12 February 2025

Listen: Fertiliser applications and the National Fertiliser Database

In the second part of a two-part series on fertiliser application, Specialist on the Signpost Programme, Mark Plunkett joins Catherine Egan on the Beef Edge podcast to discuss fertiliser application and the National Fertiliser Database.

Listen in below:

Fertiliser usage on Irish farms, particularly chemical nitrogen (N), was recapped by Mark, who noted that there was a 10% increase in 2024 compared to 2023. Chemical N use was at an all-time low in 2023 and, in addition, 2024 proved to be a challenging grass growing year which was perhaps the reason for increased N fertiliser usage.

Mark also detailed stats from the fertiliser market, most notably:

• The straight N market increased by 2% in 2024 to 58%. 
• The compound N market increased by 6% compared to 2023
• 17% of the total N was protected urea in 2024 (+4% on 2023)
• There were 28,736 tonnes of phosphorus (P) applied in 2024, with applications reducing 6.6% on 2023 levels.
• 88,058 tonnes of potassium (K) were applied in 2024, which was an increase of 7.45%.

The continued decline in the use of P is a real concern for soil fertility and N use efficiency on farm. While the increase in K application is positive, Mark highlighted the importance of lime, especially as 65% of soils are deficient in lime; if lime was corrected on grazing ground there are multiple benefits.

Mark has also said that weather conditions played a huge part in poor grass growth last year and farmers should use protected urea in the year ahead. Fertiliser should be applied when ground is dry enough to travel on with tractor and spreader without causing damage. Soil temperatures should also be above 5ºC and rising and with 4-5 days of dry weather forecast, you want fertiliser and slurry to stay where you spread it.

Finally, Mark explained the benefits of using compound fertiliser based on a nutrient management plan and highlighted the importance of sulphur.

Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia, more episodes are available on the Beef Edge podcast show page.