Dry and store maize so buyers pay more

Buyers and processors pay by grade. Grain that is too wet, mouldy or mixed with stones and dust is paid less or refused.

Dry it well

• Dry the cobs or grain on a tarpaulin or a raised rack, never on bare ground.
• Turn it often and cover it at night and when it rains.
• Grain is dry enough to store when it breaks with a clean snap. Ask your agent or buyer to check it with a moisture meter before you sell.

Keep it clean

• Sort out broken, rotten and discoloured grain.
• Winnow to remove dust, chaff and stones.

Store it safely

• Use clean bags on pallets, off the floor and away from the walls.
• Hermetic (airtight) bags protect grain from weevils without chemicals.
• Check the store every week for insects, rats and damp.

Sell with confidence

Check the indicative prices on DigiFarmer before you agree a price, and confirm the current price with the buyer.