Humic and Fulvic Acids: Modern Agriculture | Aiva Fertiliser

Unlocking the secrets of humic and fulvic acids has become a game-changer for growers around the world. The benefits of incorporating them are undeniable. Understanding the potential of humic and fulvic acids is an essential step towards sustainable and successful cultivation. So, let’s dive into the extraordinary world of humic and fulvic acids and unleash the potential they hold for modern agriculture.

Understanding the role of humic and fulvic acids in soil fertility

Humic and fulvic acids play a crucial role in soil fertility. These organic compounds are formed through the decomposition of plant and animal matter over thousands of years. They are abundant in humus, the dark organic material that gives soil its richness and fertility.

Humic acids are the larger molecules that make up the bulk of humic substances. They are responsible for improving soil structure, water holding capacity, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). Humic acids act as a sponge, with humus holding 4 parts water for every 1 part humus. They also stabilise nutrients, releasing them slowly over time, ensuring that plants have a steady supply of vital elements.

Fulvic acids, on the other hand, are smaller molecules that have a higher degree of solubility. They are excellent chelating agents, meaning they can bind to nutrients and make them more available to plants. Fulvic acids also have the ability to enhance nutrient uptake by increasing the permeability of plant cell membranes. This results in improved nutrient absorption and utilisation by plants.

In summary, humic and fulvic acids work together to improve soil fertility by moderating water retention, enhancing nutrient availability, improving soil structure, and promoting beneficial microbial activity. These compounds create an optimal environment for plant growth and contribute to overall soil health.

Benefits of using humic and fulvic acids with Aiva Foliar Fertilisers.

The benefits of incorporating humic and fulvic acids into agricultural practices are numerous and far-reaching. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:

1. Enhanced Nutrient Availability: Humic and fulvic acids improve the availability of essential nutrients to plants. They chelate minerals, making them more soluble and easily absorbed by plant roots. This leads to increased nutrient uptake and utilisation, resulting in healthier and more productive crops. Previous studies have suggested the increase could be anywhere from 20-80% depending on the nutrient.

2. Improved Soil Structure: Humic and fulvic acids have a positive impact on soil structure. They bind soil particles together, creating aggregates that improve soil porosity and aeration. This allows for better water infiltration and root penetration, leading to healthier root systems and improved plant growth.

3. Increased Water Retention: The water-holding capacity of soil is crucial for plant growth, especially in drought-prone areas. Humic and fulvic acids have the ability to absorb and retain water, reducing water loss through evaporation and improving overall soil moisture levels. This helps plants withstand dry periods and reduces the need for frequent irrigation.

4. Enhanced Plant Resilience: Humic and fulvic acids play a vital role in strengthening plant defences against environmental stressors. They stimulate the production of stress-related proteins and antioxidants, which help plants cope with adverse conditions such as high temperatures, drought, and disease pressure. This leads to improved plant resilience and higher crop yields.

5. Promotion of Beneficial Microbes: Humic and fulvic acids create an ideal environment for beneficial soil microbes. They provide a food source for beneficial bacteria and fungi, promoting their growth and activity. These microbes play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and overall soil health.

The benefits of using humic and fulvic acids in agriculture are not limited to the points mentioned above. Farmers around the world have reported increased crop yields, improved plant health, and reduced reliance on synthetic fertilisers and pesticides.

Aiva Foliar Application for humic and fulvic acids.

The application of humic and fulvic acids in farming can vary depending on the specific needs of the crops and soil conditions. 

Our foliar spraying application involves applying nutrients directly to the leaves of the crop. This method is particularly useful when rapid nutrient uptake is required or when soil conditions limit nutrient availability. Foliar application can also help improve plant resilience and reduce the incidence of foliar diseases.

It’s important to note that the application rates and frequency of humic and fulvic acids may vary depending on factors such as soil type, crop type, and specific product recommendations. It’s always recommended to discuss with our crop nutrition consultants for personalised advice.

Success stories of using humic and fulvic acids in agriculture

We have worked parallel with some great farms in the UK and Europe. Here is an example of a successful trial use of humic and fulvic acids in agriculture.

