Grain to be held in long-term storage should be clean, intact, and dry. Grain that is contaminated with foreign material or with broken kernels is susceptible to attack by fungi, insects, and mites. Ideal grain moisture content is 13.5%. Higher grain moisture content is acceptable if low temperatures are used to dry. If grain is stored for a long time, grain may need to be drier (12%).
Grain bins and all equipment that comes in contact with newly harvested material should be clean and free of residual material. Grain may be stored in bins that have been treated with insecticide, but the grain itself cannot be directly treated. Grain should be stored in a wellventilated area, under a water-tight roof, and be proofed against birds and rodents. Shatter-proof light covers and shatter-resistant bulb should be used. Grain also needs to be protected against growth of insect, mites, and fungal populations.
NOTE: Material in this chapter related to pesticides may not be valid after 2024. Please contact a county Extension office or visit the Agronomic Crops Network website at agcrops.osu.edu for current information.