What considerations must be taken into account when fumigating stored grain?

When fumigating stored grain, one of the most crucial considerations is the moisture content of the grain and the proper sealing of the storage structure. Moisture content is vital because it influences the effectiveness of the fumigant. High moisture levels can lead to a variety of issues, including mold growth, which can compromise grain quality and make it harder for fumigants to penetrate effectively. Conversely, if the grain is too dry, it may also affect the behavior of the fumigant.

Proper sealing of the storage structure is imperative to ensure that the fumigant does not escape and that it can maintain its concentration over the necessary exposure time. If the storage is not adequately sealed, the gases may dissipate too quickly, resulting in ineffective pest control, which defeats the purpose of the fumigation process.

In contrast, factors such as the brand of the grain being stored, the size of the storage area, and the time of day for fumigation are less critical in the context of effective fumigation. While these aspects may have certain practical implications, they do not directly influence the key variables that determine the efficacy of the fumigation process as much as moisture content and sealing do.