Planning for high fertiliser prices in a beef system
The fertiliser price over the last six months has been on an upward trajectory and as we enter the main growing season hope of prices falling fade. Gas is an essential component in the manufacturing process of Urea, with urea driving the price of fertiliser globally. Gas supply and prices, reduced export of urea from China, interruptions to manufacturing due to COVID-19 and rising haulage costs have all contributed to nitrogen prices which are almost 4 times higher than in September 2020, phosphate and potash have also followed the same trend. This will have a substantial impact on input costs and requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure there is a justifiable return on fertiliser investment.
Useful resources:
Spring Grazing & Fertiliser – The Proof is in the Planning:
In this webinar specialists Lorna Galloway and Poppy Frater discuss soil health, good nutrient management practices and strategic grazing plan options to reduce reliance on purchased inorganic fertilisers, whilst optimising grass growth and livestock performance to futureproof the sustainability of sheep enterprises.
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