Effective Onion Storage Against Heat and Moisture: Bajra Stalk Innovation Extends Shelf Life

A progressive young farmer from Gunat village in Shirur taluka of Pune district, Maharashtra, has shared his innovative approach to onion storage. For the past eight years, he has been using bajra (pearl millet) stalks in his onion storage sheds. This method reduces air circulation, preventing sprouting, while also keeping the sheds cool during hot weather. As a result, onions remain safe for a longer period.
The farmer further explained that in tin-roof storage sheds, he places sugarcane leaves or straw over the onions. This acts as an insulating layer, protecting the onions from the direct heat of the roof and safeguarding the crop.

Recalling traditional practices, he highlighted that before tin or cement slab houses became common, farmers built huts using local plants and stalks. These huts stayed cool in summer and warm in winter, and the same principle is proving effective for onion storage. Farmers in the western part of Shirur are also successfully adopting this method, increasing the shelf life of their onion stock.

Best Practices for Onion Storage:

1. Selection of Storage Site:

• Store onions only in dry, well-ventilated spaces.
• Storage sheds should be built on elevated ground to avoid rainwater entry.
• Clean and disinfect the storage area before use.

2. Harvesting and Drying:

• After harvesting, dry onions in sunlight for 10–15 days.
• Store only when the neck portion is completely dry.

3. Protection from Heat:

• Use bajra stalks or straw sheds to reduce heat and sprouting.
• In tin sheds, cover onions with sugarcane leaves or straw.
• Store onions on wooden planks or mesh platforms to ensure airflow.

4. Storage Method:

• Keep onion heaps limited to 2–3 feet in height.
• Excess height may cause lower layers to rot under pressure.
• Grade onions by size (small, medium, large) before storing.

5. Storage Precautions:

• Inspect onions every 15–20 days and remove rotten or sprouted ones.
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent spoilage due to moisture and heat.
• Spray pesticides around storage areas to protect from pests and rodents.