Humic substances and the potential of their use in agriculture

Abstract

Most important properties of the major soil and peat organic component – humic substances have been compared, depending on their origin, including the isolation, basic properties, and recent concepts about the structure of humic substances. The influence of humic substances on plant growth has been re-assessed in light of the growing use of humic products in agriculture, and the most prospective areas for humus application have been evaluated. The properties of humic substances possibly influencing their impact on plant growth and, in general, their role in the environment have been analysed. Peat humic substances have substantial potential for use in agriculture.