Summary
A farmer in Merseyside, UK, named Olly Harrison, says rising fertiliser costs have made it more profitable to sell his fertiliser than to use it for planting crops. The conflict in the Middle East has increased fertiliser prices, and weather conditions have limited farming options, making planting less viable.
Key Facts
- Olly Harrison is a farmer in Tarbock, Merseyside.
- Fertiliser costs have increased due to the conflict in the Middle East, affecting supplies.
- A significant portion of fertiliser chemicals pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route.
- Harrison bought fertiliser last year at about £340 per tonne, now prices have risen to over £700 per tonne.
- Wet and cold spring weather has reduced the number of days available to grow crops.
- Harrison is considering selling his fertiliser instead of using it due to the high costs and reduced growing days.
- The closure of a nearby fertiliser factory has increased reliance on imported supplies.
- Global events like conflicts and Covid-19 have raised farming costs and made the situation more unpredictable.
