Skip to content
Insect Control

Fumigation timing for stored grain

When is the best time to fumigate stored grain? Ben White and Chris Warrick from GRDC’s Grain Storage team discuss three common fumigation timing strategies: pre-emptive fumigation after harvest, fumigation on insect detection, and calendar-based fumigation. Learn why gas-tight, pressure-tested silos are essential, how aeration cooling can improve storage outcomes, and how to balance fumigation timing with grain quality, market requirements, and buyer specifications.

Read More »
10/07/2026 No Comments
Insect Control

The fumigation process in grain storages

Successful grain storage requires an essential grain fumigation process to achieve effective insect control and help prevent phosphine resistance in stored grain. Ben White and Chris Warrick from GRDC’s Grain Storage team explain best-practice phosphine fumigation, including the importance of gas-tight, pressure-tested silos, correct phosphine dosage calculations, exposure periods, residue management, ventilation requirements, and withholding periods. Whether you’re managing wheat storage, grain silos, or on-farm grain storage facilities, this practical guide provides valuable advice for successful grain fumigation, stored grain pest management, and maintaining grain quality.

Read More »
10/07/2026 No Comments
Information Hub

When to fumigate stored grain

This article outlines best practice for determining when to fumigate stored grain, highlighting the importance of cooling, monitoring, and gas-tight storage. It explains the risks of fumigating too early, relying on calendar-based treatments, and poor sealing, while reinforcing that effective fumigation depends on correct timing, temperature, and exposure periods.

Read More »
02/04/2026 No Comments
Grain Storage Facilities

Bunker Storage – Information Resources

The stored grain extension team have put together some key resources on setting up and storing grain in bunkers. Rather than re-invent the wheel, useful information resources from commercial suppliers of bunker tarps and equipment has been included.

Read More »
28/10/2025 No Comments
Information Hub

RESPIRATORS AND FILTERS FOR PHOSPHINE FUMIGATIONS

Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for health and safety when fumigating with phosphine.
The phosphine label mandates the use of a full-face respirator with a combination particulate (P1) and phosphine gas cartridge filter along with elbow-length rubber gloves to comply with label requirements.

Read More »
28/10/2025 No Comments
Information Hub

Fumigant resistance: small victories in an unrelenting battle

As insect resistance to phosphine continues to climb across both on-farm and bulk storage, growers face a constant challenge: how to slow resistance while protecting grain quality and market access. Recent GRDC-supported resistance monitoring shows a slight dip in strong phosphine resistance this year, but the overall national trend remains upward, with about 30 per cent of pests now showing strong resistance—well above the 10–15 per cent level considered manageable.

Read More »
09/09/2025 No Comments
Information Hub

Phosphine Best Management Practices: Disinfesting stored commodities

Phosphine remains the most widely used fumigant in Australia’s grain industry due to its effectiveness, low cost, and residue-free status. However, increasing resistance among key insect pests highlights the need for strict adherence to best practice guidelines.

This comprehensive manual outlines:
1. Proper application methods across different storage types (silos, bunkers, sheds)
2. Critical factors such as gas concentration, exposure time, temperature, and moisture
3. Equipment for monitoring gas levels and ensuring safe fumigant handling
4. Strategies to delay and manage resistance, including use of sulfuryl fluoride and integrated pest management

Compiled by leading experts including Dr Manoj Nayak, Dr Joanne Holloway, Chris Warrick, and Patrick Wilson, this document is a valuable resource for growers, storage operators, and advisors working to maintain grain quality and market access.

Read More »
07/06/2025 No Comments
Insect Control

Fumigation Recirculation

During this video, Chris Warrick and Alex Conway discuss ‘Fumigation recirculation’ and provide guidance on both passive and powered systems.

Read More »
31/01/2025 No Comments
Insect Control

Fumigating and Venting Grain Bags

During this video, Chris Warrick and Alex Conway discuss ‘Fumigating and venting grain bags’, providing information and advice on the venting process. This includes the timelines required for this practice.

Read More »
31/01/2025 No Comments

Information Hub