FAITH NDOU
Chiredzi – Proper storage of harvested crops has been identified as a critical step in reducing post-harvest losses, with farmers urged to prioritise clean, dry and pest-free conditions to maintain grain quality.
Speaking to The Midweek Watch, Chiredzi District AGRITEX Officer Tongai Bodi said poor storage practices continue to expose farmers to significant losses through moisture, pests and contamination.
“Crops should be stored in clean, dry and pest-proof containers to maintain their quality and condition. Farmers must avoid damp or contaminated storage areas,” said Bodi.
He added that cereals must be properly dried to a safe moisture content of between 12–15 percent before storage to prevent spoilage and aflatoxin development.
Bodi also highlighted the importance of proper threshing, noting that it should be done carefully on clean surfaces to reduce grain damage and contamination.
To further protect stored produce, he encouraged farmers to use both traditional and chemical methods to control pests including the use of grain protectants in granaries.
He also stressed the need for sorting and grading crops before storage.
“Farmers should remove damaged or contaminated grains and separate produce according to quality and colour to maintain standards,” he said.
Bodi further advised farmers to ensure proper ventilation in storage facilities to prevent moisture build-up which can lead to spoilage.
