Retail fertilizer prices closed out December 2025 with a mostly softer tone across the U.S. market, offering some short-term relief to farmers managing input costs ahead of 2026 planting decisions. According to data tracked during the fourth week of December, seven of eight major fertilizers declined month over month, with DAP posting the most significant drop, even as all products remain notably higher than a year ago.

The pullback comes amid cautious demand, logistical adjustments in the supply chain, and growing attention on global nutrient flows-particularly in potash and nitrogen, where long-term fundamentals remain supportive despite recent price easing.

DAP (diammonium phosphate) fell 6% from the previous month, averaging $866 per ton, marking the only move considered significant by market standards. Despite the decline, DAP prices are still 17% higher than December 2024, underscoring persistent tightness in phosphorus markets.

Other dry nutrients also trended lower. MAP averaged $884 per ton, potash $484, and urea $567, while liquid and nitrogen products followed a similar pattern. Anhydrous ammonia averaged $863 per ton, UAN28 $409, and UAN32 $466. The lone exception was 10-34-0, which edged higher to $674 per ton.

On a price-per-pound-of-nitrogen basis, urea averaged $0.62/lb. N, anhydrous $0.53/lb. N, and both UAN28 and UAN32 at $0.73/lb. N, levels that continue to challenge margin calculations for corn and wheat producers.

While month-to-month prices softened, the year-over-year comparison remains stark. All eight fertilizers tracked are higher than last December, led by UAN32 (+28%), UAN28 (+26%), anhydrous (+18%), DAP (+17%), and urea (+16%). These increases continue to shape nutrient strategies, including rate optimization, precision agriculture adoption, and shifts in crop mix.

Industry developments may also influence the 2026 outlook. Major producers are reportedly refocusing portfolios, with increased attention on potash as demand growth accelerates in global markets such as India and China. Analysts note that expanding export opportunities and tightening supply could support firmer prices later in 2026, even if short-term softness persists.

DTN has tracked fertilizer prices since 2008, compiling weekly bids from agricultural retailers nationwide. The data remain a key benchmark for producers, co-ops, and agribusinesses navigating volatile markets alongside uncertainty tied to USDA policy, rail transportation, and global trade dynamics.

Fertilizer Prices - Dry Products (FOB)

Fertilizer Prices - Liquid Products (FOB)