Canola Harvest and Storage

Swath and gently compress. Swath when seeds on bottom third of main stem turns brown, seeds roll between fingers and do not squash. Swath as high as possible to provide maximum stubble.

Combining

Canola is considered dry at seed moisture of 10%. Green seeds can cause loss of grade. Unless seeds are frosted, green will turn to yellow if left a few more days.

Cylinder Speed

400-650 rpm. Use low wind velocity by adjusting fan speed.

Spread Straw to avoid uneven crops the next year.

Storage

If the storage bin is not equipped with an aeration system, the moisture content should be 8.5% or lower. If the canola temperature is above 77 Degrees F when placed into storage, the moisture content should be below 8%. In storages equipped with aeration systems, canola can be stored safely at 9% moisture, if the temperature is reduced as soon as outside air conditions permit. Winter storage temperature should be 41 Degrees F or lower.

Storage and handling problems of canola are similar to those of flax. The seed is round, small, heavy and runs freely. Very tight truck boxes and storage bins are required. The seed can sweat for up to six weeks after harvest. So heating and spoilage can occur even at 9-10 percent moisture levels. Canola as low as 8 1/2 percent moisture should be examined for heating at regular intervals. If harvested at high moisture, natural air drying or artificial drying can be used. To maintain seed quality, a drying temperature of 110 F is maximum for commercial production. If a significant amount of foreign material (straw) is included with the seed, it may be advantageous to run it over a scalper before drying and binning.