Ok, good job on the humic acid video. After I unload the product I have sitting here, I can’t find the reason why I would buy any more of it. Can you do a video whether Biochar is a scam? This product seems to be picking up more interest but there is some skepticism out there as well.
Biochar is not a scam but I think many products touting the benefits are not economically feasible. Most studies showing benefits start out at 2-4 tons of biochar per acre before showing even a threshold of a benefit, which translates to about 100-200 lbs per 1000 sq ft. Many of these products are at most 30% biochar so you would need to apply over 600 lbs of product per 1000 sq ft to make a difference. Most of these products are 40 lbs bags at $40 a pop so 12 bags per 1000 which is about $480 per 1000 sq ft. I would say if you are starting a new lawn, can get some in bulk and have it tilled into your soil.... go for it, but it's going to take 6 years of bi-yearly miramichi green apps to even hit the threshold of where biochar is beneficial. I do see a benefit when using biochar with chicken manure because chicken manure stinks to high hell and stinks for a while. When its micronized within biochar one watering is all it takes to get rid of the smell. I do think its useful as a filler, smell reducer in the case of composts and it has sort of a slow release mechanism built in naturally. But as far as the biochar itself 'amending' soil in some of these products I would say its not practical. Humachar? Colossal waste of money. Manures + biochar? Sure if the cost isn't much more than the manure itself, but don't expect any long term benefits from the biochar there just isn't enough of it.
@@gangstarib It's a scam. You don't need it and wont see any benefits from it. mulching your lawn will do a better job and restoring nutrients and cost you nothing.
Well why leave it up to me whether it is a scam? That is why I came to you. You have gone through the studies and you are considerably more experienced than I so you should be drawing the conclusion in your opinion. What do you think? Do you think it is a scam? That is the whole point to me listening to you.
This actually blew my mind! It is so nice to hear that very specific research has been done in recent years on this topic. I have tried for so long to find conclusive evidence and everything that you referenced makes sense. It goes back to one particular fact, soil health and soil biology is wonderfully complex!
Three years ago when humic became main stream on the tubes people would comment, “It takes years for the benefits of using humic.” Today, those same exact people became video makers on youtube, and state how green their lawns became just after one application of humic. Pitiful.
I inherited a lawn that had soil hard as a rock. Monthly apps of humic acid for close to a year. By the next season I was able to easily stick a soil probe in the ground with almost no resistance. No mechanical aeration was used.
@@TheGrassFactor Thanks brother. This is good info for my seeding project. I was toying with the idea of order more top soil before seeding which I hate doing.
WOW!! I am KICKING myself for having dumped SOOOO much money into the humic stuff over the past couple of years. All along a little voice in the back of my head kept saying 'doesnt look like this small fortune is really doing anything'. As much as I hate that, I love that I can now stop and clearly discern hype from fact. No more expensive black juice for me!!
As a kid growing up in Chicago the lawns in our neighborhood were always green and healthy and no one ever used any fertilizers or amendments. The internet has given anyone a platform to peddle their products and buyers need to due their research to separate the snake oil from the proven science of what is beneficial. Thanks for doing the research.
I make sure I face Mecca when applying milo. 3 prayers while watering it in. Sometimes this faith is rewarded with deep green double dark grass. Side note: Humic is a good kicker but too much can make Jesus mad.
He probably aerates the heck out of it. He has all that super expensive equipment from his own business he uses. He has those top of the line core aerators.
Thanks for laying out all this research showing both the beneficial and detrimental effects of Humic Acid. From what I've gathered, I'm not seeing any reason why applying Humic Acid would be beneficial for my lawn specifically or any situation where I'd be saving any real money.
Great video Matt, I myself was one of the suckers that bought into snake oil. That year I decided to use them my lawn looked worse than ever. Switched back to basic agronomy, NPK, some micros and working on lowering pH and it looks better than ever.
While it not may be as primarily beneficial as advertised, there is another important component to all of this. Speaking from my experience, i recently moved into my first home and I continued to use a big fert company and yard mow service the previous owner used as well as my neighbor. Long story short, I stumbled upon DIY lawn channels and took over my own lawn care duties. Using the N-Ext Biostim package and more frequent mowing at the correct height (lawn company was cutting way too low), my St Augustine looks way better than my neighbors now. Circling back, the point Im trying to make is frequent spraying and documentation has made me pay more attention to what my lawn needs are because im constantly walking my lawn during spray applications. So while the humic itself may not be the number one factor for my lawn turnaround, it has definitely helped turn my lawn around, build confidence and a good starting foundation of soil health.
