When farmers think about increasing crop yields and making their soil healthier, fertilizers are the first solution they consider. But, overusing traditional fertilizers can lead to nutrient imbalances, where excess essential minerals eventually leach from the soil. It’s all too common to overlook the robust biological processes that affect our seeds right from the start.
If you’re tired of throwing time and money away, it may be time to look into humic acid, a powerful soil amendment. Read on with Norstar Agriculture as we explore our top six humic acid benefits.
- A Naturally Occurring Solution
Humic acid, along with fulvic acid, derives from organic sedimentation. Over hundreds of years, organisms break down organic matter as part of humification. Eventually, humic-rich materials like leonardite are formed–and used widely in agriculture. Humic acid’s benefits lie in its naturally organic composition. It can be applied to farmland without worrying about soil toxicity.
- Less Fertilizer Use
Humic acid isn’t used as a standalone. It’s a complementary soil amendment that increases nutrient absorption in the soil. As such, it boosts fertilizer efficiency by reducing fertilizer leaching as crops grow. This synergy is a key humic acid benefit, with some studies finding it reduces fertilizer and pesticide use by up to 30%.
- Increased Microbial Activity
One of the most notable humic acid benefits is its role as a catalyst for microbial soil activity. Healthy soil contains live microbes that ensure optimal crop processes. For example, mycorrhizal fungi are a key organism that works to increase nutrient absorption beyond the roots. These fungi, along with other microbes, work together to increase nutrient uptake—ultimately increasing crop biomass.
- Better Soil Structure
The power of humic acid is more than just on a molecular level—it also promotes soil aggregation. This essential humic acid benefit comes from its ability to bind to positively charged ions found in soil. These bound ions ultimately improve porosity and aeration. This process provides tightly compacted and loose soil a healthy, strong structure—ultimately leading to less soil erosion.
- Increased Nutrient Availability
Micronutrients are essential for healthier, quicker crop growth. But, some soil has an abundance of specific ions, like hydroxide, that make nutrient absorption difficult. Humic acid can chelate these nutrients, such as iron and magnesium, binding and protecting them. The result is more nutrient availability, making it simple for crops to perform essential functions.
Humic acid is especially beneficial for highly saline soil, buffering excess sodium ions.
- Better Germination
Humic acid is most effective when applied in-furrow—meaning directly alongside the seed during planting. This method lays the foundation for substantial early root growth. Ensuring proper germination sets the stage for the rest of the growing season. In fact, some farmers using humic acid have reported yield increases of up to 70% in some cases.
Enhance Your Soil Health with Norstar
If you’re interested in seeing these humic acid benefits for yourself, Norstar Agriculture offers our comprehensive NOR-Hum soil amendment. NOR-Hum has all the capabilities of humic acid, but humin-free. So you can experience the power of humic acid without worrying about clogged pipes or nozzles.
At Norstar Agriculture, we bring concrete, comprehensive solutions to aid farmers all over the Canadian prairies. Our team of agronomists have tested over 47,000 acres of farmland—and counting! We’re here to help you with crop monitoring and management, ultimately getting you formative bottom-line results.
Contact us today to book your appointment and get one step closer to field productivity like never before.
