AT this busy time of year for grain growers, the prioritisation of hygiene around seed grain and storage infrastructure is encouraged.
Grains Research & Development Corporation (GRDC) grain storage extension specialist Ben White recommends cleaning any spills or tailings from the seed cleaner to minimise the potential for damage caused by mice and insects.
“Grain spills around sheds and silos at this time of year can supply a feed source for vermin and insect pests,” Mr White said.
“So, promptly cleaning up silo and auger hoppers, seed cleaning tailings and any grain spills eliminates a potential food source.”
Growers interstate suffered damage to stored seed last year due to significant mouse numbers, and collateral damage included chewed electrical wiring on machinery – impacting preparation for seeding programs.
Temporary storage, including grain storage bags and sheds, should be monitored by growers with increasing vigilance.
Mr White said four months is typically the safe storage time limit for grain stored in bags, with longer storage periods increasing the likelihood of pest damage.
Mice and birds are attracted to split grain, foxes chase the mice and subsequently leave holes in bags where water can seep in and damage the grain.
“Cleaning up, baiting, and fencing have proven to reduce problems for many growers,” Mr White said.
“Prioritising outturn of grain in short-term storage options will minimise the potential for damage to the stored grain.”
Mr White encouraged growers to do a pre-seeding check of seed and stored grain in silos, sheds and bags to inspect for insect and vermin outbreaks.
“Get grain storage hygiene in order and look for signs of vermin activity, baiting early as needed,” he said.
“Sample and sieve to find grain storage insect pests and look for evidence of activity. A germination test heading into seeding is also recommended so seeding rates can be adjusted accordingly.”
Increased vigilance, better hygiene and early intervention can minimise numbers and the impact of vermin and insects on seed quality and market-bound grain in storage.
For more information, refer to the GRDC stored grain hygiene and structural treatments website.
