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Are humates good soil amendments?

Last Updated: January 21, 2009

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Studies of humic acid extracts from lenoardite (soft coal) and peat sometimes report positive effects on plant growth and nutrient acquisition particularly when work is done in hydroponic culture or foliar feeding techniques are used. Many studies show little or no benefit when humates are applied to the field at recommended rates.The relative costs of these materials should be compared against other strategies to improve active organic matter or increase micronutrient availability.

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