Teagasc reissue nutrient and fertiliser fact sheets

The fact sheets cover soil testing, lime application, organic manures, clover, Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) fertiliser advice and protected urea

Mon, 04 May, 2026 - 13:37

Zoe Geary

The Soils, Nutrients and Fertilisers factsheets curated by Teagasc have been reissued in response to the increase in fertiliser prices.

Maximising the efficiency and return on fertiliser inputs will be a critical factor in managing farm output and margins in the year ahead.

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Teagasc have created a compilation of 20 fact sheets to provide the latest technical advice. The fact sheets cover soil testing, lime application, organic manures, clover, Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) fertiliser advice and protected urea.

There are also detailed enterprise fact sheets with practical advice for farmers with cattle, sheep, dairy and tillage businesses. The importance of growing enough grass this year and securing enough fodder for next winter is also addressed in individual factsheets.

Teagasc director, Professor Frank O'Mara, said: “Teagasc is encouraging farmers to prioritise nutrient management planning, make lime application a priority, make best use of organic manures, and increase the incorporation of clover in swards to help reduce reliance on chemical N.

"Our advisory team will continue to provide the expertise and support needed to help farmers respond to the current fertiliser market and make well-informed decisions.”

Head of the Knowledge Transfer Programme in Teagasc, Stan Lalor, said: “Right now, many farmers are coming into Teagasc offices for derogation and BISS (Basic Income Support for Sustainability) consultations. Take the time during this visit to get your soil analysis interpreted so that you know best how to efficiently use lime, fertiliser and organic manure."

He explained that farms should devise a cost-effective shopping list as part of a nutrient management plan for the farm which will be critical for 2026.

Decisions around application timing, appropriate rates, and the selection of chemical fertilisers and organic manures also play a key role in farm profitability.

Mr Lalor said: “Careful use of nutrients is a ‘win-win’ as it can also help to reduce the risk of greenhouse gas emissions and limit nutrient losses to water.”

The fact sheets are available for all farmers and agri-professionals to view and download on the Teagasc website.