Are Humate and Humic Acid the Same Thing or Different?

You may wonder, are humate and humic acid the same thing? They are not. When you choose soil amendments, this difference matters. Humate and humic acid affect your soil and plants in unique ways. Farmers and gardeners often see better results when they know which product to use. Your crops and garden can benefit from the right choice.

Key Takeaways

• Humic acid and humate come from the same natural things, but they are not the same. They have different forms and uses. Humic acid is an acid that can dissolve in alkaline liquids. It helps soil get healthier and helps plants take in nutrients. Humate is a salt made by mixing humic acid with minerals like potassium or sodium. Humate is often easier to dissolve and use. Both humic acid and humate help soil keep water and nutrients. They also help good microbes grow and make plant roots stronger. Pick humic acid if you want to improve soil for a long time. Pick humate if you want nutrients to work faster and want something easy to use. Always read the product label to know what form you have, where it comes from, and how to use it. Watch out for ads that make big claims without proof. Look for products that are certified and have lab test results. Use the right kind and amount of humic acid or humate for your soil, your crops, and your goals.

Are Humate and Humic Acid the Same Thing?

Definitions

You might wonder if humate and humic acid are the same. In soil science, these words mean different things. Humic substances are a big part of what makes up soil organic matter. Scientists split them into three groups: humic acid, fulvic acid, and humin. Each group has its own special features.

The table below explains what each term means:

Humic acid is a certain part of humic substances. It can dissolve in alkaline liquids but not in acids. Humate means the salts or extracts that come from humic acid, often after mixing with minerals like potassium or sodium.

Relationship

People sometimes mix up these words. Are humate and humic acid the same? They are very close, but not exactly the same. Humic acid is the main material. When you mix humic acid with minerals, you get humate. For example, potassium humate is made from humic acid and potassium. Both come from old plant and animal matter breaking down.

Many products use "humic" in their names. This can make it confusing to know what you are buying. Some labels say "humic acid" when it is really a humate salt. Others use "humate" for any humic material, even if it is not a true salt. This confusion makes people ask, are humate and humic acid the same thing?

Tip: Always read the product label to see what form and source it has. Knowing this helps you pick the right soil amendment.

Key Points

• Are humate and humic acid the same? No, but they are closely linked.

• Humic acid is a part of humic substances. It dissolves in alkali but not in acid.

• Humate means the salts or extracts made from humic acid, often with minerals.

• Both help soil, but their forms and uses are not the same.

• You need to know these differences to pick the best one for your plants.

Here is a quick chart to help you remember:

If you ask, are humate and humic acid the same thing? Remember they come from the same place but have different forms and jobs. Knowing these facts helps you choose the best one for your soil and plants.

Humic Acid and Humate Explained

What Is Humic Acid?

Humic acid is found in the dark, rich part of the soil. It forms when plants and animals break down over time. This process turns them into organic matter. Scientists say humic acid is a big, complex molecule. It is made mostly of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulfur. These molecules have many carbon rings and lots of acidic groups. They can dissolve in water if the water is alkaline.

• Humic acid has a lot of aromatic rings.

• Its molecular weight is between 50,000 and 100,000 Daltons.

• The chemical makeup changes with the source and how it breaks down.

• Humic acid is not just one thing but a mix of many molecules.

Humic acid is an important part of humic substances. It helps soil keep water and nutrients. This makes it good for plant growth.

What Is Humate?

Humate means the salts or extracts from humic acid. When you mix humic acid with minerals like potassium or sodium, you get humate. These salts are a lot like humic acid. They usually dissolve better in water. You can find humate in products called potassium humate or sodium humate.

• Humate is part of the humate group in organic matter.

• It keeps the good things from humic acid but is easier to use.

• Humate products can be granules, powders, or liquids.

People use humate to make soil better. It helps plants take up nutrients and grow strong roots. The humate part in soil holds nutrients and water for plants.

How They Are Made

Humic acid and humate come from natural things full of organic matter. The main sources are leonardite, peat, composted plants, and animal manures. Leonardite is special because it has a lot of humic acids and is easy to use.

Making these products takes a few steps:

1. Pick a raw material like leonardite or lignite and let it oxidize.

2. Crush the material into a fine powder.

3. Use an alkaline solution like potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide to extract humic acid or humate.

