Florida citrus farmer struggles as fertilizer prices surge amid industry crisis

DESOTO COUNTY, Fla. (WINK)— A new survey finds most American farmers can't afford all the fertilizer they need.

The American Farm Bureau says the war in Iran is increasing the cost of fertilizer.

V.C. Hollingsworth, a farmer with 65 years of experience, has faced a historic freeze and a historic drought. Now, he's dealing with another challenge.

The American Farm Bureau survey finds 70% of U.S. farmers say they can't afford all of the fertilizer they need.

Gene McAvoy, an agriculture consultant and former University of Florida professor, wasn't surprised by the findings.

McAvoy says the war in Iran is driving up diesel prices and fertilizer costs.Hollingsworth says fertilizer prices have increased significantly.

"It's up 30% and it changes every week," Hollingsworth said.

Higher prices are forcing Hollingsworth to cut production at a critical time for the industry. Hurricanes and diseases like greening have devastated the citrus industry.

"The whole industry is at a place to where they don't know where they're going," Hollingsworth said.

A Florida TaxWatch report finds the state's citrus production has shrunk 90% over the last 20 years. Higher costs for farmers could mean higher costs at the grocery store.

"The cost of production, the cost of food is going to rise accordingly," McAvoy said.

The uncertainty leaves farmers like Hollingsworth unsure about the future.

"I don't know what's going to happen," Hollingsworth said.