Fertiliser prices are now double what they were this time last year as natural gas prices climb and fertiliser plants scale back production.

Tillage farmers buying nitrogen this autumn are paying double what they paid this time last year.

The nitrogen bill for 50ha of spring barley requiring 135kg N/ha has soared from approximately €4,625 last autumn to €10,000 at present.

At record highs, many fertiliser companies here in Ireland have stepped away from the market and have told the Irish Farmers Journal that prices have been withdrawn by some importers and wholesalers.

Phosphorus and potassium prices have also doubled in 12 months.