NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — A new nationwide survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) reveals a growing financial strain across U.S. agriculture, with most farmers reporting they cannot afford enough fertilizer to meet their needs this year.
According to the survey, conducted April 3–11, 70 percent of respondents say fertilizer prices are too high to purchase adequate supplies for the 2026 growing season. The survey included more than 5,700 farmers from all 50 states and Puerto Rico, spanning both Farm Bureau members and non-members.
Regional disparities highlight the widespread impact. Nearly 80 percent of farmers in the South report they cannot afford sufficient fertilizer, compared to 69 percent in the Northeast, 66 percent in the West, and 48 percent in the Midwest.
Pre-purchasing trends also varied significantly. Just 19 percent of Southern farmers said they had secured fertilizer ahead of planting season, while the Midwest led with 67 percent. Still, nearly one in three Midwestern producers entered the season without locking in all their fertilizer needs.
AFBF economists point to global instability as a major driver behind rising input costs. Disruptions tied to the conflict in the Middle East—particularly the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—have tightened global supplies of both fertilizer and fuel.
In its Market Intel analysis, AFBF notes: “Spring planting decisions depend heavily on access to fertilizer and diesel fuel, both of which have been impacted by geopolitical risks that have disrupted global markets. Since the escalation of tensions in the Middle East, nitrogen fertilizer prices have risen more than 30%, while combined fuel and fertilizer costs have increased roughly 20% to 40%. Urea prices have increased by 47% since the end of February, marking the largest month-to-month percentage increase in the price of urea. These increases are occurring when many producers were already facing tight margins for many consecutive years.”
As a result, many farmers say they may skip fertilizer applications this spring, hoping prices ease later in the season—raising concerns about potential yield impacts.
AFBF President Zippy Duvall warned of broader consequences, saying, “The skyrocketing cost of fuel and fertilizer is creating more economic hardships for farmers who have already endured years of losses. Without the necessary fertilizers, we’ll face lower yields, and some farmers will reduce acres altogether, which will impact food and feed supplies. It’s too early to know how this will affect food availability and prices in the long run, but it’s a warning light that we’ve shared with leaders in Washington. We look forward to working with them to find solutions so farmers can continue to feed families across America.”
The financial outlook remains challenging across the sector. According to the survey, 94 percent of farmers report their financial situation has either worsened or remained the same compared to last year, while just 6 percent say conditions have improved.
Geopolitical tensions with Iran continue to impact American agriculture, and the Strait of Hormuz remains largely off-limits, leaving fuel and fertilizer supplies in limbo.
The Fertilizer Institute President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to share his outlook on the current fertilizer market.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Rosenbusch discusses what he’s hearing about limited fertilizer movement through the Strait and how disruptions are affecting global supply chains. He also explains how long it could take for markets to stabilize, even if conditions improve quickly, and what actions could help ease the situation.
Rosenbusch also shares insight into how prepared farmers are heading into the season, particularly those who may not have secured inputs early, and how current price trends are influencing planting decisions.
Looking ahead, Rosenbusch outlines potential ripple effects if disruptions persist and offers guidance for producers navigating ongoing uncertainty.
