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
Kentucky Farm Bureau President Eddie Melton joins us to discuss fertilizer affordability concerns, Senate Agriculture Committee testimony, and spring planting conditions in Kentucky.
Dr. Robert Ellis joins us to discuss economic challenges in agriculture, available resources for farmers, and ways producers can evaluate practices to strengthen their operations.
President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are expected to discuss commodities, trade and regional stability during meetings in Asia.
Economists say geopolitical headlines and concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz are driving volatility