HOW TO REDUCE POST-HARVEST LOSSES IN YOUR MAIZE AND BEANS

HOW TO REDUCE POST-HARVEST LOSSES IN YOUR MAIZE AND BEANS

Most farmers in our region have harvested or are in the process of harvesting good yields of maize (and beans) this season, in some places record-breaking yields. We know it's a busy time.

Now that your harvests are here, you should know how to prevent post-harvest losses so that all your hard work pays off and you get a good return on your investment (time, money and effort).

Let's get started:

STEP 1: HARVEST ON TIME

Harvest your maize when it is ready. Place it on a clean surface such as a black tarpaulin to sun-dry for 3-5 days. If you are experiencing rainy weather you could air dry your maize.

STEP 2: CHECK DRYNESS

Check that your maize is fully dry by biting a grain or using a grain moisture meter.

STEP 3: SHELL YOUR MAIZE

Shell, clean and sort your maize. You can shell it by hand or using a thresher. Remove any damaged grain or foreign objects before you bag and store it.

STEP 4: BAG AND STORE YOUR MAIZE

Place your well dried maize into hermetic storage bags such as the Purdue Improved Cowpea Storage bags (PICS storage bags). These airtight bags protect your maize, beans, sorghum, millet and other cereals from insects, rodents, moisture and fungal contaminants without using any chemicals (pesticide dust). This makes them cost-competitive to regular bags. They are also reusable and can be used again next harvest season. Another good option for storing your maize is a grain silo.

These solutions are not only important for us farmers, but also for traders looking to store their maize for extended periods of time to sell later when market prices are higher.

STEP 5: CHECK MARKET PRICES

Check the Agriculture Marketing website or Weekly Bulletins for current market prices. Get and stay informed about market prices and sell your maize at the right price.