Great point. You improved your cultural practices, you employed better nitrogen management (spoon feeding), paid closer attention to turfgrass response, and the humic improved your lawn? 🤔
I see your point, and I agree. Quality plus quantitative cultural practices far exceed any buzz word labels for overnight success. Ive only used the N-Ext Biostim pack for spraying applications, and I believe all of them contain some humic acid. So yes, I do believe it has to have some form of contribution to the overall quality of my soil. Furthermore I live in blackout zone so I dont apply too much or any N throughout certain times of the year. But if my lawn didnt turn around, would I blame the humic? I just wanted to sprinkle some words of encouragement to those people who are ready to throw away their jugs of humic too early bc they think its useless. If you got it, mix it, and get out in the lawn. Thanks for the content though. Im also a former lab rat by trade and I enjoy the breakdown.
So I kind of got lost at the end there but my question is will humic acid help clay soils to aggregate? You should repackage your root cycling video and re-release it. Best video ever for beginners to learn how to grow turf.
I was told to use both, but Fulvic Acid seems to be better for increasing things, rather than decreasing them. I just watched Debacco and he says Humic Acid reduced THC by 5% on main colas. WOW, that would not be the expected result...still figuring it out myself.
Thanks! clearly a waste of time and money, especially in comparison to the marketing. Its very expensive for added benefit. Used for 2 seasons or so and don’t see any benefits. Adjusting pH is most important factor..then NPK ratio
The Doc called, said the treatment for low BMS levels is for us to add a bunch of Humic and that it will be life changing! That’s all I needed to hear. Praying he is right 🙌
Thanks for the work you put into this Matt. I still have a couple jugs of various formulations of brown water. And not needing to stain my fence I will, as they say, throw her down. The reasons are two fold: 1- I can use the exercise. 2- The public shaming might convince me to keep my greenbacks in my wallet in the future.
I appreciate you and this video because with all those incentives to get paid by the Humus/Humic Acid people, you went on your own and did the deep dive.
Well this pretty much confirms it…. Iv been suckered into buying fancy leaf water and “special” ferts for the last 3 years. This is what I get for trusting RUclips influencers instead of asking myself “what is this doing for my grass”. Appreciate the time you put into this, Matt. Very informative video.
Thanks for making my brain hurt, Matt. I appreciate that none of this video used the words ... "Two trains traveling in opposite directions ...". On a serious note, thanks for parsing through all of this data on humic acid. It really does help us make more informed decisions about our lawn care.
From both personal use over the passed 5+ years and data from university research there’s too much data to dismiss humic acid. You have to buy from a reputable supplier and if possible fulvic is superior to use . The Garden Myth guy is not a scientist and he has an agenda to create YT hits. It’s so easy to create influence via cherry picking data and acting as a friggin’ expert. If he were a soil scientist doing actual research then he would be worth my time. Here are a few of the numerous snippets from actual university controlled studies. IMO humic acid acts as a hotel for soil microbes. If your soil microbial life isn’t rocking forget wasting $ on boutique fertilizer. Lastly if the Andersons are dumping a lot of $ into humic products better believe their reputation means a lot so they have done their homework Texas A&M Agriresearch study: The study showed soil amendment using lignite-derived humic substances improved the condition of plants exposed to water stress by reducing moisture loss,” he said. “Due to their capacity for improving plant root growth, soil nutrient cycling and microbial activity, the application of humic substances may have long-term benefits in agricultural systems.” Chunhua Liu, Ph.D., Clemson University and Richard J. Cooper pHD North Carolina State University “Application of HA materials at 400 ppm in solution-culture significantly in- creased root mass, compared to untreated turf on almost every sampling date in greenhouse studies. The response to lower rates were not as conclusive. Although the materials improved the amount of roots present, they did not affect root length. When granular humates were incorporated into the rootzone to a depth of four inch- es, the rooting effects were stronger than the effect of foliar sprays.”
Love all the research you do man. Sounds like I’ve made the mistake of saying humic acid does more than it actually does in turfgrass after listening to this video.
