Chemical fertiliser is one of the biggest expenses on many farms across the country, with prices expected to rise. Due to the increasing cost of raw materials and supply chain issues, many farmers may see the benefit of stocking up on fertiliser now.
It is well known that the lack of nitrogen (N) in the soil can be a limiting factor in spring-grass growth, but the timing and rate of fertiliser N application are key decisions that need to be taken into consideration by every livestock farmer.
Compound Fertiliser
A compound fertiliser contains two or more essential plant nutrients and can include secondary nutrients and trace elements. The essential plant nutrients are N, phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). These elements are required for plants to complete their life cycle. Secondary nutrients are calcium, sulphur and magnesium.
CAN
Calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) is a granular fertiliser, containing 27% N. The combination of ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen makes CAN an universal and excellent fertiliser, which guarantees an optimal nitrogen supply for all plants.
The price range for CAN is approximately €220-230.
Urea And Protected Urea
Urea is an organic compound that occurs naturally. Synthetic urea, containing 46% N, is the most widely used nitrogen fertiliser in the world.
Sample prices for straight range between €320-350 while protected urea ranges in price from €338 to €350.
Preparing a farm fertiliser plan through regular soil sampling is a key part of ensuring that fertiliser is being used to its maximum potential.
