Croppers are being warned to watch for sprouting grain and to store at correct moisture levels as the rain-delayed harvest kicks back into gear this week.
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With reports of up to 200mm in parts of Victoria this month, it appears that all grain growing regions of the state have been affected by the rains.
Department of Primary Industries project manager Chris Sounness said variety, soil type, crop maturity and wind conditions and canopy density would all play a role in the extent of any weather damage.
"While a few days of favourable weather have helped in the drying out process, actually getting heavy machinery and trucks in and out of paddocks to transport the grain remains a challenge," Mr Sounness said.
"In some cases crops could also shoot or sprout before paddocks dry out enough for harvesting.
"The visible signs of sprouting include splitting in the germ region followed by the root appearing, seed discoloration and fungal staining."
Multiple rains with low wind or cool conditions can increase the risk of shot grain.
"Once harvested, wheat, barley oats and peas should be stored at less than 12 per cent moisture," Mr Sounness said.
"Storing grain at too high a moisture level will encourage the formation of fungal spores which may have a toxic effect when used as a stock feed."
Mr Sounness said growers should ensure that they avoid mixing higher quality grain with even small amounts that were weather damaged.
"With grain quality issues expected across the nation and potential locust impact early next season, croppers need to ensure they have sufficient volumes of seed quality grain set aside for next year’s sowing program," Mr Sounness said.
"This rain has created trying circumstances for croppers and as a rural community we must continue to support each other through these times."
