Spring barley grown in the Northern Hemisphere is typically harvested in July or August while winter barley is harvested in the April or May. The moisture level of the barley should be less than 18 percent. Moisture levels can be determined by measuring the barley’s weight or by using an electronic moisture meter. [2] X Research source

Hold the top of the grain with your non-dominant hand while you use a sickle with your dominant hand. Use caution when you use a scythe or sickle since they are very sharp. Take your time as you use a scythe or sickle since it could strain your arms and back.

Combines are available to rent from farm equipment and large machinery stores. Consult with who you’re renting from for any additional instructions. Work from one side of the field to the other in rows so you can collect all the barley you’ve planted. Slightly overlap the rows you’ve already worked on so you don’t miss any of your barley.

Upright bundles of grains left to dry are known as “stooks. ” Drying the barley will prevent diseases and rot once they are stored. If there is rain in the forecast, cover your stooks with tarps to prevent them from getting wet.

A bedsheet will work as a substitute if you do not already have a tarp. Work outdoors so there is a breeze. This helps blow away chaff that’s still attached to the grain. If you have to work indoors, open a window or door to make sure it’s ventilated.

Threshing machines will do this process for you if you have access to one and will work much faster for larger crops. They can be rented from farm equipment or large machinery stores.

If you’re working in an enclosed space, use a fan pointed at the buckets to blow away any chaff.

Grain bins can range from large silo-like structures to drum barrels. Use food-grade drum liner bags if you don’t want to disinfect the grain bin. Large silos can be cleaned using a broom and a large vacuum on the floor. You can also hire a professional service to clean your silos for you.

Use products like neem oil or an EcoSmart spray solution. You can make your own insecticide with chili powder, dish soap, or garlic. Inspect the barley every 2 or 3 weeks for infestation, especially if the weather is warm. Spray all of the interior and exterior walls of a silo-sized grain bin using a large sprayer.

Barley can last for a few years if it is stored properly. Keep an aeration fan running in a large silo to keep temperatures down.