Properly managing stored grain is essential to maintaining its quality and preventing insect infestations. Below are some strategies for controlling insects in organic grain storage, focusing on beneficial insects, biological sprays, and preventive measures. Just a reminder always, always check with your certifier about using these practices in your OSP and before making grain applications!
Table of Contents (just click on one)
- Organic Grain Storage Preventive Measures
- Predator Insects for Grain Storage
- Biological Treatments of Stored Grain Insects
- Using Pheromone Traps for Organic Grain Storage Pest Control
- Other Resources
Organic Grain Storage Preventive Measures
Clean Storage Areas: Thoroughly clean and disinfect storage areas before storing new grain. Remove any residual grain, debris, and dust, as these can harbor pests.
Proper Drying: Ensure that grain is properly dried to a moisture content below 14%. High moisture levels can promote mold growth and attract insects.
Sealed Containers: Store grain in airtight containers or silos to prevent insect entry. Use insect-proof storage bags or bins for smaller quantities.
Regular Monitoring: Inspect stored grain regularly for signs of infestation. Use pheromone traps to monitor pest activity and take action if necessary.
Temperature Control: Keep storage areas cool, as high temperatures can encourage insect activity. Aerate grain periodically to maintain uniform temperature and moisture levels.
Predator Insects for Grain Storage
Predatory insects are an innovative and sustainable solution for managing pests in stored grain. These beneficial insects naturally prey on grain pests, helping to keep their populations in check without the need for chemical treatments. To implement the use of predatory insects, it’s crucial to monitor pest populations and introduce the predators at the right time. Maintaining optimal storage conditions, such as proper temperature and humidity, will also enhance the effectiveness of these biological controls.
Predatory Mites (Acarina: Phytoseiidae): These mites’ prey on grain mites and small insect pests, effectively reducing pest populations in stored grain.
Parasitoid Wasps (e.g., Trichogramma spp.): These wasps lay their eggs inside the eggs of pest insects like moths and beetles. The developing wasp larvae consume the pest eggs, preventing the pests from emerging.
Lesser Grain Borer Parasitoids (e.g., Anisopteromalus calandrae): These wasps target larvae of grain borers and weevils, helping to reduce their numbers.
Trichogramma Wasp
Beneficial Insect Companies
- Koppert Koppert Biological Systems (koppertus.com)
- BioBest Home | Biobest (biobestgroup.com)
- Bioline Agrosciences Bioline AgroSciences: Biocontrol & Integrated Crop Management Bioline
- Applied Bionomics Welcome – Applied Bio-nomics Ltd.
- Beneficial Insectary https://www.insectary.com
- Kunafin https://www.kunafin.com
- Arbico ARBICO Organics Gardening Supplies and Biological Pest Control Products (arbico-organics.com)
- Bugs For Growers – Bugs for Growers
- TipTop Biocontrol Tip Top Bio – Beneficial Insects – Tip Top Bio-Control (tiptopbiocontrol.com)
Biological Treatments of Stored Grain Insects
Diatomaceous Earth (DE): DE is a natural powder made from fossilized remains of diatoms. It works by damaging the exoskeletons of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die. It’s a safe and effective method for organic grain storage. Apply DE to the grain before storage to create a protective layer.
General Application: Use DE at a rate of approximately 1-2 pounds per ton of grain. Surface Treatment: For treating the surface of stored grain, apply a layer of DE at about 0.5 to 1 pound per 1,000 square feet.
How to Apply DE: Ensure the grain is clean and dry before applying DE. The moisture content should be below 14%, as DE is more effective in dry conditions.
Mixing with Grain: Add DE to the grain as it is being transferred into the storage bin. This can be done using a grain auger or conveyor belt. The movement will help mix DE uniformly throughout the grain.
Top Dressing: After filling the storage bin, apply DE on the top surface of the grain. This creates a barrier to prevent insects from entering the grain mass. For best results, ensure even distribution. DE should be mixed thoroughly with the grain to cover all kernels. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as a dust mask and gloves to avoid inhaling DE dust during application. A hand spreader or scoop can be used for smaller quantities, while larger operations may require mechanized equipment for even distribution.