I think I heard pretty clearly an analysis of 'right plant, right place, right time' (not verbatim, mind you). This is why I love Matt's work...he takes time to dig into the nuances; not selling anything, but prepping the buyer to think twice about what will work best. And, make no bones about it...the pressure is on both in commercial applications and residential to latch on to "unicorn pee" (as I think another YT guy called it once). This video gives credence to the hype and the normalcy.
I don't think it's a mistake, I think there's so much variability it's hard to nail down what's happening and what's not. But there's clearly biological activity taking place that no one can deny. How that equates to performance is more ambiguous.
It makes sense that some homeowners would experience a benefit if humic substances help under-nourished turf. I think many average homeowners following 4-step plans, missing or delaying summer applications, and losing nitrogen to leaching are probably managing their turf in a less then fully-nourished state. Since purchasing fertilizer from my local farmers co-op for crazy cheap prices and applying PGR, I've felt the ability to have my nutrient levels where they need to be while not worring about money and overgrowth. Turf is starting to look like it's in optimal growing conditions even though it's still 90+ degrees in the midwest.
Just wondering if meant "Potassium Hydroxide" instead of "Sodium Hydroxide" since "Potassium Hydroxide" (commonly made from leaching hard wood ash and concentrating) was more commonly available 200 years ago and far less dangerous to make than "Sodium Hydroxide" (from leaching metallic/mineral sodium or smelting salt, either of which can be dangerous).
Because sodium carryover poses far more risk, especially reputationally (potassium is a macronutrient, sodium is mostly bad for plants), sodium hydroxide is very seldom used. It's almost always potassium hydroxide
@@TheGrassFactor That was my point, as I was reading along though I did find clarification that didn't mention the original method 200 years ago, however stated the "Sodium Hydroxide" was the modern method. It just seemed incongruous that "Potassium Hydroxide" was readily available for soap making 200 years ago and they were using "Sodium Hydroxide" it is sort of ironic though that "Potassium Hydroxide" made the old fashioned way could be referred to as a "Overcooked Biochar Emulsion". I enjoyed your video.
Dude thank you for this video. I stumbled upon your video after getting frustrated by the oddly ambiguous definition of Humic Acid. I was having a hard time finding a concrete explanation of just what H/A is and if I should incorporate it into my lawn/garden regiment. Your video has helped clarify things tremendously.
Even the soil scientists that study it can't define it. Their understanding of it is at the point of only describing it. I have a 2 year degree in ecology and that section of soil science was frustrating.
Humic and fulvic acids in the form of compost or vermicompost are used to increase soil organic matter which improves soil structure and function. This allows for more efficient nutrient uptake and lateral root development, mostly by increasing the soil's cation exchange capacity. - Elizabeth Severson, Rachel Perry and Ajay Nair: Department of Horticulture, Iowa State University
Maybe I am crazy but I never had fungus issues until I started spraying out Humic. Not saying its bad but I believe Matt's research nails it down for "right crop, right place, right time". Great job sir, just like a lot of your other content I will return to this video for clarity.
Have you tried to treat the fungus with a fungicide? As many, many healthy lawns have issues with especially when dealing with humidity and low airflow.
Humic and fulvic water soluble Liquid Sea kelp Liquid iron Grub control These 5 ingredients have made a huge difference based on my personal lawn care experience. I used to pay a lawn care company 650 annually and decided to do it all myself for 60...well worth it. I apply it all using my hose end sprayer.
This is great, although I believe we should study the application of raw Leonardite instead of Humic Acid. Humin being the stable part of soil organic matter, it acts as a substrate for microbial organisms and can ameliorate soil structure and water retention.
So soil health comes from organic material in soil, the 16 elements needed for plant growth, un chlorinated water, organic or synthetic fertelizer. It looks like a trade off more humic and less NPK due to the slight uptake from humic provided you can manage nutrient uptake. This comes down to cost and experience. Humic by itself with no other practice is a product to separate you from your money...
So I’m guessing that Humic12 by Next is a no go? Or if i use Humic its gonna take a couple years of very consistent usage to see any results? Ty for anyone who will explain this.
I for one will still use humic products in my lawn care strategy. It's not the end all be all as some describe on some RUclips channels but I have seen visual results which to me is just as important as the science...nice video
So, what is your solution for soil damaged by glyphosate? It has affected my dogwood trees and it makes sense to me that if the soil nutrients are tied up by this herbicide, the trees aren't get fed. No matter how much fertilizer you use. As many comments say, anyone can make a youtube video, and that includes this one.