4. Filter and acidify the solution to get humic acid, or keep it alkaline to make humate salts.

Note: New methods use ultrasound or microwaves to help get more product. Some companies use microbes or fungi to make humic products.

Potassium humate is popular with farmers because it meets rules and dissolves well in water. The source and how it is made change the quality and how it works in soil.

Practical Differences

Forms and Solubility

Humic acid and humate come in different forms. Humic acid is often a powder or a liquid. Humate is usually found as granules or a thick liquid. How well they dissolve in water depends on their chemistry and how you use them.

• Wet humic acid dissolves fast when washed with water. If you dry it, it does not dissolve as well unless freeze-dried.

• Humic acid only fully dissolves if the pH is 9 or higher. At lower pH, it does not dissolve well and can clump up.

• The amount of minerals, called ash, changes how well they dissolve. More ash means they do not dissolve as much.

• Humic acid molecules change shape at different pH levels. This changes how they mix with water and soil.

Granular humate dissolves better in water than dried humic acid. This makes it easy to use for many soil jobs. Some products, like potassium humate, mix well with water and are simple to use.

Note: The form and how well these products dissolve can change how fast they work in your soil.

Application Methods

There are many ways to use humic acid and humate on soil and plants. The way you use them depends on your goal and the product type.

1. Pre-Planting: Mix small humate pieces into soil before planting. Use 1-2 pounds for every 1,000 square feet. Work it into the top 6-8 inches.

2. Side Dressing: During the season, put 1-2 tablespoons around each plant. Mix it into the soil and water well.

3. Foliar Spray: Mix 1-2 teaspoons in a gallon of water. Spray it on leaves for quick nutrients.

4. Compost Addition: Add 1-2 cups for each cubic yard of compost. Mix well to help nutrients and microbes.

5. Top Dressing: For lawns, use 1-2 pounds per 1,000 square feet. For flower beds, use 1-2 pounds per 100 square feet and water after.

Granular humate is good for putting straight into soil, especially when planting. Liquid types are easy to use with watering cans or in potting soil. You can also mix humic acid with compost to help plants and soil.

Tip: Always read the label for the best results. Change the amount you use for your crop and soil.

Results in Soil

Adding humic acid or humate helps plants and soil. These products help soil hold more water and heat. They also help soil particles stick together, so roots grow better.

• Humic substances help good microbes in soil work harder. This helps plants get more nutrients.

• Humic acid joins with nutrients like phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. This makes these nutrients easier for plants to use.

• Using humic substances can cut ammonia loss from fertilizer by up to 25%. This means you get more from your fertilizer.

• Plants with humic acid often have greener leaves, grow taller, and give more crops. These effects are stronger in loamy sand than in sandy soils.

• Humic substances help plants grow strong roots and healthy seedlings. They also help good bacteria and balance plant hormones.

You may see greener leaves, better roots, and more crops when you use these products. Mixing humic acid or humate with nitrogen fertilizer can make your fertilizer work better and help the environment.

Uses in Agriculture

Soil Conditioning

Humic acid and humate help soil in many ways. They let soil hold more water and nutrients. These substances can act like plant hormones. This means they help plants grow faster. They also make soil better for helpful microbes. More microbes means more life in the soil. Microbes break down old plant and animal matter. This makes soil softer and easier for roots to grow. When you use extracted humic acids or humate, you change the soil’s pH. The soil can hold nutrients longer. Plants get more food this way. A study from Texas A&M AgriLife Research showed these products help plants in dry times. They keep water in the soil and help roots grow strong. Over time, you will see better soil health. This is most true in poor or low-organic soils.

Tip: Healthy soil gives you stronger plants and more crops. Using humic substances often makes your soil better each year.

Plant Benefits

Plants get many good things from humic acid and humate. These substances help roots grow deeper and branch out more. This helps plants find water and food even when it is hard. Humic acid and humate help plants use nutrients better. They also bring more good microbes to the roots. These microbes help plants get nitrogen and other nutrients. For example, potassium humate with certain bacteria makes more nodules on legume roots. This gives plants more nitrogen in their shoots. All these things help plants grow bigger and give more crops. Plants also handle stress, bugs, and sickness better.

