The Relationship between Humic Acid and Soil
There are about 4 trillion tons of humus (humic substance) on the earth and it is an important part of the soil. Humic acid is the most active component of soil humus, which plays a key role in the soil's formation, properties, and fertility. In short, the relationship between humic acid and soil is as follows,
- Active participant and promoter of soil formation.
- Mediator that restricts or promotes the migration, fixation, and leaching of soil metal ions and trace elements.
- Stabilizer of soil structure.
- The determinant of increasing soil salt-base exchange capacity.
- A natural water-retaining agent for soil.
- Protector of soil fertility and storehouse of plant nutrients.
At present, protecting humic acid and restoring soil humus layer have become one of the main goals of environmental restoration in ecologically fragile areas, and also an important task for sustainable agricultural development and a harmonious ecological environment.