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
Research shows a small number of companies account for much of the nation’s ammonia production capacity.
Fred Seamon with CME Group joins us to discuss the latest Ag Economy Barometer and the key economic pressures shaping producer sentiment in May.
Brazil Potash CEO Matt Simpson discusses global fertilizer security, the importance of domestic production, and Brazil’s push toward fertilizer independence, which could impact market competitiveness.
Improved coffee output could strengthen the U.S. supply, but input costs and weather risks keep the outlook uncertain.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Michigan corn farmer and NCGA Vice President-Elect Matt Frostic will lead the task force. He joined us on Thursday to share his insights on the escalating corn crisis.
Speaking about his administration’s tariff strategy, Trump acknowledged that producers could face financial strain in the short term but promised stopgap support.
Rising cow numbers and higher yields are boosting milk supplies, which may keep pressure on prices and farm margins into the fall.
As input costs continue to rise, diesel prices have held steady in recent weeks, according to energy analysts at GasBuddy.
The USDA is moving to close the farm trade gap through promotion, missions, and stronger export financing.
Farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen explains the IRS’s shift to electronic payments and disbursements, and what it means for upcoming tax filings.