By Blake Jackson
Fertilizer prices often change, and farmers are now facing high costs for potassium (K) and phosphorus (P). Prices have increased significantly compared to previous years, making it important for farmers to plan carefully for the 2026 growing season.
When prices rise, many farmers wonder if they can delay applying these nutrients. According to a University of Missouri Extension specialist, the answer is yes if soil nutrient levels are already near recommended levels. Soil testing plays a key role in making this decision.
The specialist compares soil nutrients to a fuel tank. “If your gas tank is full, you know you can travel 500 miles before the tank runs dry,” he says. “If you are making a trip that is 200 miles, you can, with confidence, make that trip once without refilling your tank. The second trip is also likely fine. But you know you will need to refuel before completing the third trip.”
This means that if soil tests show good nutrient levels, farmers can skip applying fertilizer for one year without reducing crop yield. In some cases, even skipping for two years may not cause problems. Many farmers already apply phosphorus and potassium every other year.
There are several ways to reduce fertilizer costs. One option is to avoid applying fertilizer fields where soil tests already show enough nutrients. Another option is to reduce the application rate by half, which can still provide strong crop results. Farmers can also apply only the amount of nutrients that crops remove, which is a safe and balanced approach.
However, some conditions may still cause nutrient shortages. Compacted soil can limit root growth, making it harder for plants to absorb potassium. Cold or wet soil can also reduce phosphorus availability for a short time. In many cases, crops recover as conditions improve.
Sandy soils or soils with low organic matter may not store nutrients well, so skipping fertilizer may not work for long.
Soil testing helps farmers understand their fields and manage risks. “When fertilizer prices are high, we can also use soil testing to understand the risks of not applying fertilizer,” Lory said.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-d-keine
Categories: Missouri, Crops, General