Humic acid is a naturally occurring compound that is formed by the decomposition of dead plants and animal matter over time. It is characterized by its dark color and high molecular weight. Humic acid plays a crucial role in enhancing nutrient availability and uptake by plants. In the absence of humic acid, nutrients applied through fertilizers may become locked up in the soil or washed away, leading to nutrient deficiencies in plants. It is safe for the environment and does not harm beneficial microorganisms in the soil.
In this article, we will discuss how humic acid is a boon for sustainable agriculture and why farmers should consider using it in their farming practices.
Humus is a brown or dark brown complex organic component of soil, formed by decomposition of plant and animal matter. The formation of humus is a slow process that takes years depending on the organic matter, soil conditions and microbial activity. Humus accounts for about 60 – 80% of soil organic content.
Humic substances are components of humus which includes humic acid, fulvic acid and humin that vary depending upon molecular weight, colour and solubility in water at different pH levels. `
Humic acid and fulvic acids are the humic substances that are commercially used for soil and plant application in various forms like granules or liquid.
Humic acids are available in both liquid and granular form and hence can be applied using several methods including soil application, foliar application, seed treatment, and fertigation.
Humic acid can be added to the soil in the form of granules, powders, or liquids. They can be mixed with soil before planting or applied as top dressing after planting. It can be applied to the soil by broadcasting, banding or drenching method. Soil application can improve soil structure, water holding capacity, nutrient availability and microbial activity. It is recommended to mix humic acid with water to ensure even distribution in the soil.
Humic acid can also be applied directly to the leaves of plants through foliar spraying. Since humic acid is directly delivered to plant’s foliage in this method, it can be quickly absorbed and utilized by the plant. This can enhance nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and plant growth. It is recommended to dilute the humic acid solution with water and apply it during early morning or late afternoon. This method is particularly useful for plants that experience nutrient deficiencies.
Seed treatment using humic acid can be done to seeds before sowing. Seed treatment can increase germination rate, seedling vigor, and early plant growth. It is recommended to soak the seeds in a solution containing humic acid and water for a few hours before planting.
Humic acid can be dissolved in water and applied through irrigation water or drip system provide a continuous supply of nutrients and organic matter to the plants. Fertigation can improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce nutrient leaching. This method helps in even distribution of nutrients throughout the root zone of the plants.
The time of humic acid application may vary depending on several factors such as the crop type, growth stage, soil type, climatic conditions, and based on the need. However, it can be applied to plants at different stages of growth such as;
NOTE: The frequency of application may also depend on the specific product used. So please check the product’s description and label before use. Use only the recommended dosage.
Humic Acid Products | Method of Application | Dosage |
Multiplex Jivras | Drenching or | 5 ml/lit water |
Foliar spray | 3 – 4 ml/lit water | |
Tapas Humic Acid with Special Minerals | Drenching | 5 ml/lit water
|
HUMETSU Humic Acid | Seed treatment | 5 – 10 ml/kg of seed |
Soil drenching or | 4 – 5 ml/lit water | |
Foliar spray | 2 – 2.5 ml/lit water | |
Humesol Humic acid | Soil application | 5 ml/lit water |
Foliar spray | 2.5 ml/lit water | |
V-Hume | Drenching | 5 ml/lit water |
Hifield Organic Black Dragon Power Gel | Foliar spray or | 1 – 1.5 gm/lit water |
Drip | ||
Hifield’s Humipro 12 | Drenching or | 1 – 2 ml/lit water |
Foliar spray or | ||
Drip | ||
Farmigo Humixol-L | Seed treatment | 4 – 6 kg of seed |
Soil Application or | 1 – 2 kg per acre (Mix with manures and apply) | |
Drip | 2.5 – 5 gm/lit water | |
Anshul Humifest | Seed treatment | 100 ml/lit water |
Urea treatment or | Mix 500-1000ml on 100 kg urea (Apply after 2 hrs of treatment) | |
Fertigation or | 7.5 ml/lit water | |
Foliar spray | 3 ml/lit water |
To find more products of humic acid click here
Humic acid is a mixture of various organic compounds providing numerous benefits for agriculture. It can improve soil quality, increase nutrient availability, enhance plant growth and boost crop yield. Its natural origin and environmentally friendly properties make it a great choice for sustainable agriculture. The versatile applications of humic acid, combined with its ability to promote higher yields and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, make it an indispensable asset for agriculture. Farmers and gardeners should consider incorporating humic acid into their farming practices to reap the benefits of this natural compound.
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