Nitrogen fertilizer prices could be as much as 20% higher this year over last

Harvest is around the corner, and as farmers begin looking ahead to next year, fertilizer will be a big input to consider. It is also one of the most volatile markets.

Researchers at the University of Illinois found nitrogen prices have been as much as 20 percent higher this year over last. While prices are down significantly from highs we saw in early 2022, they are still above historical trends.

Analysts expect anhydrous to hold at $750-$800 per ton through the fall. They also suggest getting price quotes from multiple sources given everyone’s tight financial situations lately.

Analysts with DTN found no major changes over the last week on prices of some of the most popular fertilizers. However, looking back one year, seven of the eight major fertilizers are now more expensive.

UAN-32 takes the lead, coming in 32 percent more expensive than last year. The only fertilizer to see a year-over-year price drop is potash, coming in four percent off this time last year.

Related Stories
As farmers and ranchers navigate rising input costs, lawmakers are considering a roughly $15 billion aid package to help, which would be tied to the spending bill for the war with Iran.
Reported results include stronger in-season nitrogen response, average yield gains of more than seven bushels per acre and more than $18 per acre in net return.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how conflict in the Middle East is affecting spring planting as farmers navigate the evolving situation.
The Mosaic Company’s Keith Byerly shares smart input investment strategies, fertilizer considerations, and ways growers can manage risk heading into the 2026 growing season.
Energy risks could reshape global ag trade flows.
Geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz disrupt fertilizer shipments, raising costs and creating uncertainty for U.S. farmers ahead of planting season.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Crop insurance remains a vital tool for managing climate-driven risk.
Dr. Todd Davis, Chief Economist with the Indiana Farm Bureau, shares a snapshot of his state’s harvest conditions and insights from producers.
Market analyst Kevin Huddleston said news of trade deals could rebound cotton prices in late fall, and producers need to be ready to strike deals.
Texas A&M 4-H Director Montza Williams joins for an update on the expected timeline for the program’s new facility and all the associated benefits.
From tinkering with machines to building projects from scratch, students in the National FFA Organization develop skills to help shape future careers.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us to break down the latest data on Canadian farmland values and share insights on how it impacts producers.