In these uncertain times, farmers with grain still in the bin may be considering storing that grain a bit longer than they’d originally expected. If you are in that situation, there are a few steps to take which will help you store your grain long-term in good condition.
ENSURE GRAIN IS DRY
When it comes to storage, keep grain cool and dry to prevent spoilage. Diseases, moulds and insects thrive in warm and wet conditions. For long term storage (longer than 6 months), dry the grain an additional 1-2 points below “normal” storage moisture, to provide additional protection against spoilage.
If grain is slightly wetter than desired, an aeration fan can be used effectively for small amounts of drying. A commercial grain dryer may not be practical or efficient to remove a small amount of moisture. Drying depends on the outdoor air conditions. Using the Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC) chart for the correct grain (see table 2 for Corn), look up the outdoor temperature and humidity, and find the corresponding grain moisture level. You can also use BINcast, which is an online tool.
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