Product Types

There are many products with humic acid or humate. These come in different forms for different needs. The most common types are potassium humate, sodium humate, and ammonium humate. Each type helps soil and plants in its own way.

• Potassium humate: Adds potassium and helps soil structure.

• Sodium humate: Used for farming, animal feed, and waste clean-up.

• Ammonium humate: Gives plants more nitrogen.

You can also find humic acids in soil mixes, liquid plant food, and granules. Some products are for lawns, gardens, or even animals. Some are made for poor soils, golf courses, or special planting jobs.

Note: Always read the label to see if it has extracted humic acids or humate. Pick the right type for your soil and plants to get the best results.

Common Confusions

Potassium Humate vs. Humic Acid

You might notice both potassium humate and humic acid on labels. These two are different, even though they come from humic substances. Potassium humate is made by mixing humic acid with potassium hydroxide. This step changes how the product works.

Here is a table to help you compare them:

Potassium humate mixes well with water. You can use it in irrigation or spray it on leaves. It gives plants potassium and humic substances fast. Humic acid is best for making soil better. It helps soil hold water and nutrients. If your plants need more potassium, pick potassium humate. For healthy soil, humic acid is a good choice.

Sodium Humate

Sodium humate is another product you might see. People make sodium humate from coal that has lots of humic acid. This makes a black powder with active groups like hydroxyl, quinone, and carboxyl. Sodium humate helps soil structure and makes soil more fertile. It also helps plants use nitrogen and phosphorus better.

• Sodium humate lowers ammonia loss from fertilizers.

• It helps plants get phosphorus by stopping it from sticking in soil.

• It grabs trace elements, so roots can take them up easier.

• It helps roots grow and makes crops better.

• Sodium humate can also work with pesticides to make them safer and stronger.

You will find sodium humate in fertilizers or as a soil helper for crops that need more nutrients.

Fulvic Acid

Fulvic acids are another part of humic substances. They are smaller than humic acid or humate. Fulvic acids have more oxygen groups, so they dissolve in water at any pH. This helps them move easily in soil and into plants.

Fulvic acids move fast through soil and into plants. They carry nutrients, so plants get food quickly. Humic acid and humate are bigger and stay in soil longer. They help soil hold together and keep nutrients in place. Fulvic acids are best when plants need nutrients fast, like during stress.

Tip: For quick nutrients, pick products with fulvic acids. For long-term soil health, use humic acid or potassium humate.

Marketing Myths

When you shop for humic acid or humate, you may see big claims. Some companies use tricks to make their products look better. You need to know what is true and what is not. This helps you pick the right product for your soil and plants.

Many products say they have lots of humic or fulvic acid. These numbers sound great, but most companies do not show real proof. You should look for products with test results from trusted labs. If a company cannot show this, you might not get what you paid for.

You will also see "fulvic acid" on many labels. This term can be confusing. Only hydrophobic fulvic acids tested by the HPTA method have an official meaning. Many companies use "fulvic acid" for any yellowish extract, even if it is not real fulvic acid. This can trick you about what you are buying.

Another myth is that all humic products are "organic." Some companies use this word to get more buyers. In truth, only products that follow the National Organic Program rules can use the "organic" label. If you want a real organic product, check for NOP certification on the label.

There is also no standard way to test humic or fulvic acid outside the HPTA method. This means numbers on labels can be very different. Some companies use old or unproven tests, which can give wrong results. Always look for products that mention HPTA certification or use trusted testing methods.

Here are some common marketing myths to watch for:

• Companies say their product has very high humic or fulvic acid without proof.

• The word "fulvic acid" is often used wrong and does not always mean the real thing.

• There is no standard test for humic or fulvic acid outside the HPTA method.

• Some products use "organic" without following the rules.

• Real claims should have proof from science and groups like HPTA.

Tip: Always read the label closely. Pick products with real certifications and clear test results. If you see big promises with no proof, be careful.

When you know these marketing myths, you can make better choices for your garden or farm. You will get the results you want and not waste money on products that do not work.

