Many farmers loose large volumes of maize due to poor post harvest practices ensuring proper maize post practices increase yields and lowers post harvest losses.
Well dried maize grains are very hard and produce a loud ringing sound when poured and do not stick in hand when pressed. However maize can be harvested when still green if the silk turns brown and if harvested dry when leaves and husks are completely dry.
Practices
Harvest early when the black layer forms between the kernel and comb to minimize pest infestation.
Manually de husk and shell combs with machine to avoid breaking the grains.
Dry grains and protect from rain to loose water and avoid fungal attack respectively.
Always store grains in bands or sacks and saw to avoid rooting of the grains.
Store maize in clean dry area and apply protective chemicals.
Stack maize bags on wooden pellets to avoid development of moulds.
Spray with Ak tellic chemicals to avoid insect attack.
