CAN prices are up €5/t around the country. This varies based on location, with prices in the east averaging €260/t compared with €270/t in the south. Meanwhile, most places in the midlands and west are quoting an average price of €265/t. All prices are based on the delivered price.
Suppliers have told the Irish Farmers Journal that there has been a large quantity of fertiliser going out this week. Sales are expected to continue at these high levels over the coming days, as the weather provides an opportunity to spread fertiliser on marginal lands.
Urea prices remain unchanged from the €350/t available last week. Demand for urea has waned as farmers move more towards compound fertilisers. A limited supply for most merchants has meant prices are not reflecting this drop in demand. However, in some areas, high moisture conditions has seen some continue to spread urea.
Compound demand
Compound fertilisers have shown the greatest upward trend in prices. Both cut and pasture sward prices have increased by €5 and €10 respectively to €365/t in the last seven days. With most of these purchases going towards first-cut silage grounds, it is likely prices will remain at these levels for the coming week.
Meanwhile, the biggest jump in price has come in 18:6:12, which has increased by an average of €15 in the past week alone, up to €365/5. Merchants noted a strong demand for this type of product.