N32 + NURTURE N treatment: 29% less N applied alongside 2.5% inclusion rate of NURTURE N™ yielded £116.31/ha increased margin @ 10/23 wheat prices (£180.00/T).

This demonstrates the potential of humic and fulvic acids to transform agricultural practices and achieve sustainable and profitable outcomes. The success stories from different regions and crops highlight the versatility and effectiveness of these substances in diverse farming scenarios.

Since Aiva Fertiliser has released their Nurture N product, we have used it religiously. This is not only with every glyphosate application, to repair damage caused to the soil’s bacteria by herbicides, but to also feed the bacteria in the soil during most other spray applications as well. As a natural farmer this makes a lot of sense, regenerate and restore.

Jack Martin, JC & KJ Martin & Son

Potential challenges and limitations of using humic and fulvic acids

While the benefits of humic and fulvic acids in agriculture are significant, there are a few potential challenges and limitations to consider:

1. Compatibility with Other Inputs: Humic and fulvic acids can interact with other inputs such as fertilisers, pesticides, and soil amendments. It’s important to consider the compatibility of these substances to avoid any adverse reactions or reduced effectiveness. Consulting with our specialists can help determine the compatibility of different inputs.

2. Application Timing and Frequency: The timing and frequency of humic and fulvic acid applications can impact their effectiveness. It’s essential to consider the specific needs of the crops and the soil conditions when determining the application schedule. Over-application or improper timing may lead to reduced benefits or unnecessary costs.

Despite these challenges, the overall benefits of using humic and fulvic acids outweigh the potential limitations. With proper understanding, careful selection of products, and diligent application practices, farmers can harness the power of these substances to achieve sustainable and profitable agriculture.

Comparing humic and fulvic acids with other soil amendments

Humic and fulvic acids are often compared to other soil amendments due to their similar benefits and functions. Let’s take a closer look at how these substances compare to some common soil amendments:

1. Compost: Compost is a popular soil amendment that improves soil structure and adds organic matter to the soil. While both humic and fulvic acids are present in compost, their concentrations may vary depending on the composting process and feedstock used. Humic and fulvic acids offer the advantage of concentrated nutrient availability and faster nutrient uptake compared to compost.

2. Manure: Manure is another organic amendment that provides nutrients and improves soil fertility. However, the nutrient content and composition of manure can vary depending on the animal species, diet, and management practices. Humic and fulvic acids offer a more consistent and concentrated source of nutrients, allowing for precise nutrient management.

3. Synthetic Fertilisers: Synthetic fertilisers are widely used to provide specific nutrients to plants. While these fertilisers can deliver nutrients rapidly, they may also lead to nutrient imbalances, soil acidification, and environmental concerns. Humic and fulvic acids, on the other hand, improve nutrient availability and uptake while promoting soil health and reducing the reliance on synthetic inputs.

4. Biochar: Biochar is a carbon-rich soil amendment produced through the pyrolysis of biomass. It enhances soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. Humic and fulvic acids, when used in conjunction with biochar, can further enhance nutrient availability and improve soil microbial activity, resulting in more productive and resilient soils.

It’s important to note that each soil amendment has its unique advantages and considerations. Integrating multiple amendments and tailoring their use to specific soil and crop requirements can maximise the benefits and create a balanced and sustainable farming system.

Conclusion: Harnessing the power of humic and fulvic acids for sustainable agriculture

Humic and fulvic acids have emerged as the powerhouses of modern agriculture, revolutionising farming practices and promoting sustainable growth. These organic compounds offer a multitude of benefits, including enhanced nutrient availability, improved soil structure, and increased plant resilience.

By understanding the role of humic and fulvic acids in soil fertility, farmers can unlock their potential and achieve higher yields and superior crop quality.  While there may be challenges and limitations associated with using humic and fulvic acids, the overall benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks. By choosing high-quality products, carefully considering application methods, and optimising their use in conjunction with other soil amendments, farmers can harness the power of humic and fulvic acids to achieve sustainable and successful agriculture.

As we continue to explore the extraordinary world of humic and fulvic acids, it’s clear that these substances hold immense potential for modern agriculture. Whether you’re a large-scale farmer or a small-scale gardener, incorporating humic and fulvic acids into your cultivation practices can pave the way for a greener, more productive, and sustainable future.