Comparison of traditional and improved methods of farm maize storage in Honduras

This report presents results of a study comparing this traditional method with a new storage method which involves: (1) storing the maize on a platform (rather than on the ground) and cleaning and disinfecting the storage area prior to storing the maize; and (2) protecting the stored grain against pests by using either anhydrous lime or the insecticide Actellic. After reviewing literature on the subject, the report outlines the study"s methodology, which consisted of field experiments of the new method (using the traditional method as a control) at three village farm sites, along with a parallel effort at an experimental station in Tegucigalpa. The results of these experiments are discussed in detail. A brief final section lists the following conclusions. (1) The improved method of storing ears of maize in the husk using Actellic was effective in reducing storage losses. (2) The use of lime in conjunction with the improved storage method gave variable results, and its effectiveness should be more fully evaluated. (3) Storage improvements tend to reduce maize losses, but do not eliminate them. (4) Good hygiene and proper selection of maize for storage are the most important aspects of the improved method. (5) Based on the overall mean percent losses, the improved method using Actellic or lime resulted in an economic advantage for the farmer.