Factsheets on fertiliser, soils and nutrients re-issued amid price rise
Teagasc has re-issued its factsheets on soils, nutrients and fertiliser in response to rising fertiliser prices this year.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including the practical closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has impacted on both fuel and fertiliser costs.
Exports of between 20% to 45% of key agrifood inputs rely on sea passage through the Strait of Hormuz according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon recent said that the price of calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) is estimated to have risen by around 20% since the beginning of March, while urea has increased by as much as 60%.
Fertiliser
Teagasc said that maximising the efficiency and return on fertiliser inputs will be a "critical factor in managing farm output and margins in the year ahead".
Some 20 factsheets have been assembled by Teagasc to provide the latest technical advice.
The factsheets cover topics such as soil testing; lime application; organic manures; clover; phosphate (P) and potassium (K) advice, and protected urea.
Teagasc said enterprise factsheets provide "practical advice for farmers with cattle, sheep, dairy and tillage businesses".
Teagasc
Commenting on the factsheets, Professor Frank O Mara, Teagasc director, said:
"Teagasc is encouraging farmers to prioritise nutrient management planning, make lime application a priority, make best use of organic manures, and increase the incorporation of clover in swards to help reduce reliance on chemical nitrogen (N).
"Our advisory team will continue to provide the expertise and support needed to help farmers respond to the current fertiliser market and make well-informed decisions," he said.
Dr. Stan Lalor, head of the Knowledge Transfer Programme in Teagasc added that many farmers are currently coming into Teagasc offices for derogation and Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) consultations.
"Take the time during this visit to get your soil analysis interpreted so that you know best how to efficiently use lime, fertiliser and organic manures.
"A cost-effective shopping list as part of a nutrient management plan for the farm is critical for 2026.
"Decisions around application timing, appropriate rates, and the selection of chemical fertilisers and organic manures all play a key role in farm profitability.
"Careful use of nutrients is a ‘win-win’ as it can also help to reduce the risk of greenhouse gas emissions and limit nutrient losses to water," he said.
The factsheets are available for all farmers and agri-professionals to view and download on the Teagasc website.