Glyphosate does not persist that long in the soil Dogwoods are notorious for borers, cankers, and anthracnose. If you're not responding to any amount of fertilizer then it's one of those reasons - not glyphosate.
I think the best part about the video isn't even humic at all....its making people ask themselves...why am I doing this and why am I "throwing it down"
I challenge everyone to go in their garage and look at their arsenal and contemplate...what is this for and why am I using it. What is the science behind it...and if it's even benefiting them.
Thank you, Matt. Thought provoking as always. I’m going to have to go through this a few times to digest it all. The RUclips Algorithm will love that! 🤣
Matt, it kind of sounds like you are saying you were mistaken? If so, that’s BIG of you to do publicly. You’re a super smart and ambitious guy, and this speaks volumes to your character. With that said, let’s just come right out and say.. You had videos suggesting things like N-Ext RGS (primary ingredient being humic) as an alternative to top dressing, and their liquid aeration product as an alternative to mechanic aeration. You even had RGS infused into the carbon earth products you sold. In retrospect, would you still stand by those statements or has time shed light on the theory of humic vs the reality?
At one point I wanted to be accepted., I didn't think the things I said on RUclips would ever be analyzed. Now that I realize it is, it's important to be as much of a steward as possible. That said, there is some real beneficial science to humic and kelp as a tool in the tool box to manage stress and roots.
It is important to note that these studies looked only at humic on its own in combination with normal NPK fertilization and did not look at how it interacts when combined with other things such as kelp for example. In the case of RGS and AIR-8 there has been studies done and in progress right now comparing to mechanical aeration that shows a difference. This is why it is important to take into account what you want to take away from any study and how broadly you want to apply the results.
@@benh580 Lying is probably slightly more accurate. I was never blown away by the results. But I thought if supported the use of a product, I would benefit in some way. I had faith it did enough that it wouldn't be too controversial. Hence why I use the term, "faith based agronomy"
@@TheGrassFactor …I have a really good friend that is incredibly selfish, most people didn’t understand how he and I got along so well. I would tell everyone what he said to me one day when he first met me. We were having lunch and he came out and told me..” I’m a very selfish man I don’t mind doing things for others occasionally but I always look out for myself first”. I told him, “ I have more respect for you because you told me, I like honest people”. That’s why we are friends. Thank you for being honest, and telling your YT followers the truth.
For me you basically proved it worked with data however it is just unknown. What I got was you can replace some HA with less NPK and it performs the same. HOW? IF NPK was 100% then no noticeable difference. Maybe not best bang for the buck but it obviously works.
I am happy you provided this information. I had bought the Air8 prior to reading your comments. I am so delighted with the result. I have high Ph in the soil so my Maple tree in the yard has clorosis and the humus acid turned some of the leaves green. Wow an unexpected pleasant result.
that was an amazing thesis. I have never seen extensive miles of the most beautiful and lush grass as was displayed at the beginning of chapter 6.. thank you for caring and sharing
Hey buddy, I own a lawn fert company down in sw fl. I wonder what types of soils these tests were done in. We have very sandy soils here and after doing this work since 2008, I would say I do notice a difference using humics/fulvics... I wouldn't spend the money on it if I didnt. Am I positive it's the humic/fulvics? No... I use kelps, seaweed, molasses as well as the humics... What I can say is I use less fertilizer... Probably about 30%... I'm using lower rates than other guys locally. I have less fungus... less pest issues(mainly chinch bugs). That may be from applying less N... idk man
@@jhi1947 probably the most disconnected comment I've read so far. This video didn't say it was a scam, nor did it say it wasn't a scam. It has benefits in specific scenarios. It's also a waste of money in certain scenarios. Watch this video again. When you're finished, watch it again. Listen when he talks about your grass type and fertilization scenario. Also, I hope that the reason you said LBJ's name isn't why I think you did. Hopefully that went over my head.
@@IrvRat1982 The research stated in this video is for specific hypothesis and just brushes a few potential benefits or lack there of when using HA. There are many more ways that HA can and has been tested.
Just built a house where it's on hard pan. The yard looks like ass. Mostly crab grass. Bermuda struggles to stay alive. Tried everything except bringing in topsoil which do to the way the land slopes etc it's not a possibility. Got a few bags of humic and it's my last go before I say screw it. Will let you know how it goes.
