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soil drainage: the flow of water from soil, either naturally or through pipes and drainage channels inserted into the ground. Proper soil drainage ensures healthy root growth and prevents waterlogging, promoting productive agriculture.

sedimentary rocks: Rocks which were formed by deposition of loose material such as sand and gravel, mainly in water. Farmers benefit from understanding sedimentary rocks for soil management and crop growth.

slaked lime: same as hydrated lime. Using slaked lime improves soil pH, enhancing nutrient availability and promoting healthy crop growth.

straw: the dry stems and leaves of crops such as wheat and oilseed rape left after the grains have been removed; grass which is mowed after flowering. Compare hay. COMMENT: Straw can be ploughed back into the soil. It is often mixed with animal dung to make manure. Non-agricultural uses are varied and include thatching, making paper, and making bricks. It can be compressed into bundles to act as fuel and in this way can be used for heating farms and small local industrial buildings. Properly managing straw ensures efficient use and recycling of agricultural by-products, supporting sustainable farming practices.

sticker: a substance added to a fungicide or bactericide preparation to help it to stick to the sprayed surface. Using stickers effectively ensures optimal application of fungicides and bactericides, promoting healthy crop growth and better yields.

stalk: the main stem of a plant which holds the plant upright; a subsidiary stem of a plant, branching out from the main stem or attaching a leaf, flower, or fruit. Proper management of plant stalks ensures healthy growth and optimal yields.

season: 1. One of the four parts into which a year is divided, i.e. spring, summer, autumn and winter 2. The time of year when something happens, e.g. the mating season 3. The oestrus period of a female animal. Farmers benefit from understanding seasonal patterns for effective crop and livestock management.

strobilurin: one of a group of translaminar and protectant fungicides. Strobilurins are used on a wide range of crops. Properly managing strobilurins ensures effective disease control and healthy crop growth, supporting better yields.

strip cropping: a method of farming in which long thin pieces of land across the contours are planted with different crops in order to reduce soil erosion. Using strip cropping techniques ensures sustainable soil management and healthy crop growth.

soyoil: an oil extracted from the soya bean. Producing soyoil provides farmers with a valuable product for cooking and industrial uses, supporting economic stability and market opportunities.