Category: S

spray: a mass of tiny drops of liquid; special liquid for spraying onto a plant to prevent insect infestation or disease; to send out a liquid in a mass of tiny drops; to send out a special liquid onto a plant to prevent insect infestation or disease. Using sprays effectively helps farmers manage pests and diseases, ensuring healthy crop growth and better yields.

sucrose: a sugar that is abundant in many plants, which consists of one molecule of glucose joined to one of fructose. Understanding sucrose content in crops supports nutritional value and marketability, enhancing farm profitability.

soil pH: A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil. Managing soil pH ensures optimal nutrient availability for crops.

stockman: a farm worker who looks after animals, especially cattle. (NOTE: Animal welfare codes lay down rules about how well-trained stockmen should be in order to ensure the good health and welfare of the animals or birds in their care.) Properly training and managing stockmen ensures livestock health and productivity, supporting farm profitability and ethical farming practices.

spike: a tall pointed flower head (inflorescence) in which small flowers without stalks grow from a central flower stem; a pointed end of a pole or piece of metal. Understanding the structure of spikes helps farmers manage plant growth and optimize yields.

suckle: to feed with milk from the udder. Properly managing suckling ensures optimal nutrition and health for young livestock, supporting productivity and well-being.

soft rot: a bacterium, Erwinia carotovora, which affects stored potatoes and carrots. The cell walls dissolve causing the vegetables to become mushy, slimy, and foul-smelling. Managing soft rot ensures healthy storage of root crops, preventing losses and maintaining quality.

seed coat: Same as testa. Farmers benefit from understanding seed coats for better seed handling and storage.

sweet corn: a type of maize in which the grains contain a large amount of sugar rather than starch. It is grown for human consumption. Also called corn on the cob. Properly managing sweet corn crops ensures healthy growth and high yields, supporting farm productivity and profitability.

sappy: Referring to tree trunks or branches, or wood, that are full of sap. Farmers benefit from recognizing sappy wood for identifying tree health and suitability for various uses.