Open sun drying generally means spreading grain on the ground in a yard or leaving cut grain in the field. In some cases, grain is spread on a tarp or mat, which can reduce losses. Open sun drying is the least resource-and-cost-intensive method of drying and is suitable for small batches. However, weather conditions can sharply limit the effectiveness and safety of open sun drying.
Capacity: limited by space
Drying time: depends on weather conditions, 2 to 5 days
Crops: any
Fuel: sun
Portable? not applicable
Performance considerations: grain needs to be shifted periodically to improve drying.