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Humic and fulvic acids: differences and functions

Many biostimulant fertilizers are characterized by the presence of humic and fulvic acids. Such substances result from the extraction of fossil humus (e.g. leonardite).

The above-mentioned process results in soluble fractions with some peculiar characteristics. In particular, humic acids are big size molecules, soluble in alkaline pH water. Their higher concentration can be found in calcareous or neutral soils. On the other hand, fulvic acids are small size molecules, soluble in all pH values water.

The formulations containing the above-mentioned extracts have many common functions, such as:

1. water retention capacity, being able influence the porosity of soil;

2. high hydrophilicity (affinity with water);

3. control of thermal shocks, thanks to the ability to retain water in soil;

4. buffering power, thanks to the presence of carboxyl and phenolic groups keeping the pH values ​​stable;

5. major production of root hairs and primordia, with a consequent thickening of the vascular cylinder wall, especially in xylem;

6. high cation exchange capacity (CEC);

7. optimized nutrients absorption;

8. photosynthetic efficiency;

9. better chelation of mineral elements.

Hydro Fert offers various solutions based on humic and fulvic acids:

Hydro Humic 16 is a fluid formulation containing 10% of humic acids. When applied in fertigation: it keeps the process of mineralization under control; it prevents salts accumulation; it increases the development of root systems, seeds germination, stems, buds and leaves. In foliar application: it develops a transmitting action, making cell membrane easier to penetrate and helping the absorption and circulation of nutrients.

Hydro Humic 85 WSG is a powder formulation containing 55% of humic acids. Like its liquid equivalent (Hydro Humic 16), it can be used both in foliar application and fertigation, bringing the same benefits to crops. The product is 100% water-soluble and, thus, it does not occlude the nozzles of irrigation systems, because the particles in suspension are <100 micron. It can be mixed with NPK, DAP and urea fertilizers.

Hydro Fulvic is an acidifying liquid formulation with a high concentration of fulvic acids from leonardite. Its use in fertigation increases the development of roots systems, making plants more resistant against abiotic stress. It also stimulates germination as well as stems and leaves growth.