The storage management measures you take after harvesting your crop are critical for keeping your grain in good condition. That’s why it’s important to investigate both your equipment and the bin site when it comes to pre-harvest storage prep.
As for equipment, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln recommends cleaning combines, tractors and semis to ensure they are harvest-ready. Completely remove all traces of old grain and properly sanitize equipment to avoid contaminating new grain. Even a small amount of tainted grain can be harmful.
You should also examine bins and their foundations as well as the roofing for structural problems, leaks, rust or cracks. Damage may lead to grain spills, water leaking into your bins or air escaping and entering. Repairing any problems now can reduce your risk of future damage. In addition to thoroughly cleaning your bins, consider using an insecticide if you plan to store your grain into May or after.
When it comes to drying your grain, use methods such as batch-in-bin drying to reduce risk of developing molds such as aflatoxin. This method includes drying grain daily, cooling it, and then moving it to another bin before the next batch comes in. Doing so will keep grain dry and at a good temperature. Aflatoxins can develop within 24 hours in mold- or fungi-infected corn, and Iowa State University warns that toxin production usually stops when temperatures are below approximately 50° and the moisture level is about 15%.
To help avoid molds like aflatoxin, choose Golden Harvest hybrids with the Agrisure Viptera® trait. In research conducted1, Agrisure Viptera has demonstrated the ability to significantly reduce development of molds and mycotoxins, including aflatoxin.
Contact your Golden Harvest Seed Advisor with questions or for additional agronomic insights..
1Dr. Roy Parker, Texas A&M University, 2009-2010. Influence of insect trait on grain aflatoxin levels.
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