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seed: A plant’s unit of reproduction, capable of developing into another plant. High-quality seed selection is crucial for successful crop production.

soil sterilant: something used to remove microorganisms from soil, e.g., a chemical or steam. Using soil sterilants helps farmers manage pests and diseases, ensuring healthy crop growth and better yields.

solar farming: The use of solar energy to power agricultural operations. Solar farming reduces energy costs and supports sustainable farming practices.

springtail: a primitive wingless insect very common in soils, where they may do damage to fine roots. Managing springtail populations protects crops from damage, ensuring healthy growth and better yields.

stubble cleaning: working the stubble after harvest, using ploughs, cultivators, and harrows to free the weeds from the soil. Properly managing stubble cleaning ensures efficient soil preparation and weed control, supporting healthy crop growth and better yields.

superovulation: the process in animal production of injecting hormones to increase the number of eggs released by the ovaries. Properly managing superovulation ensures efficient breeding programs and improves livestock productivity, supporting farm profitability.

syphoning: moving a liquid from one container to another using a pipe which is filled with liquid, with the open ends of the pipe below the level of the liquid in the original container. Properly managing syphoning ensures efficient liquid transfer and farm operations.

savoy: A type of winter cabbage with crinkly leaves. Farmers benefit from growing savoy cabbage as it is hardy and can be harvested in cold weather, providing a valuable winter crop.

shavings: Thin curled pieces of wood removed when planing, used as litter for animals. Farmers benefit from using shavings for livestock bedding and soil improvement.

Scottish Natural Heritage: An official body responsible for the conservation of fauna and flora in Scotland. Farmers benefit from engaging with Scottish Natural Heritage to ensure sustainable farming practices and biodiversity conservation.