Life Sciences Commons^™

Sp341-W-Insects In Grain Bins, The University Of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service

Field & Commercial Crops

One of the most common insects in stored grain is the Indian-meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hubner). These moths are called “flour moths” in Tennessee because they feed on flour or milled products. In farm grain bins, they prefer broken grains or grains damaged by other pests and seldom attack sound grain kernels. They cause problems by spinning webbings as immature. This causes lower quality in stored grain.

W077 Planting Corn For Grain In Tennessee, The University Of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service

Field & Commercial Crops

Although seed genetics can dictate yield, a poorly planted seed never reaches its yield potential. Favorable weather plays an important role in stand quality, but producers can save money on replant costs by managing factors that can be controlled, such as field selection and planting time, seedbed preparation, seeding rate, planter settings and insect management.

Sp341-V-Sampling Stored Grain For Insects, Molds And Related Problems, The University Of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service

Field & Commercial Crops

The periodic and timely sampling of stored grains can detect existing or potential problems before considerable damage has occurred. Proper sampling of stored grain can reveal increases in moisture or temperature and insect or mold problems in the grain.

It is important to be aware of the potential hazards of sampling inside a grain bin. Suffocation can occur in grain bins, and sampling should be done with caution.