Get the basics right to protect your crop after the harvest

With Grain SA estimating input costs for dryland maize at up to R22 000/ha and up to R16 000/ha for soya beans, no one can afford losing even a fraction of their precious crop between the combine harvester and the silo. Jeanne van der Merwe spoke to knowledgeable industry experts to determine how farmers can ensure maximum returns on their investment.

- Jeanne van der Merwe

The risks associated with grain production are immense, and they don't stop once a crop has survived potential drought, flooding or pests to reach maturity.

"In several African countries, post-harvest losses are estimated at between 20% and 40%, representing a substantial loss of value and nutritional resources," says Dr Charl van der Merwe, CEO of Agbiz Grain.

"Across all grains and oilseeds, insect damage and mould development are the most common causes of these losses. Moisture plays a central role – high grain moisture, combined with elevated temperatures, creates ideal conditions for fungal growth and insect infestation".

REGULAR INSPECTION OF AERATION SYSTEMS, FANS AND VENTS, AND EFFECTIVE FUMIGATION IS VERY IMPORTANT

Mechanical damage, kernel breakage, inadequate aeration, and insufficient drying also contribute to losses.

"Low moisture content can contribute to post-harvest losses during handling and storage due to increased breakage. For soya beans, harvesting at excessively low moisture increases the risk of splitting and cracking, contributing significantly to post-harvest losses," he says.

Losses can be prevented by taking proactive steps, implementing preventative measures and the effective use of equipment.

BE PREPARED

Insect infestations begin in dirty storage areas, warns Johan Stephens, owner of pest control consultancy Goggakil.

"Preseason preparation is the most important way to prevent losses. Any on-farm silos or trailers used to transport grain should be cleaned thoroughly and sprayed with an approved cleaning product.

"Many on-farm steel silos have perforated floors so the grain can be aerated from below. These must be opened up and cleaned out thoroughly as grain dust can accumulate."