R

rotate: To grow different crops from year to year in a field. Rotating crops supports soil health, reduces pest and disease pressure, and improves overall farm productivity.

resistance: The ability of an organism not to be affected by something such as a disease, stress factor, process, or treatment. Managing resistance helps farmers protect crop and livestock health, ensuring sustainable farm productivity.

Rural Inspectorate Wales: The organization that is responsible for administering CAP schemes in Wales. Abbreviation: RIW. The RIW supports farmers by ensuring compliance with agricultural regulations and promoting best practices.

root system: All the roots of a plant. Managing root systems supports healthy crop growth and soil health.

Radnor: A breed of small hill sheep similar to the Welsh Mountain. Offers farmers a hardy breed option well-suited for rough terrains, enhancing farm productivity and wool/meat quality.

rhizoctonia root rot: A common soil fungus (Rhizoctonia solani) which attacks the roots of seedlings and retards growth. Managing this fungus is crucial for protecting crop health and ensuring optimal growth.

rough grazing: Unimproved grazing, found in mountain, heath, and moorland areas. Utilizing rough grazing supports livestock production on marginal lands and enhances biodiversity.

rust: A fungal disease that gives plants a reddish powdery covering. Managing rust is crucial for protecting crop health and ensuring high-quality yields.

roguing glove: A glove impregnated with herbicide, used to destroy wild oats. Using roguing gloves helps farmers manage weeds effectively and protect crop health.

RAS: Abbreviation for Royal Agricultural Societies. These societies support farmers through research, education, and advocacy, enhancing agricultural practices and policies.

retail: The sale of small quantities of goods to the general public. Engaging in retail sales allows farmers to capture higher profit margins and connect directly with consumers.

rice: A plant that is the most important cereal crop and the staple food of half the population of the world. Latin name: Oryza sativa. Growing rice provides farmers with a staple crop that has high demand and multiple market applications.

restore: To give something back, or put something back to a previous state or position. Restoring soil health and fertility supports sustainable farming practices and ensures long-term productivity.

rafter: To plough land, leaving a space between the furrows. Helps farmers manage soil erosion and maintain soil health by controlling water runoff.

responsible care: An initiative of the chemical industry which requires member firms to follow codes of conduct on such matters as toxic materials, waste reduction, chemical-accident minimization, worker safety, and community consultation. Following responsible care principles ensures safe and sustainable agricultural practices.

recessive: (of a gene or genetically controlled characteristic) suppressed by the presence of a corresponding dominant gene. Understanding genetics helps farmers with selective breeding programs to enhance desirable traits in crops and livestock.

residual: Referring to the amount of something that is left behind. Understanding residual levels helps farmers manage pesticide and fertilizer use, ensuring food safety and environmental health.

roe deer: One of the breeds of deer which are found wild in the UK. Understanding local wildlife helps farmers manage land and protect crops from grazing animals.

radicle: The tiny structure in a plant embryo from which the root will develop. Understanding radicle growth is essential for farmers to ensure proper seed germination and healthy crop development.

rotation design: A method of conserving soil nutrients in organic farming by planting different crops in different years. Using rotation designs supports sustainable farming practices and soil health.

rural environment: The countryside. Protecting the rural environment supports sustainable agriculture and enhances biodiversity.