Mold prevention in fodder systems

Operating steps

At the start of each cycle, check that the ventilation is running and that nothing is blocking the vents or the space around the racks. Leave room between trays so air can pass over the seed.

Load each tray with an even layer of seed. Thick or heaped areas stay wet longer and give mould a place to start, while an even layer dries and breathes more uniformly.

Walk the growing area every day. Look for fuzzy growth, discoloured patches, slimy roots, or an off smell, and note which trays and positions are affected.

Remove an affected tray from the system as soon as you find it, keep its contents away from feed, and clean the tray before it goes back into use. Then review airflow and seed quality for that position.

Precautions

Mouldy fodder must not be fed to animals. When in doubt about a tray, leave it out of the feed, and ask your veterinarian if animals may have eaten suspect fodder.

Wear gloves when handling mouldy material, and consider a dust mask in enclosed spaces. Dispose of it away from the growing room so spores are not carried back in.

Do not try to cover a mould problem by increasing chemical use. Ask the supplier which cleaning products suit your trays, and look for the underlying cause in airflow, seed, or hygiene.

Common questions

Why does mould keep appearing in the same spot?

A repeated problem in one position often points to a local cause, such as weaker airflow, a drip, or warmer air in that corner. Check the conditions around that spot before changing anything else.

Is white fuzz on the roots always mould?

Not always. Fine root hairs can look fuzzy and are normal. Mould tends to look like a web or cotton spread across the seed, often with discoloured patches or a musty smell. If you are unsure, leave the tray out.

Can site conditions be reviewed before purchase?

Yes. Humidity and temperature at the site affect mould risk, and they are discussed when the system is quoted, so ventilation can be planned for your building.