By Scout Nelson
As harvest approaches, soybean producers face important decisions regarding storage and marketing strategies. With current market pressures leading to lower soybean prices, many may consider storing soybeans to capture potential price increases later in the season.
Effective on-farm storage depends on understanding key factors such as moisture content, temperature, and storage method.
Soybeans are typically stored at a standard moisture level of 13%, which allows safe storage for up to six months at temperatures below 60°F. However, grain variability—such as the presence of green soybeans, pods, or large waxy seeds—can increase the risk of spoilage. Using bins with full-floor aeration helps equalize temperature and moisture throughout storage.
High-temperature drying should be done carefully, keeping heat levels below 130°F to avoid cracking and seed coat damage. For storage beyond six months, a lower moisture content of around 11% is recommended.
Safe storage times are cumulative, meaning partial use of high-moisture storage reduces total safe storage duration.
Alternative storage options, such as poly bags, can provide flexibility but require regular monitoring. Bags should be placed in well-drained areas, aligned north to south to balance solar heating, and checked often for moisture or pest damage.
Since poly bags lack air circulation, soybeans must be uniformly dry before storage to prevent spoilage.
Producers may also choose to haul directly to market, honoring forward contracts and avoiding potential storage losses. While direct sales provide immediate cash flow and minimize handling shrinkage, the decision should consider price trends, time value of money, and available storage capacity.
For additional guidance, producers can consult University of Minnesota Extension’s Managing Stored Grain to Minimize Storage Losses and NDSU’s Alternative Grain Storage Methods resources. Careful planning now ensures higher grain quality, safer storage, and better profitability for the 2025 harvest.
Photo Credit:istock-ds70
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Soybeans, Energy, Harvesting, Weather