S

sub-: less important than; lower than. Understanding the use of the prefix “sub-” helps farmers accurately describe and manage various agricultural practices and resources.

strippings: the last drops of milk from a cow’s teats at the end of milking session. Properly managing strippings ensures milk hygiene and quality, supporting dairy productivity and consumer health.

saddle: A supportive structure for a rider or load on the back of an animal, typically a horse. Proper saddle use ensures the comfort and safety of both rider and animal.

SOM: abbreviation soil organic matter. Maintaining soil organic matter enhances soil fertility and structure, promoting healthy crop growth and sustainable agriculture.

sieve: A garden implement with a base made of mesh or with perforations through which fine particles can pass while coarse material is retained. Compare riddle. To pass soil, etc. through a sieve to produce a fine tilth, or to remove the soil from root crops such as potatoes. Farmers benefit from using sieves for soil preparation and crop cleaning.

stubble: the short stems left in the ground after a crop such as wheat or oilseed rape has been cut. Properly managing stubble ensures efficient soil preparation and recycling of crop residues, supporting productive agriculture.

sp.: abbreviation species (NOTE: The plural, for several species, is spp.). Understanding species classifications helps farmers manage biodiversity and select appropriate crops and livestock for their specific conditions.

South Devon: the heaviest breed of British cattle, with a light brownish-red colour. It was originally a dual-purpose breed, but now is mainly raised for beef. Raising South Devon cattle provides farmers with a robust breed for beef production, supporting farm profitability.

spikelet: part of the flower head of plants such as grass, attached to the main stem without a stalk. Properly managing spikelets ensures healthy growth and optimal yields of grass crops.

Sporozoa: a type of parasitic Protozoa which includes Plasmodium, the cause of malaria. Understanding Sporozoa helps farmers manage livestock health and prevent disease outbreaks, supporting productivity and well-being.