From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Phoenix, AZ

So what is the deal here? Doesn't our OM eventually decompose into HA anyway and if so, then why add more? why not just add more OM and let it decompose?

I guess the big riddle is what % of our OM eventually turns into HA? Let me theorize: 1000 SF at 10% OM say decomposes into 0.1% (all of which is HA). This is a 100:1 ratio. Based on estimated weight of soil, the 1000 SF would be approximately 100,000 lb at 12-14" depth (close enough). Calculating out expected HA, this would be 100 lb.

If my calc's are right, will adding 20-50 lb/1000 SF really matter?

I am interested in HA but am wary of such things and would like to be proven wrong...proven not told.

5/15/2007 11:49:16 PM

Find a lab that tests for humus,,then spend some time on the phone with the agronomist. Soil types are different in what they require for OM,,the age of that OM is a key. Simple math doesn't apply across the board on this one.

Use the search feature and look for posts b4 Nov '06,,a fellow named Gipe has put some good info up on HA for a few years.

Always good to be wary of "bandwagons" IMO

5/16/2007 9:33:27 AM

Sheridan . NY

humic acid --AGRO-K has been helping make H A with ground bio helper Symbex for lot of years-- thats why it in the feeding program----yep

5/16/2007 10:25:00 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

Humic Acid takes thousands of years to form. We often read "Percent Organic Matter" on a soil test & fail to consider the age of the "material" that is burned off on ignition. A humic/fulvic acid test is quite different than a simple ignition test.

5/16/2007 10:39:47 AM

San Diego, Ca.

I'm no expert on HA but for something that is organically derived and in the amount that is recommended (1-2lbs per 100sqft) I tend to think it wouldn't hurt to try it. I like some of the other things that are claimed to be benefits of its use especially concerning pH and leaching of salts.
I am using it this year on the pumpkins and also on my tomatoes and so far the tomato plants are the best looking plants I have had in several years so I am eagerly waiting to see how the pumpkins respond to it.

5/18/2007 1:11:03 AM