How can post harvest losses be controlled?
The first step involves adequately drying the grain: the drier the grain, the more difficult it is for storage pests to attack. Next, grain should be stored in a clean and dry place, preferably in a sealed container such as a metal silo. As grain is filled into the storage container and placed in the storage area, it is important to ensure that it contains no infested grain such as that from the previous season’s harvest. Where available, insecticides (Actellic Super or Malpa dust, or phostoxin) should be applied. Only insecticides that come in the original package of the supplier should be used, while carefully following the instructions. Some farmers use botanicals or ash but these are not as effective as insecticides.
