Experts predict that the demand for grain will grow by 70% over the next 30 years. As the demand for grain increases, so does the amount of grain that farmers and millwrights are responsible for growing, processing and storing. The grain farming process is complex, and it is essential to understand the correct procedures of each step in the grain farming process. These steps include planting, growing, harvesting, threshing and storing the final product. By breaking down each step of the process, you will gain a better understanding of how to produce a high-quality product with minimal waste.
How to Grow Grain
The specific steps of growing grain depend on the type of grain you’re interested in producing. The most commonly produced grain types include:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Oats
- Corn or maize
- Rye
- Sorghum
- Millet
- Buckwheat
- Amaranth
- Quinoa
- Rice
- Teff
Wheat, oats, rice, corn, barley, sorghum, rye and millet are considered “true cereal grains” because they belong to the Poaceae family. Non-Poaceae grains, including amaranth, buckwheat and quinoa, are considered “pseudo-cereal grains” because they have a similar nutritional value, texture and appearance. The key to producing high-quality grains is to choose the right seeds. Make sure your seed supplier has tested all seeds for disease, weeds and germination. Although different types of grain or grain combinations might have specific growing requirements, some basic steps include the following:
- Choose a sunny spot: Although grains are a fairly resilient crop, they do require ample sunlight to grow. Choose a spot of land with good soil and plenty of sunshine. If you have previously planted on this land before, make sure the former crop will not have a negative effect on the new one.
- Test the soil: If you are concerned about the quality of your soil, have it professionally tested before you begin planting.
- Till the soil: Till the area completely to a depth of at least six inches. Incorporate a thin layer of compost if you feel the soil could use a boost of nutrients before planting.
- Spread the seeds: Use a seed spreader for even grain seed distribution.
- Rake: Gently rake the area to move the seeds into the dirt.
- Add a layer of straw: To keep your seeds safe from movement or wildlife, loosely lay a layer of straw on top.
- Water the area: Water your seeds upon planting, and keep them moist until they begin to sprout. Be careful not to over-saturate the soil.
Always consult the seed packaging or provider before planting for complete instructions or special considerations.
When to Plant Grain
Most grains are annual crops, meaning you germinate, grow and harvest them in a single year. Depending on the type of grain you’re producing, you grow them in either cool or warm weather months. Oats, rye and most types of wheat are best suited for fall planting, while buckwheat, millet and some kinds of wheat need the warmth of the spring sun.
How to grow your chosen grain also depends on where you live. The USDA has a map that shows where each region of the country falls in terms of “plant hardiness.” By consulting the hardiness zone map, you can figure out which grains will thrive best in your location, as well as the best time to plant them.
North Central
The average annual minimum extreme temperature (AAEMT) in North Central U.S. ranges from minus 40 to 10 degrees above Fahrenheit. The AAEMT will impact various soil conditions, like moisture content and overall soil health. Part of this region is known as the “corn belt” because soybean and corn crops make up 75% of the agricultural land. Other thriving grains here include alfalfa and wheat.
Northeast
The Northeast AAEMT ranges from minus 40 to 15 degrees above Fahrenheit. Some grains that grow well in those conditions include:
- Barley
- Rye
- Mustard
- Buckwheat
- Sorghum
Northwest
The AAEMT in Northwest U.S. ranges from minus 40 to 25 degrees above Fahrenheit. Some common grains growing in these conditions include:
- Wheat
- Peas
- Lentils
- Oats
- Corn
South Central
The AAEMT in South Central ranges from minus 10 to 35 degrees above Fahrenheit. Grains commonly grown here include:
- Sorghum
- Rice
- Wheat
- Soybeans
- Corn
Southeast
The Southeast states have an AAEMT range of minus 15 to 45 degrees above Fahrenheit. Common grain crops in Southeast U.S. are:
- Sorghum
- Corn
- Hay
- Cottonseed
- Soybean
- Rye
- Wheat
Southwest
With an AAEMT of minus 35 to 45 degrees above Fahrenheit, grain crops commonly grown in Southwest U.S. include:
- Wheat
- Hay
- Millet
- Rye
- Oats
- Quinoa
How to Harvest Grain
Before harvesting wheat, it needs to dry to a minimum of 20%. One of the best indicators that it is time to harvest your grain is its color. As grain reaches the ideal moisture level, it changes from green to brown. You can harvest mature grains by hand using a sickle, scythe or pruners to remove the seed heads. Large-scale, commercial farms can use agricultural machinery to harvest grain, such as a combine harvester.
How to Thresh Grain
When it comes to the grain harvesting process, there are some different terms you should know to successfully harvest and thresh your grain before storage. Some of those terms are:
- Threshing: Threshing is the process of loosening the grain from its casing so it’s easier to remove. You can do this by rubbing or flailing the grain by hand or machine.
- Chaff: The chaff is the casing that surrounds the edible part of the grain. The chaff is not suitable for human consumption.
- Winnowing: When you winnow grain, you separate the chaff from the edible grain.
- Flailing: Flailing is a process of threshing the grain with a wooden bar.
- Treading: Treading is a process of threshing the grain by stepping on it.
- Thresher: A thresher, also known as a threshing machine, is a piece of machinery you can use to thresh large amounts of grain at once.
Once harvested, be sure to allow the seed heads to dry for at least seven to 10 days before you begin the threshing process.
How to Store Grain
Once you have threshed your grain, it’s time to store it. Understanding the proper grain storage techniques is essential. Otherwise, you risk wasting or ruining some — if not all — of your crop. To store your grain, you need a moisture- and weather-resistant, grain storage system with an easily regulated temperature. Grain bins are one of the most common commercial grain storage methods. When choosing a grain bin for your farm, choose the right size for your crop.
If you plan to store your grain long-term, keep in mind that it needs to reach a drier level than other grains. The exact moisture level varies between the types of grains, but less than 15% is usually recommended. When storing grains, it’s essential that there is adequate air flow, so conditions stay dry and free of mold.
Using grain handling systems is the best way to ensure high-quality grain. The right system can also keep your crop safe from pest infestation. Certain products, like grain cushion boxes, can also help protect your crop from damage that may occur naturally during grain flow. Other products, like dust suppression hoppers, can keep you or your employees safe from storage and handling related hazards. Once you have stored your grain in a grain handling system, remember to check it often and make any adjustments as needed.
Get Custom Grain Handling Equipment From LCDM
Because every farm, industry and crop is different, a custom grain handling system is an excellent way to ensure that you have everything you need to store and transport your post-harvest grains safely. At LCDM, we will work one-on-one with you to develop the best layout for your handling system and help you choose the best equipment for optimal storage and minimal operating costs. Contact us today or visit us online to learn more about our custom handling solutions.