@@NoblesTx didn't do a thing. Two full bags of humic DG over 1600 square feet and it's still rock hard. I also leveled another 2000 square feet with topsoil and it worked pretty well.
@@NoblesTx I don't know how big your yard is but go with topsoil and level the yard about 1-2 inches thick. Spread seed and use a weighted roller then lay straw where needed. I was sorta in a rush since my house was taken by the state for a highway. I only had 9 months to build a new one so didn't spend the time grading the lot. Once the state is done with their BS I'm going to do the rest of the 2 acres.
@@Spookshow1000 yea it’s about 22k sqft of mowable lawn. About 10k of it I just had graded with a local mix. About 10 trucks worth. Sadly the yard was completely neglected by the previous owner so since I’m in the south I did a pallet of sod around the front porch and did Bermuda seed in the back. Iv thrown everything at the yard since about march. Luckily it’s doing really well but the back yard came in kinda thin over the last 30 days so I’m reseeding and that’s going to be at least 20 days of watering and no rain in sight 😂 iv got everything from starter fert, biosolid fert, Biochar, to the liquid stuff like RGS and air8. Snake oils I’m sure but my yard could use any help it can get. I’m sure the water alone would wake it up.
Funny how you can unpack any study to support what you as a gardener are doing as proof positive I really wanted at avoid the synthetic route while trying to renovate an awful property. In my research I concluded that using a broad spectrum organic approach with a little synthetic mixed in was the course to take I use a foliar application of humic fulvic kelp molasses and iron in between organic granular fertilizers . I use synthetic at the start and end of the year in reduced suggested amounts Using this process I have transformed a crappy property into an almost perfect one. My fear is that any use of herbicides destroys any benefits of organic soil improvement The only visible difference I see is that when the Ph is near 7 and I’m applying my foliar humic combo spray the TTTF is noticeably greener, other than that who knows what I’ve improved in terms of soil benefits Thank you for this video and I’ll need to view it numerous times. It illustrates the on going confusion DIYers have in trying to do the right thing. Everyone has an agenda and the outcome depends on who is funding that agenda. It sucks I stopped using biochar after a deep dive into the science and my personal experience. It seems to only work in totally depleted rainforest soils. I wasted a lot of money and time on biochar and honestly couldn’t see any improvement. I’m so surprised reputable companies are touting it without independent peer reviewed studies In the fall I too dress the lawn with compost after aeration and overseeding but this also introduces weed seed that has to be suppressed with herbicides so the vicious “organic “ process takes a kick in the nuts In the end I’m left as clueless as ever as to whether my organic approach is worth the effort. Lawns in general suck and I don’t see anyone out there trying to make life better for the average guy
Now all those liquid humic's that's sold on the internet will go down in price and will lose a lot of money because less lawn folks will not purchase it no longer. In my opinion, I never believed in the liquid humic esp adding only ounces of it but I did use the granular form instead. Adding more per pound versus adding a few ounces did not make sense to me. I'll stick with my liquid lawn mix I make with a few additives that shows awesome results. Thanks for your intense research! I'm one who does research all the time!
I'm only half way through this vid and I am gathering that I have wasted money On humic this year as well as your resent vid on the waste of time on carbon apps
It appears that it may have a positive effect on bent. I have been trying to get rid of bent in my yard. So I take it I may have been making my problem worse. Keep in mind I live in southern Onario so I don't have access to the good stuff, (unless you can get it to me) 😉
Just so you know. I have been following this channel for months. I did sign on for discord but haven't signed in yet because 5 a.m. comes early but looking forward to checking it out when I can.
So not a scam. Now making claims that you don't need a fertilizer if you use is a Humic product, that is the scam. Great video, I would love to see a deep dive on the vermicompost. Thanks
If you were my science teacher in high school and every time I looked up from my notes your hair had changed I would still be a loser but I would have loved science more.
If a position cannot bare scrutiny, it must have a very weak foundation. I saw no drama here. If the truth conflicts with our deeply held beliefs, the problem is not with the truth messenger, but with our clinging to a comfortable falsehood and unwilling to change. But hey, what do I know? I’m just some guy on the internet haha! Great video btw.
3x is a very specific statement without any research to back it up, but yes, there is increased efficacy on root development, but not in any of the other metrics we covered - as far as research has unpacked.
@@TheGrassFactor I don't know, I just remember reading that somewhere before about their effectiveness all coupled together versus individually, was way more effective and impactful, was more less asking your take on it...
