiting.

Spur System S

A pruning technique creating shortened spurs.

Spur Thinning S

Removing sections from spur systems to reduce overcrowding.

Ssp S

Subspecies.

Staging S

Greenhouse benching.

Staking S

The act of driving stakes, canes or similar into the soil for the purpose of supporting plants.

Stale Seedbed S

A method consisting of preparing a seedbed several weeks in advance of sowing/planting a particular crop, and then destroying the accumulated weed one or two days before direct sowing/planting without any further intervention, this enables the new crop to grow away without immediate competition.

A to Z Jargon Buster

A-Frame A

A-Horizon A

Abatis A

Abaxial A

Abiotic A

Abortive A

Abrupt A

Abscission Layer A

Acaricide A

Acaulescent A

Acauline A

Acclimation A

Acephalous A

Achene A

Achlamydeous A

Acicular A

Acicular A

Acid Soil A

Acidic A

Aciform A

Acinaciform A

Acotyledon A

Acre A

Acrogen A

Acrogen A

Acrogen A

Acropetal A

Acroscopic A

Acrospire A

Actinomorphic A

Actinomycetes A

Action Threshold A

Aculeate A

Acuminate A

Acute A

Acute Toxicity A

Adaptation A

Adaxial A

Adhesive Pads A

Adjuvant A

Adnate A

Adpressed A

Adpressed-pilose A

Adventitious A

Aecidial Cups A

Aeciospore A

Aerate A

Aeration A

Aerial Root A

Aerobe A

Aerobic A

Aestivation A

Afforest A

Afila A

After-grass A

Aggregates (soil) A

Aggregatusphere A

Aglet / Aiglet A

AGM A

Agroforestry A

Agronomist A

Agronomy A

Air layering A

Air Pot A

Air-Filled Porosity (AFP) A

Alar A

Alate A

Albumen A

Alburnum A

Aleurone Layer A

Algae A

Alginate A

Alien A

Alkaline soil A

Alkaloid A

Allele A

Allelopathy A

Alleochemical A

Allicin A