Don’t wait until harvest to think about grain storage. The more preparation you do now, the better the outcome.
In this episode of the GRDC podcast, Chris Warrick from the Stored Grain Extension Team shares the most important steps growers can take to protect grain quality and reduce storage risks:
Safety first – check silos, sheds, and equipment are structurally sound and safe to operate; ensure PPE is in place for grain storage tasks.
High-impact hygiene – clean up storages, equipment, feeders, and any leftover grain across the whole farm before the weather warms up. Dispose of waste grain properly to avoid creating insect breeding grounds.
Structural treatments – apply diatomaceous earth well in advance. A leaf blower with venturi can be an efficient way to distribute it.
Aeration cooling – underutilised in Australia, but highly effective. Consider retrofitting fans and ducting before filling silos to reduce insect risk, manage moisture, and maintain grain quality.
Maintenance check – inspect lids, seals, wiring, oil valves, and lighting before harvest. Pressure test silos while empty.
Integrated pest management – combine hygiene, structural treatments, aeration, protectants (if market-approved), and regular monitoring.
Protectants – use before insect infestation. Rotate spinosad or deltamethrin with chlorpyrifos-methyl or fenitrothion where appropriate for cereal grains.
Grain quality focus – keep grain cool to maintain germination, colour, and reduce pest activity. Aeration can even help improve falling numbers in some wheat.
Listen to the podcast here: GRDC Podcast – Pre-harvest prep: Protecting stored grain
For advice, call 1800 WEEVIL to connect with your local grain storage specialist.