Fertilizer
The Executive Order signed by President Trump Monday comes after years of farmer lobbying against phosphate duties, with Texas A&M estimating $6.9B in added costs since 2021 tied to sharply higher DAP fertilizer prices.
Reopening of the global fertilizer supply pinch point gives optimism but many questions remain.
Heavy rains and hail have triggered widespread nutrient deficiencies, disease pressure and weed threats in parts of Illinois, Iowa and other states. Field Agronomist Ken Ferrie outlines some strategies for farmers looking to salvage their corn and soybeans.
The request allocates $10 billion to row and specialty crop producers for crops planted in 2026, with the remaining $1.1 billion designated for Florida farmers hit by winter storms in late 2025 and early 2026.
As the crop enters rapid growth stages, Agronomist Missy Bauer tells farmers to confirm nitrogen and sulfur availability or risk leaving bushels in the field.
After waiting months for much-needed moisture, heavy rainfall is turning early-summer fieldwork into a high-stakes scramble for some Midwest farmers.
A two-pass boron strategy at bloom and pod set shows consistent yield payoffs across the Corn Belt, though agronomists warn the line between benefit and toxicity can be narrow.
Family partnership, peer groups and open-door networking have shaped Jake Drozd’s belief that farmers get better together.
As corn starts moving into the rapid growth stages, Farm Journal Field Agronomist Missy Bauer says now is the time for disciplined N assessments and applications — not reactionary rate cuts.
The May Farm Journal Ag Economists’ Monthly Monitor reveals growing concern over farm profitability, rising debt costs and long-term financial stress, with economists saying many operations may need significant restructuring to remain viable.
Don’t let nitrogen and phosphorus demand outpace supply. Learn how to manage the midseason nutrient surge with these four expert tips on precision placement and split applications.
FTC chairman Andrew Ferguson announced a formal investigation Thursday into fertilizer pricing and market concentration, drawing a standing ovation from farmers representing 18 states.
USDA and the Trump administration have unveiled a long-term fertilizer strategy focused on boosting U.S. production, fast-tracking projects and lowering costs.
Agronomists explain why nitrogen must be present in the root zone well before the crop’s daily demand peaks.
Sidedressing is often the best opportunity in-season to address corn nutrient needs, but Ken Ferrie urges caution if you plan to go with “blind sidedressing” before the crop emerges or at spike. He offers three considerations.
Producers report mounting pressure from higher diesel, fertilizer and machinery expenses, alongside trade uncertainty and rural healthcare concerns, as policy impacts and election-year sentiment weigh on the farm economy.
As producers navigate financial strain and D.C. disconnect, realities such as steep input costs, trade frustrations and E15 limbo are becoming decisive factors shaping the rural vote.
Huma expands Surf-Max access to California as western water pressures intensify
Spotty spring rains have slowed planting in southwest Iowa, leaving farmers slightly behind. Despite delays, strong planning, good moisture, and a favorable forecast has Pat Sheldon optimistic for the 2026 crop season.
As the Strait closure enters its tenth week, supply chain gridlock and policy hurdles suggest high input costs will persist through the 2027 planting season, according to Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer with StoneX.
Shrinking equity, rising nitrogen costs and continued global upheaval signal a reckoning for corn growers and a shift to soybeans — especially if higher biomass-based blending diesel mandates come through.
Former NFL player Cody White applies his athletic experience on the field to rising input costs and market volatility in DeWitt County, Illinois.
With one survey showing 48% of Midwest corn and soybean growers are unable to afford traditional fertilizer sources, Extension and industry are responding with nutrient options that can lend support.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says a multi-agency Trump administration effort will target fertilizer costs and boost U.S. production, with a major announcement expected yet this week.
Two Midwest growers say increased competition between corn and soybeans for acres could help rebalance supplies and provide a financial boost.
As fertilizer prices climb and supplies tighten during geopolitical turmoil, Hylio’s Arthur Erickson says precision drone technology is helping farmers cut input costs while protecting yields.
A Farmer’s Keeper survey of 4,000 farmers shows 20% are cutting corn acres as record fertilizer prices and supply gaps force last-minute shifts toward soybeans and other crops to protect profitability.
In a candid conversation with Farm Journal, USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden says USDA’s message to fertilizer companies is simple: “Be part of the solution, don’t be part of the problem.”