Progressive young farmer Ranzodh Singh explained that the moisture present in the air during the rainy season acts as the biggest enemy for stored grains. When humidity levels rise, tiny pests such as weevils and grubs begin to breed inside wheat stocks. These insects hollow out the grains from the inside, ruining their quality. Therefore, making proper arrangements for the care and protection of wheat well before the onset of the monsoon becomes extremely crucial.
Choosing the right container or drum is vital for keeping wheat safe over a long period. Grains should always be stored exclusively in completely dry and airtight drums or bins. If even a small amount of air or moisture enters the drum, pests will multiply rapidly. Always ensure that the lid of the storage container is tightly closed so that external humidity cannot reach the interior.
Using dried neem leaves is a highly effective and natural method to protect grains from pests. First, dry the neem leaves thoroughly in the sunlight. Afterwards, tie them inside a thin cotton cloth to make small pouches. Place these pouches at different layers amidst the wheat. The distinct odor of neem keeps insects away from the grains.
Matchsticks also prove to be quite helpful in saving wheat from weevils and grubs. The chemical head of a matchstick contains phosphorus and sulfur, the scent of which drives pests away. Wrapping a few matchsticks in a cloth and placing them inside the wheat drum is a very simple, economical, and domestic way to keep insects at bay.
If the infestation of pests in the wheat has increased significantly, chemical measures become necessary. For this purpose, aluminum phosphide tablets can be used. However, it must be kept in mind that these tablets should always be used under the guidance of an agricultural expert. Because they are highly toxic, following all safety rules during their application is mandatory.
The location where the grain drum is kept also matters a great deal. Never place the storage drum directly on a bare floor or the ground. Additionally, keep the drum at a slight distance from any damp or moisture-prone walls. Ground dampness can easily seep up to the inside of the drum. Elevating the drum slightly by placing a wooden plank or bricks underneath it prevents this issue.
Drying the wheat thoroughly under intense sunlight before filling it into the drum is absolutely essential. If even a slight amount of moisture remains trapped inside the grains, the probability of weevil infestation multiplies manifold. Fill the wheat into the drum only after drying it in harsh sunlight for two to three days and letting it cool down completely; never store hot wheat.
Conducting periodic checks on your stored wheat is a very important habit to maintain. Open the drum once or twice a month to inspect whether any moisture or pests are beginning to appear. If insects are detected in the initial stages, the grain can be easily saved by spreading it out in the sunlight. A little vigilance goes a long way in preventing your grains from spoiling.
