photosynthesis is the process in which plants use energy from the sun to transform carbon dioxide, water and minerals to oxygen and organic compounds

A perennial plant is one that persists for many growing seasons. Many will keep their leaves year round, while some may die back and re-grow from the same root system.

A constant liquid fertilizer is a water-soluble fertilizer that is added to irrigation water and applied to plants during watering times

The term substrate, in a agricultural science context, is a general term used when referring to the medium in which a plant/crop is grown.

A panicle is a flower cluster that typically grows at the end of a shoot or stem.

Soil-Plant Analysis Development refers to the method for estimating the chlorophyll content present in a plant leaf. This is typically accomplished using a handheld meter.

DAT is an acronym for days after treatment. This term is used in agronomy when keeping record of herbicide, fertilizer and pesticide treatments.

The Normalized Difference Vegetative Index is calculated using the visible and near-infrared light reflected by vegetation.

A controlled release fertilizer contains plant nutrients in a form that is not immediately available to the plant. A CRF provides the plant with nutrients for a longer period of time, throughout the growing season.

A topdressing refers to the process used to distribute fertilizer or manure to the surface layer of soil surrounding a crop.