@@TheGrassFactor I think sometimes we get led to believe something is more beneficial to apply than it really is, especially something like a humic/kelp product where I have never really visually seen any benefits from it, thank you for unpacking this with real life studies, etc... Snake Oil I suppose
if only all videos were this detailed. it looks like humic acid dissolves calcium. freeing up phosphorus from calcium phosphate. this would explain why adding it to a phosphorus starter feed does little, but when used alone it helps root growth. since it blocks phosphorus normally, i just switched to fulvic when i add phosphates in the first 2 weeks of veg and bloom, and use humic with my cal mag boron feed with aminos and seaweed extract. i was using 1/32 teaspoon of humic per gallon on evey feed, and just adding a half teaspoon of fulvic to that immediately made the leaves bigger and stretched out to edges of pot, implying root extending out further.
We'd all be better off if we simply followed the recommendations provided by our local county extension office for our grass type. We wouldn't need to waste endless hours watching useless videos of so called lawn gurus cutting grass and applying the latest products sold by other lawn gurus who pay for them to use their products!
George, I totally get what you mean. But I would disagree. Even county extension office has are all over the place. I think if we all followed the MLSN, the applicability would be way more consistent. I apologize, I know I'm nitpicking
@@johnbiggins2105 Nobody does a better job than I do when submitting soil tests! My 13,000 sq/ft lawn is divided into 8 different zones. I take 6" cores based on a 10' x 10' grid from each individual zone. By the time I'm finished, I probably have at a minimum 125 to 150 separate cores. I submit 9 samples. 8 samples from the 8 individual zones and one comprehensive sample that mixes soil from all 8 zones into one. The PH for each zone is corrected to 6.5 PH based on the report. At the end my entire lawn has a consistent 6.5 PH across all zones. Each zone also receives fertilizer based on that particular zones reccomendations. So I may do 10-10-10 on one zone, 16-4-8 on another, and 32-0-0 on another.
@@georgewilson3299 Just dig up the first 2ft of soil across your entire yard and mix it up and putt it back down. It is going to save you a lot of time and money so you can start with an even slate at this rate ROFL.
This is extremely interesting. Have you ever thought of challenging Lawncology to a debate? That would be very good and maybe funny debate on RUclips! 😊😅
Maybe I missed it, but it sounded like all of these studies were in sandy soils. Were any of them in clay soils? Would there be any potential for additional benefits or drawbacks of humic/fulvic acids in clay soils? Seems like they would stay in the soil longer and be able to do more work on the soil than a quick-draining sandy soil.
There were more in sand than clay, but yes there were clay studies, with no measurable effect on how these researchers defined soil health, moisture retention, compaction, CEC, etc. But the realized nitrogen management benefits did have good results.
This is a good point that without really defining the soil clearly it is hard to paint a broad conclusion. However, one would assume that sandy soils would be less humis and thus would get the most potential benefit.
Lawn care reminds me of audiophile snake oil. Cables and power conditioners can make a difference, but not nearly as much as treating the reflection points in the room. Worry about Ph first, and then NPK, then maybe, maybe soil conditioning. Every industry is just trying to extract cash from you, and I’ll admit my journey in both have resulted in some ticks in the L column along the way.
Could you do one on a glacier rock dust or whatever the hell that is people think that goes into the garden and it activate immediately it takes years for that stuff to to activate
Bro, I'm not trying to be one of those people to give you a hard time, But I work With forklifts every day, if My boss ever seen me on my cell phone operating, I would lose my job on the spot.
Dude, I get it, and it's honestly good for me to hear. I get way too complacent around them. I'm an owner/operator, so i should do a better job prioritizing safety.
If you say or think humic or fulvic acid should not be used in gardening or any type of growing, you have NO idea what you’re talking about. They are used solely for breaking down heavy metals, in commercial grows. If you don’t use them you’ll fail any state testing for organic arsenic, high aluminum levels ect. If you don’t know what your talking about, why spread bad or uninformed internet research? Do your own research, send in soil locally. Some inputs are not for the veg or roots like humic which is meant for treating the soil not plant. This is a very bad video for anyone wanting to learn how to grow anything from grass to commercial products.
My video is arguably the most comprehensive review of published data related to growing grass with humic substances on the internet. Please cite your sources or GTFO.