Benefits of Using DE: DE is a natural, non-toxic substance safe for humans and animals. It leaves no harmful residues, making it suitable for organic storage systems. DE is effective against a wide range of insects, including weevils, beetles, and moths.
Additional Tips for DE: Maintain optimal storage conditions. DE is most effective in dry environments, so keeping grain dry and well-ventilated will enhance its efficacy. In long-term storage situations, periodically check the grain and reapply DE if needed, especially if there is significant handling or movement of grain. Always handle DE with care to avoid inhalation and ensure it does not contact eyes. Use in a well-ventilated area or wear appropriate protective gear.
Neem Oil (Azadirachtin): Extracted from the neem tree, neem oil has insecticidal properties that disrupt the life cycle of insects by interfering with their growth and reproduction. It can be used as a spray in storage areas or directly on grain. Here are some products:
Azadirachtin 1.2% | Aza-Direct, AzaPro |
Azadirachtin 3% | AzaGuard, Molt-X |
Azadirachtin 4.5% | Neemix 4.5 |
Azadirachtin: 6.0% | Azasol |
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Bt is a soil-dwelling bacterium that produces proteins toxic to certain insects. When ingested by insects, Bt causes them to stop feeding and eventually die. Bt formulations can be sprayed on grain to control pests like moths and beetles. Here are some products:
Bacillus thuringiensis aizawai | Agree, Xentari | Certis, Valent | bacteria |
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis | Gnatrol, AquaBac | Valent, Becker Microbial | bacteria |
Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki | DiPel, Deliver, Javelin, BT Now, Leprotec | NuFarm, Valent, Certis, BioSafe, Vestaron | bacteria |
Using Pheromone Traps for Organic Grain Storage Pest Control
Pheromone traps are an effective tool for monitoring and controlling insect pests in organic grain storage. They work by emitting synthetic versions of insect pheromones, which attract pests to the trap, thereby reducing their populations and minimizing damage to stored grain.
Benefits of Pheromone Traps
1. Target Specific Pests: Pheromone traps are designed to attract specific insect species, making them effective in targeting particular pests without affecting non-target organisms.
2. Monitoring Pest Activity: These traps help farmers monitor pest populations and detect early infestations, allowing for timely intervention.
3. Reducing Chemical Use: By using pheromone traps, farmers can reduce or eliminate the need for chemical insecticides, aligning with organic farming principles.
Types of Pheromone Traps
1. Sticky Traps: These traps are coated with a sticky substance that captures insects when they land on them. They are commonly used for moths and beetles.
2. Delta Traps: Reusable plastic traps that are suitable for a variety of pests. They are durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use.
3. Wing Traps: These traps are weather-resistant and feature a grid pattern on the bottom for easy counting of trapped insects. They are effective in orchards and greenhouses.
How to Use Pheromone Traps
1. Placement: Position traps at the top and in the center of the grain mass. Pheromone traps can also be placed around the storage area to monitor incoming pests.
2. Monitoring: Check the traps regularly to monitor pest activity. Replace the pheromone lures as needed, typically every 4-6 weeks.
3. Maintenance: Keep traps clean and ensure they are in good condition to maintain their effectiveness.
Sources for Pheromone Traps
Oklahoma Company that I have used a lot!
STORGARD® WB Probe II® Grain Beetle Trap – Trécé, Inc. (trece.com)
Other Resources
- Management of Stored Grain Pests in Organic Systems
- Stored-product Insects and Biological Control Agents
- Preventing Stored Grain Pest Infestations
- Building Soils for Better Crops
- Soil Balancing Basics for Organic Farming
- Biostimulants – The Next New Frontier for Ag
- Best Cover Crops for Weed Control and Fertility
- What is the True Cost of Compost (or Manure) in 2024
- Composts and Herbicides Don’t Mix
- Managing Soil Biology for Organic Farming
- The Economics of Transitioning to Certified Organic Farming
- Farming with Soil Life
- Managing Soil Biology for Organic Farming
- Soil Balancing Basics for Organic Farming
- The Economics of Transitioning to Certified Organic Farming