Story perspectives

Farmers Face Financial Strain Amid Soaring Fertilizer Costs

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rising fertilizer and diesel costs, driven by the ongoing war in Iran, threaten American farmers' finances.
A January survey shows most farmers feel worse off than last year and many struggle to break even.
Fertilizer prices have surged, with urea at $585 per ton, up from $470, and 30–50% of fertilizer ingredients transit through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting global supply-chain disruption and prompting mental-health concerns and plans to quit.

History

Historical Context

The Iranian Revolution of 1979 marked the overthrow of the Pahlavi monarchy, leading to a significant geopolitical shift. Oil production plummeted by 4.8 million barrels daily, causing prices to surge from $13 to $34 per barrel by 1980. Today, rising fertilizer costs, reaching $585 per ton, reflect ongoing supply chain disruptions rooted in this historical upheaval, impacting American farmers and agricultural viability.

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Story summary

Rising fertilizer and diesel costs, driven by the ongoing war in Iran, threaten American farmers' finances.
A January survey shows most farmers feel worse off than last year and many struggle to break even.
Fertilizer prices have surged, with urea at $585 per ton, up from $470, and 30–50% of fertilizer ingredients transit through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting global supply-chain disruption and prompting mental-health concerns and plans to quit.

1 / 2