The IFA has published the results of a survey on fertiliser prices that it conducted across the country last month.
The survey collected the prices of several fertilisers in each county. Results show a significant variation in fertiliser prices across the country ranging from €10/t to €30/t.
The keenest quotes are for volume orders and or near cash deals. In many cases, bulk purchase and self-collection reduce prices by €10 to 20/t.
However, some merchants are offering extended credit terms in order to secure good business. Buyer groups in many instances are securing discounts on the above quotes.
Shop around
IFA farm business and inputs chairperson, Rose Mary McDonagh, said: “While fertiliser prices will differ slightly from region to region, there are still savings to be made from shopping around.”
McDonagh said since the beginning of February, there have been aggressive price hikes, with increases of €30/t common across most fertilisers, despite strong supply.
Wholesale prices, she pointed out, have increased because of difficulties in sourcing raw materials and the impact of COVID-19 on supply chains.
The farm group has stated that the prices contained in this state reflect what has been reported by its members from different regions last month.
Irish farmgate fertiliser prices (bagged, delivered)
Product | Min (€/t) | Max (€/t) |
Urea (granular) | 315 | 335 |
Urea (protected) | 350 | 375 |
CAN | 210 | 245 |
18-6-12 | 320 | 330 |
SulCAN | 205 | 220 |
10-10-20 | 340 | 370 |
Pasture Sward | 310 | 330 |
Cut Sward | 320 | 345 |
[Source: IFA]
Spreading fertiliser
Meanwhile, the fourth video in the Fertilizer Association of Ireland’s video series on the Efficient Use of Fertilisers focuses on understanding and mapping soil test results for your farm.
This builds on the information provided in the three previous videos in the series to date, soil sampling, fertiliser planning and soil analysis process.
New soil test results will reveal current soil fertility levels and indicate changes in soil pH and nutrient supply since the last set of results. This information will provide the basis for planning lime, organic manure, and fertiliser applications for the next 3 to 5 years.
It advises farmers to prepare a farm fertiliser plan with their advisor for each field for the year. This will help target cattle slurry to the right parts of the farm.
It will also ensure that you select the correct fertiliser products and optimise application rates and timings to maximise the return on investment and ensure the sustainability of all nutrient applications.