Choosing the Right Product

Reading Labels

When you pick a humic acid or humate product, always check the label first. The label tells you what is inside and how to use it safely. Look for these things:

• Product name and what is active inside

• How much to use for each crop or soil

• Safety steps and how to handle it

• How to store and throw it away

• Who made it and where to find safety sheets (SDS)

• Quality rules, like how much humic and fulvic acid it has

• If it works with other fertilizers or chemicals

• Notes about keeping the environment safe

A good label helps you use the product the right way. It keeps your plants and soil safe. If a product does not have clear rules or safety tips, pick a different brand. Good companies show lab test results and follow quality rules. You should also look for badges like OMRI or ISO. These show the product is safe for organic farms and meets high standards.

Matching to Needs

You need to pick the right product for your soil and crops. Different types of humic acid and humate work best in certain ways. For example, Humic DG granules work well with air seeders. These granules put nutrients close to the seeds. This helps the soil hold water, roots grow, and plants take up food.

• Use granules for in-furrow or sideband use. They give up to six times more humic acid than liquids for the same price.

• Pick potassium humate if you want to make soil better fast or mix it with other plant food.

• Use liquid humic acid for spraying on leaves. This helps plants get food through their leaves and can help them make more energy.

• If your soil has heavy metals or needs fast breakdown of old matter, potassium humate can help fix the soil and cut down on chemical fertilizers.

Humic acid and humate also help plants when there is salt, heat, or pH changes. They help good bacteria in the soil, which protect roots and help plants use food better. Always use the amount the label says. Too much can slow plant growth.

Tips

You can make a smart choice by following these expert tips when picking humic acid or humate:

1. Check the company. Pick brands with a good history and clear answers.

2. Ask for lab test papers. Make sure the product is pure and has enough humic or fulvic acid.

3. Look at the product. Good humic products are dark brown or black, feel fine, dissolve well, and smell earthy.

4. Check for badges like OMRI, ISO, or Ecocert.

5. Try a small amount in your soil before buying a lot.

6. Watch out for problems: very cheap prices, no test papers, no badges, or bad reviews.

7. Ask for stories or proof from other buyers.

8. Stay in touch with your supplier to make sure the product keeps working.

Tip: Good humic acid or humate costs more, but it works better and is safer. Always check where it comes from, how pure it is, and if it is active. Products from leonardite often have more humic acid and work better.

You can also compare prices using this table:

Picking the right product helps your soil and crops do their best. Take your time, read the label, and use these tips to make the best choice for your farm or garden.

You now understand the key differences between humate and humic acid. Both products support healthy soil and plant growth, but each works in its own way. Always check product labels before you buy. Match your choice to your crop needs and growing goals. When you use these amendments correctly, you help your plants thrive and improve your results every season.

FAQ

What is the main difference between humic acid and humate?

Humic acid is the acid form found in soil. Humate is the salt form, usually mixed with minerals like potassium or sodium. You use humic acid for soil health. You use humate for easier application and faster results.

Can you use humic acid and humate together?

Yes, you can use both together. They work well as a team. Humic acid improves soil structure. Humate helps nutrients move to plant roots. You get better results when you combine them.

Is humate safe for all plants?

You can use humate on most plants, including vegetables, lawns, and trees. Always follow the label instructions. Using too much can harm sensitive plants. Start with a small amount if you are unsure.

How do you store humic acid and humate products?

Store these products in a cool, dry place. Keep them away from sunlight and moisture. Seal the container tightly after each use. Proper storage keeps the product fresh and effective.

Does humic acid change soil pH?

Humic acid can buffer soil pH. It helps keep the pH stable, especially in soils that swing between acidic and alkaline. You should test your soil before and after use to track any changes.

How fast will you see results after applying humic acid or humate?

You may notice healthier plants and better soil within a few weeks. Root growth and color improve first. Full benefits, like higher yields, may take a season. Results depend on your soil and crop type.

Can you mix humic acid or humate with fertilizers?

Yes, you can mix them with most fertilizers. They help plants use nutrients better. Always check the label for compatibility. Some fertilizers may not mix well with certain humic products.

What is the best time to apply humic acid or humate?

Apply these products at planting, during early growth, or after stress events. Early application helps roots grow strong. You can also use them during the growing season for extra support.

See Also

Exploring Mineral Humic Acid And Its Unique Properties

Key Differences Between Humic Acid And Fulvic Acid Explained

Comparing Sodium Humate And Potassium Humate Benefits

Common Mistakes When Using Humic Acid Fertilizers

What To Know About Humic Acid And Amino Acid Fertilizers