Too much fertilizer.

The article discusses the changing fortunes of the U.S. chemical fertilizer industry as of May 1969. It states that there is a glut of fertilizers on the market, resulting in small profit margins for manufacturers. In the Midwest, late heavy snowfall further decreased the sale of fertilizers, as farmers use less when the weather is cold. It claims, however, that this situation will change due to improved production and better transportation facilities, though increased profits will not be seen till the 1971 to 1972 season.