Humic and fluvic acids

[djsinseia]

Does anyone have experience with either of these products? 

The chemistry behind them seems logical but it sounds like snake oil to me.

I would think building up organic matter levels in soils would accomplish the same thing....although it may take a lifetime to do. 

I don't understand how the addition of a few pounds per acre of some of these products can replace years of soil building.

Thanks in advance.

[Jim Meade / Iowa City]

After you read this Wikipedia discussion you may still not know too much.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humic_acid

[djsinseia]

Thanks, Jim.  I had read something similar to that but I have to confess that is has been 20 some years since I took biochemistry and I need a refresher course!

Have you ever heard of this topic previous to this discussion?

[Jim Meade / Iowa City]

No, I was totally unfamiliar with this product until I saw your post.

[Pupdaddy]

Wouldn't the fact that there seems to be a lack of information and the appearance of a lot of "smoke and mirrors" in these products advertising give you some pause? If so..I think you may have figured them out.

I'll never forget the answer the salesman for a "soil conditioner" gave me when I was a young student in college..all full of chemistry and biology theories..when he said he couldn't explain it..it just works. I happened to read the label..and this company had the gall to sell a product that was mostly industrial soap, and claim that 2 oz. to the acre of it would improve your drainage. On top of that..they then had to sell you a defoamer..because the agitation in your tank would push foam right out the top if you didn't use it,LOL.

[hayseed]

An article in the www.hpj.com might be helpful. This article is written by Dr. Dan Davidson.  (3/25/11 3:41)