By Jennifer Whitlock
Field Editor

Retail fertilizer prices have increased sharply in recent months, leading some farmers and ranchers to seek alternate sources for fertilization.

While there are some viable alternative options, Dr. Vanessa Olson, associate professor and forage Extension specialist at Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension in Overton, said it is best to first assess actual needs.

“It’s always best to start with a soil analysis instead of just fertilizing blindly. This way, you know exactly what you need, or if you even need nitrogen, phosphorous or potassium,” she said in an interview with the Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network. “At about $12 per sample, soil analysis is very inexpensive, especially compared to the cost of fertilizer.”

In addition to nutrient analysis, AgriLife will provide fertilizer application rate recommendations based on the land’s intended use, such as grazing or hay production. Recommendations are targeted to the individual’s production systems goals and the specific forage they are growing, according to Olson.

Animal manure is a common alternate source to commercial fertilizer. In East and Central Texas, chicken manure, commonly called “chicken litter,” is readily available from broiler and layer farms.

Litter can usually be obtained inexpensively, but Olson noted costs vary depending on proximity to the source. Hauling the litter too far can add significant expense to its total cost, outweighing any price advantage over commercially available options.

While chicken litter is a good source of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, Olson said the levels are highly variable from farm to farm and even from house to house. Having the litter tested before use is a good idea to avoid over-application. AgriLife’s forage soil testing lab in College Station can test a sample to determine the exact nutrient ratio in each ton of product.

“Chicken litter, which is commonly used on hay meadows and pasture systems, is typically very high in phosphorus,” she said. “But for many of our warm-season perennial grasses grown for livestock, we don’t necessarily need a lot of phosphorus. So, farmers and ranchers should be mindful of that aspect as they consider this source.”

There’s no absolute right or wrong choice when considering fertilizer sources, but Olson said the benefits of applying commercial fertilizer sometimes outweigh the costs.

It depends on an individual’s forage production goals and how important that forage’s availability is to the overall management goals.

Forages need nutrients, whether from traditional fertilizer sources or alternatives.

“If we allow hay meadows or pastures to be depleted of nutrients and continue to harvest or graze, we’ll definitely see a shift in production as far as vegetative species,” she said. “This can lead to a reduction in grazeable area or decrease the value of hay. So long-term, it’s important to maintain nutrient status if we want persistence and production.”

Olson recommends contacting a local Extension agent or specialist.

“Often, an Extension agent or specialist like myself can help someone look at their soil analysis. Maybe you still need nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, but you can save money by reducing the total amount applied during a year when fertilizer prices are very high,” Olson said. “There are ways to be economical without skipping fertilization, and there are options. You just need to visit with someone who can help you determine what those options are and how they might best fit your production system.”

Various publications regarding forage production are available.

A Texas A&M AgriLife county Extension agent directory is also available to help Texans find the nearest agent.