Humates

Humates are a complex mixture of organic compounds derived from humic substances, which are the principal organic constituents of soils, and also occur in peat, coal, and natural waters. They are formed through the decomposition of plant and animal matter by microorganisms over extended periods. Humic substances are broadly classified into humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin, based on their solubility in water and alkaline solutions. Humic acid is soluble in alkaline solutions but not in acidic solutions, while fulvic acid is soluble in both alkaline and acidic solutions. Humin is insoluble in both.

In agriculture, humates are primarily used as soil conditioners and fertilizers. They are believed to improve soil structure, increase water retention, enhance nutrient availability to plants, and stimulate microbial activity. The chelating properties of humic substances allow them to bind with essential minerals, making them more accessible for plant uptake. This can lead to improved crop yields and plant health.

Humates are found naturally in fertile soils and are also commercially extracted from sources like leonardite, a type of lignite coal. They are applied to soil in various forms, including liquid concentrates and granular products. While widely used and generally considered beneficial for soil health, ongoing research continues to explore the precise mechanisms and full range of benefits associated with humate application in different soil types and agricultural systems.