Fall 2026 fertilizer prices run 7–24% above last year as harvest season approaches

Average fertilizer prices in Illinois heading into the fall 2026 application season are running significantly above the past two years, according to farmdoc daily at the University of Illinois. As of August 7, DAP averaged $912 per ton — 7% above August 2025 and 24% higher than August 2024. Anhydrous ammonia and diesel fuel have also climbed above prior-year levels.

The elevated fall 2026 fertilizer prices reflect lingering effects of the Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, which pushed urea and ammonia costs sharply higher in the first half of 2026. While wholesale prices have retreated from spring peaks, farm-gate costs have been slower to adjust. The farmdoc analysts noted that damaged infrastructure and logistics bottlenecks around the strait could continue to affect markets even if conflict activities cease.

With USDA projecting net farm income to decline in 2026 and total farm debt heading toward a record $624.7 billion, the analysts recommended that farmers consider a diversified purchasing approach — pricing a portion of 2027 nutrient needs this fall despite elevated costs. Increasing planned soybean acreage relative to corn is another strategy to reduce overall nitrogen fertilizer expenses for the coming crop year.

Source: farmdoc daily