As 2025 harvest wraps up, Iowa farmer Brent Judisch is already looking ahead to 2026. "Fertilizer prices are climbing while corn prices are falling. That's not sustainable for any of us," he says. In Black Hawk County, Judisch reports corn prices are down 10%-15%, while nitrogen costs are up 15%-20%, and phosphate prices are even higher.

According to the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), fertilizer alone could make up 36% of a corn grower's operating costs in 2025 - and 2026 offers little relief.

"Input costs for corn have averaged $900 per acre annually over the past four years," says Krista Swanson, NCGA's chief economist. "That trend looks to continue - or even worsen - into 2026."

With volatility ahead, agronomist Ken Ferrie recommends working closely with advisors to optimize input use. "You might save $85 per acre by managing nitrogen efficiently, adjusting seed population by soil type, and switching to non-GMO hybrids," he says. But he warns: "Do your homework - poor decisions could hurt yields and profitability."

Judisch plans to trim phosphate rates where soil fertility allows, but says potash and nitrogen are non-negotiables. "You can't cut there," he states.

Josh Linville, VP of fertilizer at StoneX, advises growers to lock in fall anhydrous ammonia (NH) applications now. While supply is steady today, high demand could tighten availability and spike prices quickly.

Jordan Howe, area manager for Nutrien Financial, agrees. "Talk to suppliers now. Early discussions may offer price advantages or financing terms you haven't had before."

He suggests asking:

• What's the price if I pay cash vs. finance?

• If I finance, is it a fixed or floating interest rate?

Howe warns against low teaser rates that later balloon. Having cash on hand for part of your input purchases could help you negotiate better financing for the rest.

As you plan input purchases, don't forget tax strategy. Jonathan LaPorte, a farm business educator at Michigan State University, recommends keeping your financial plan flexible.

"Avoid over-spending this year just for tax savings. You could end up with a higher tax bill next year if income rebounds," LaPorte notes. His Input Purchasing Plan Template helps farmers run cost scenarios using Word or Excel.