Australian growers shift to less fertiliser-intensive crops as Iran war costs surge

By Naveen ThukralSINGAPORE, April 2 (Reuters) - Australian farmers are expected to favour less nitrogen-intensive crops such as barley over wheat and canola in the upcoming season, as surging fertiliser and fuel costs driven by the Iran war weigh on planting decisions in one of the world's top food exporters.Planting of wheat, canola and other crops is set to gather pace this month across much of Australia and farmers need ample supplies of crop nutrients to support early growth.