Knowing when wheat is ready and the safe moisture for storage and MSP sale.
What is the right harvesting time and moisture for wheat?
PPrakash Singh8mo ago · 253 views
4 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓7mo ago
Harvest wheat when the crop turns golden yellow, the straw is dry, and the grain is hard, at about 12 to 14 percent moisture, usually 120 to 145 days after sowing depending on variety and region. If you press a grain with your nail and it does not dent, it is ready. For combine harvesting, slightly higher moisture is fine, but for safe storage dry the grain to around 10 to 12 percent. Procurement centres accept wheat at up to about 12 to 14 percent moisture under fair average quality norms, so over-moist grain may be rejected or fetch a lower price. Do not delay harvest too long, as over-dry crop shatters and loses grain.
NNaveen7mo ago
I check by biting a few grains. If they crack hard, I bring in the combine. Selling at the right moisture avoids rejection at the centre.
IIshwar Singh7mo ago
Do not leave the crop standing too long thinking drier is better. An over-dry field shatters and you lose grain on the ground, especially with combine harvesting. There is a sweet spot, not the driest possible.
RRampal Singh6mo ago
For MSP sale, check the moisture norm before you load. The centre near us has a moisture meter, and slightly damp grain was sent back to dry. Better to spread and dry it at home for a day than make a wasted trip.