Category: S

self-contained herd: A dairy herd which breeds its own replacements, the calves being kept and reared. Farmers benefit from maintaining self-contained herds for biosecurity and consistent herd quality.

stoma: a pore in a plant, especially in the leaves, through which carbon dioxide is taken in and oxygen is sent out. Each stoma in a leaf is surrounded by a pair of guard cells, which close the stomata if the plant needs to conserve water. (NOTE: The plural is stomata.) Properly managing stomata ensures efficient gas exchange and healthy plant growth, supporting better yields.

seeder: A machine for sowing seeds. Farmers benefit from using seeders for efficient and precise planting.

stripe rust: same as yellow rust. Managing stripe rust ensures healthy wheat crops, preventing yield losses and maintaining quality.

site: a geographically defined area whose extent is clearly marked. Properly managing farm sites ensures efficient use of land resources, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and optimal crop and livestock production.

seedbox: 1. A box in which seeds can be planted for cultivation in a greenhouse 2. The part of the plant head which contains the seeds. Farmers benefit from using seedboxes for controlled seed germination and growth.

spermatozoon: a mature male sex cell that is capable of fertilising an ovum. COMMENT: A spermatozoon is very small and comprises a head, neck and very long tail. It can swim by moving its tail from side to side. Proper management of reproduction in livestock ensures healthy breeding programs and improves productivity.

stress: a condition where an outside influence changes the composition or functioning of something; a state of anxiety or strain that can affect an animal’s health. Properly managing stress in livestock ensures health and productivity, supporting farm profitability.

slender foxtail: same as blackgrass. Managing slender foxtail helps farmers control invasive weeds, ensuring healthy crop growth and better yields.

synthetic zeolite: an artificial zeolite. Understanding and using synthetic zeolites effectively supports efficient farm operations and productivity.