Iran War Disrupts Fertilizer Supply as US Farmers Face Planting Season Shortfall

Hormuz closure has bottled up nearly 50% of global urea exports, triggering a 25-30% fertilizer price spike just as US corn planting begins. The Fertilizer Institute projects a 2 million ton urea shortfall this spring. NPR and CNN report farmers may shift acreage from corn to soybeans, which require less nitrogen fertilizer. Indiana pumpkin and Texas watermelon plantings are at risk. CNBC notes the shortage threatens Republican midterm prospects in farm states where input costs are now the top voter concern.