Humusaineet

Humusaineet, also known as humic substances, are a complex mixture of organic compounds found in soil, peat, and other natural environments. They are the decomposed remains of plant and animal matter, transformed by microbial activity over long periods. Humusaineet are generally classified into three main fractions: humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin. Humic acid and fulvic acid are soluble in alkaline solutions, while humin is insoluble in both alkaline and acidic solutions.

These substances play a crucial role in soil health and plant growth. They improve soil structure by binding soil particles together, which enhances water infiltration and aeration. Humusaineet also increase the soil's cation exchange capacity, meaning it can hold onto essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, making them available for plant uptake. Furthermore, they can chelate (bind to) micronutrients, preventing them from becoming unavailable to plants.

Beyond their direct effects on soil and plants, humusaineet can also influence the environment by sorbing (adsorbing and absorbing) pollutants and heavy metals, thereby reducing their mobility and potential toxicity. Their dark color also contributes to warming the soil, which can be beneficial in colder climates. The study of humusaineet is an important aspect of soil science and environmental chemistry.