October 24, 2023
In the world of farming, the work isn't done when the crops are harvested. Storing that harvest properly is just as important as growing it. If crops are not stored well, they can go bad quickly, which means less money for farmers.
But when your crops are stored efficiently, they last longer and stay in better condition. This means you can sell them when the time is right and get the best price. But what are the best ways to store your harvest? And how can you make sure you're doing everything to keep your crops safe?
Let’s go through some key practices that can help you maximise your storage efficiency, save money, and reduce waste.
Time is of the essence when it comes to harvesting crops. The quicker you can get your fruits, vegetables, or grains from the field to storage, the better. Why? Because the longer they sit around, the more likely they are to start going bad.
Here are some things you can do to get your crops from the field to storage faster:
You also need to be careful when handling your harvest. Be gentle and handle your crops with care to avoid bruising or damaging them. Sorting, grading, and packaging are also important steps in harvest handling. By sorting your crops by size and quality, you can make sure they're stored properly and sent to the right places.
Now that you've harvested your crops, it's time to think about where to put them. Different crops need different types of storage. It's like picking the right house for a family - you need to make sure it's the right size and has everything they need.
For example, if you're storing grains like corn or wheat, you might use grain bins. These tall, round structures are good at keeping grain safe from the weather. These bins are usually made of steel and come in various sizes, making them a versatile option for different crops and storage needs.
So, how do you choose the right storage? Well, it depends on how much you have and how long you need to store it. If you have large quantities of grain, larger-sized bulk feed bins or grain bins work well for this. These are often equipped with a convenient slide gate mechanism for easy access. This feature allows for a hassle-free bucket or cart filling with a simple open/close operation.
Managing your inventory well is key to running a successful agribusiness. It helps you keep track of how much product you have, its quality, and where it's stored. Proper inventory management can also help you predict how much your customers will need, adjust your storage plans accordingly, and cut down on waste.
So, how can you effectively manage your inventory? First, it's important to regularly check how much stock you have and in what condition it is. This means looking at your stored crops and noting their quality and storage conditions.
Apart from that, consider implementing FIFO. The first-in, first-out (FIFO) method is a smart way to manage your stock. This approach means that the first products stored are the first ones sold. This helps keep your inventory fresh and reduces the chance of having to throw away products that go bad.
Reducing losses and waste in agribusiness isn't just about saving money—it's also about making the most of your hard work throughout the season. A lot of produce can be lost after harvest due to several reasons, and understanding these can help you better protect your crops.
One of the biggest culprits for post-harvest loss is pests and diseases. If not managed properly, these can quickly damage large quantities of stored produce. Another common issue is improper handling during and after the harvest, which can spoil the crops.
Several effective strategies can be implemented to prevent these problems. Cooling your produce immediately after harvesting, known as pre-cooling, is a great way to extend its freshness. And don’t forget to keep your storage areas clean, as it helps prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Keeping your harvest safe and in top condition is key to running a successful agribusiness. By using the right storage techniques and staying vigilant, you can cut down on losses and make the most out of every crop. Remember, the better you store your produce, the more you can benefit from your hard work.
