Depending on market trends, weather conditions, and seasonal yields, it may be wise to store your grain for a year or more. However, you can’t simply fill up the grain bins and forget about the product until the time comes to sell it. To ensure it can withstand the wait and maintain its quality while in storage, you’ll have to take certain steps. If you want to store your yield for a long period of time, here are a few tips for getting started. 

3 Tips for Lengthy Grain Storage

1. Prepare the Bins Properly

Clean your grain bins thoroughly before adding any product that will need to be stored for a long while. This includes removing all leftover grain from past harvests, installing a temperature-monitoring system, and checking for insects. If you do notice any pests, arrange for fumigation at least five weeks before adding the latest yield to the bin. 

2. Dry the Grain 

If the product’s moisture content is too high, mold will inevitably grow during storage. Generally speaking, corn should be no more than 13% water prior to long-term storage, while soybeans should be dried to 11% and wheat should reach 12.5%. When it finally comes time to sell, keep in mind that drying it out before storage will have reduced its weight. 

3. Monitor the Entire System

After you’ve filled the grain bins, make sure to monitor the grain closely for the total duration of storage. Check it at least once every two weeks and once a week if possible. Track the temperature—keeping it at around 40 degrees will deter mold and pests—and level off any peaks that develop to facilitate airflow.

If you need to erect more grain bins on your property to handle long-term storage needs, turn to Merritt Mechanical-Fabrication in Cairo, GA. For more than half a century, this family-owned business has been serving farmers throughout the southeastern United States. A trusted provider of agricultural design and construction services, they can assist with everything from conveyors and drying sheds to grain elevators and metal buildings. To see some of their past work, visit their website. Call (229) 377-5586 to discuss your needs.