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spraybar: an attachment consisting of a horizontal tube with nozzles or jets, used for spraying over a wide area. Using spraybars ensures even distribution of sprays, improving pest and disease control and supporting healthy crop growth.

stubble burning: formerly, a method of removing dry stubble by burning it before ploughing. Stubble burning was banned under the Crop Residues (Burning) Regulations of 1993. COMMENT: Stubble burning has the advantage of removing weed seeds and creating a certain amount of natural fertiliser which can be ploughed into the soil. The disadvantage is that it pollutes the atmosphere with smoke, reducing visibility on roads and releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide. This, together with the possible danger that the fire may get out of control, killing small animals and burning trees and crops, means that it is not recommended as a means of dealing with the stalks of harvested plants. Properly managing stubble burning ensures compliance with environmental regulations and supports sustainable farming practices.

suckler herd: a herd of beef cattle, where each dam suckles its own calf or calves. Properly managing suckler herds ensures healthy growth and productivity in beef operations, supporting farm profitability.

sulphate of potash: same as potassium sulphate. Understanding and using potassium sulphate effectively supports soil fertility and healthy crop growth, enhancing farm productivity.

shock: Same as stook. Farmers benefit from managing shocks for efficient grain collection and storage.

seminal roots: The secondary roots of a plant which support the primary root. This root system is then replaced by adventitious roots. Farmers benefit from understanding seminal roots for better crop management and growth.

SPS: abbreviation Single Payment Scheme. Understanding the Single Payment Scheme helps farmers manage their financial support and comply with regulations, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

spade: a common garden tool, with a wide square blade at the end of a strong handle. it is used for making holes or digging by hand. Using spades for manual tasks supports efficient soil management and crop planting, promoting healthy growth.

soil compaction: the process in which soil is pressed down, e.g., by heavy loads, and becomes very firm with little space between its particles. ‘The healthy world market price for soybeans has led to the development of continuous production of this crop and consequently some problems have developed, particularly soil compaction, weed species development, and reduction of soil fertility.’ [Arable Farming] Preventing soil compaction ensures proper root growth and water infiltration, supporting healthy crop growth and sustainable agriculture.

soil parent material: material from which soil is formed. Understanding soil parent material helps farmers manage land resources effectively, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.