Fertilizer Use and Bee Decline

In Hertfordshire, England, researchers have studied the impact of fertilizer on crop yields for almost 170 years. What began as a study solely of crop yields for hay production grew into studying the impact of fertilizers on other plant species growing in the hay fields. That research has drawn clear conclusions: “Using high levels of common fertilisers on grassland halves pollinator numbers and drastically reduces the number of flowers” (The Guardian, January 20, 2025). A recent paper from the researchers reports that “increasing the amount of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus doused on agricultural grassland reduced flower numbers fivefold and halved the number of pollinating insects.” Bees saw the largest impact. In croplands where no fertilizers were used, bees were found in numbers nine times greater than they were in those fields with maximum amounts of fertilizer. Researchers also learned that fertilizers cause fast-growing grasses to proliferate, crowding out other grasses and flowers and reducing pollinator numbers.

While pollinators may not be as important for grassland crops like wheat and barley, they are essential for fruits and vegetables. And when pollinator numbers plummet due to fertilizer use in grassland crops, their numbers in neighboring fruit and vegetable areas are also likely to suffer. Ironically, to keep pollinator numbers high requires accepting a reduction in crop yields. There is a trade-off in order to maintain a strong and healthy crop ecosystem—but that trade-off is unlikely to be accepted in an economically driven society.

But are “megafarms” really ideal? The Bible suggests that after Christ returns agriculture may return to a more personal, family-oriented environment (Micah 4:4). When maximum volume and maximum profits no longer drive food production, the creation will again function as God intended. For more insight into this coming time, read or listen to The World Ahead: What Will It Be Like?