A projected record corn harvest, along with low prices, has many farmers considering storage for their corn and soybeans this fall. As grain bins fill up, a "bag silo" may be an option for over-winter storage.

Klein Ileleji, a grain post-harvest technology expert at Purdue University, said potential users should be aware that the bags, which can measure up to 12 feet in diameter and 328 feet in length, require careful site preparation, regular monitoring for moisture content and temperature, and special tools for loading and unloading.

“It’s not as simple as opening one end and shoveling in the corn,” Ileleji said.

He offers the following tips for growers considering or using grain storage bags this year:

1. Position bags away from tree and fence lines. This will help keep away pesky intruders. As will keeping the site clean and free of spills and brush.

2. Make sure the site is dry and well drained. If possible, place the bags on a concrete slab, and check frequently for damage to the plastic cover.

3. Be sure the crop is dry before storing it. Ileleji recommends drying the grain to 15% or lower before bagging it up.

Read more tips for storing grain in bags from Purdue Extension.

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