Humates are carbon-rich compounds derived from prehistoric organic matter.
When applied to soils, they increase cation exchange capacity, improving nutrient retention and reducing leaching. They also feed soil microbes, acting as a “superfood” for beneficial fungi and bacteria that drive nutrient cycling.
Over time, humates build stable organic matter, improve soil structure, and enhance water-holding capacity, all critical for long-term soil resilience.
“Many growers talk to us about the need to improve nutrient efficiency, getting more from what they already apply and how to build soil health for long-term productivity rather than relying on short-term fixes,” said Julia Uffindell from New Zealand Humates Ltd.
“In our view, the most effective solutions are those that balance productivity with sustainability. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but combining conventional fertilisers with humate-based products offers a practical, scalable way to get better results with fewer losses across a wide range of soil types.”
New Zealand Humates has focused on ensuring growers understand how to achieve the best results from its products by providing practical advice and making it easy to integrate products into existing fertiliser programs.
“The more people know how humates work, the more value they’ll see in their soils and crops.”
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