“Surprised they aren’t higher": Economists are caught off guard by the lack of fertilizer price action

Fertilizer costs are also top of mind during geopolitical turmoil.

Josh Linville with StoneX says the numbers are telling an interesting story right now.

“Truthfully, I have been surprised prices haven’t been higher. What other things have been keeping a lid on these fertilizer prices from going higher than where they are today is lower grain prices. Obviously, farmers everywhere are talking about the fact that grain prices are not great, they’re not attractive, and so that is keeping the lid because I think the fertilizer industry knows the farmers just can’t buy these values, certainly not ahead of next spring.”

Fertilizer prices have been relatively steady over the last few days. Analysts with DTN found no significant moves last week, with anhydrous falling in price over the last month. Seven of the eight major types are more expensive than a year ago, with urea holding 25 percent above 2024. Potash, on the other hand, is lower in price, falling around seven percent on the year.

Related Stories
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.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain disruptions, rising costs, and the potential impact on agriculture as farmers navigate ongoing global uncertainty.
Suderman joins Tony St. James in the RFD Studios to discuss how geopolitical tensions are triggering global transport disruptions, new inflation pressures, and other challenges for agriculture to navigate.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lewie Pugh, EVP of OOIDA, discusses how lowering the age for commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) to 18 could rejuvenate the trucking labor market.
Founder Venessa Wood joins us now for a sneak peek of Ag Women Connect’s upcoming Red, White & Blue Gala.
“Good flies? Is that like a good fire ant?” Miller said. “I don’t know what a good fly is. I don’t know if they’re afraid to kill house flies or stable flies, but I’m ready to kill the screwworm fly.”
From finding her community in FFA to leading as a State President, Caroline has an inspiring story!
President Trump has long supported a direct line from Alberta’s oil fields to the Midwest.
Culver’s Quality Manager Jim Krombach explains why it is vital for brands to invest in the next generation of agriculture through organizations like FFA.