As South Dakota corn producers settle in for winter and the “farmer’s hot stove” discussions for next year begin, it’s still important to think about last year’s production that’s currently in storage. Make sure to check corn at least monthly during the cold weather. Storage issues seem like a minor matter in a year when corn came out of the field at ideal moisture levels that are only dreamed of during most harvests.

However, it is critical to not relax when it comes to checking those bins! If a producer loses one percent of 10,000 bushels due to molding or insect damage, at $5.00 per bushel it would result in a loss of $ 500.00 or more worth of grain. So it is critical to keep the grain mass out of the danger zone. That zone occurs when internal bin temperatures are between 70 to 90 degrees. The heat and moisture promote and encourage insect activity and molding.

The cooler the bin environment is the less chance that these problems will occur. The expected grain storage time is approximately doubled for each ten degrees that the grain is cooled.

In addition, regular monitoring of stored corn can help avoid unnecessary losses and help maximize the potential for profit.\

Corn must be stored at 14% moisture if the storage period will not be more than 6 months. If that period is longer than 6 months the moisture levels needs to be 13%. Make sure that grain temperatures are below 49 degrees at several locations in the bin. Exam the bin for crusting, molding, or condensation on the roof. Probe at various depths throughout the grain mass. Take these samples indoors to warm up and observe for any insect activity on white paper. If there are any signs, it is critical to get control of the situation immediately.

Remember most winter problems can be corrected by cooling the grain. Aeration should be used to cool the grain whenever outdoor temperatures are cooler than the grain. The grain mass should be cooled to a temperature within 10 to 15 degrees of the average winter temperatures or between 20 to 30 degrees during most South Dakota winters. Fumigation is not recommended in grain masses that are colder than 60 degrees.

More information on corn storage in South Dakota can be found in Best Management Practices for Corn Production in South Dakota.

This article was written with contributions from SDSU Extension Field Specialists Connie Strunk and Jack Davis.