So many claims of positive things it does many big companys like down to earth using it in their products its very hard fo me to belive they would use it if it did not work ., maybe all the humic acid isent the same ? Their must be other testing that shows it does work and user feedback too .
Hey Matt, I was looking at the Hone Health online and had a few questions about it. I’m not sure if this is the right video to ask… What would be the difference from Hone to going to get bloodwork and having my doc review the results? Is that what it’s really all about or more?
Just watched a video where you talked about the benefits of humic acid in the soil... You should do a video talking about how watering your lawn is a scam. 😂
So basically it's the 'fifth Humor' that the Greeks couldn't find.... Because it's from the ground. Same mysterious 'liquid' feeling. So is the next big thing the 'sixth Humor' from the sky? It's called dihydrogen monoxide, and it's a miracle cure for your grass!
@@TheGrassFactor the Greeks thought your body had four liquid 'humors' (blood, Black bile, yellow bile and phlegm) and that when out of balance caused you to get sick. It's the origin of bloodletting (too much blood in their mind)... Sounds just as good as some of this faith based agronomy!
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Yeah watching this is ridiculous ... you could have just stood on your creds and said what you said in the beginning at the end 🙄🙄🙄
I could have, but I didn't.
Love these style videos Matt. I know these take forever to put together, but they are gold for all of us.
Ok, good job on the humic acid video. After I unload the product I have sitting here, I can’t find the reason why I would buy any more of it. Can you do a video whether Biochar is a scam? This product seems to be picking up more interest but there is some skepticism out there as well.
Biochar is not a scam but I think many products touting the benefits are not economically feasible. Most studies showing benefits start out at 2-4 tons of biochar per acre before showing even a threshold of a benefit, which translates to about 100-200 lbs per 1000 sq ft. Many of these products are at most 30% biochar so you would need to apply over 600 lbs of product per 1000 sq ft to make a difference. Most of these products are 40 lbs bags at $40 a pop so 12 bags per 1000 which is about $480 per 1000 sq ft. I would say if you are starting a new lawn, can get some in bulk and have it tilled into your soil.... go for it, but it's going to take 6 years of bi-yearly miramichi green apps to even hit the threshold of where biochar is beneficial. I do see a benefit when using biochar with chicken manure because chicken manure stinks to high hell and stinks for a while. When its micronized within biochar one watering is all it takes to get rid of the smell. I do think its useful as a filler, smell reducer in the case of composts and it has sort of a slow release mechanism built in naturally. But as far as the biochar itself 'amending' soil in some of these products I would say its not practical. Humachar? Colossal waste of money. Manures + biochar? Sure if the cost isn't much more than the manure itself, but don't expect any long term benefits from the biochar there just isn't enough of it.
@@gangstarib It's a scam. You don't need it and wont see any benefits from it. mulching your lawn will do a better job and restoring nutrients and cost you nothing.
Well why leave it up to me whether it is a scam? That is why I came to you. You have gone through the studies and you are considerably more experienced than I so you should be drawing the conclusion in your opinion. What do you think? Do you think it is a scam? That is the whole point to me listening to you.
I second that.
@@DavidfromMichigan third that!
He does that in most of his videos
Click bait
4th that
This actually blew my mind! It is so nice to hear that very specific research has been done in recent years on this topic. I have tried for so long to find conclusive evidence and everything that you referenced makes sense. It goes back to one particular fact, soil health and soil biology is wonderfully complex!
Three years ago when humic became main stream on the tubes people would comment, “It takes years for the benefits of using humic.” Today, those same exact people became video makers on youtube, and state how green their lawns became just after one application of humic. Pitiful.
*Mainstream
Agreed 100%. Seekers of truth are always willing to listen to criticism.
I inherited a lawn that had soil hard as a rock. Monthly apps of humic acid for close to a year. By the next season I was able to easily stick a soil probe in the ground with almost no resistance. No mechanical aeration was used.
ruclips.net/video/bNPWEJiKmjE/видео.html
@@TheGrassFactor Thanks brother. This is good info for my seeding project. I was toying with the idea of order more top soil before seeding which I hate doing.
Gypsum does a better job and is cheaper. Also, you soil is probably more moist because previous owner didn't care for the lawn as much.
@@HiddenAgendas Are talking about lime. Humic acid or Humic 12 like 28.00 dollars. Just asking
@@angelaprater2679 NO i'm talking about gypsum.
WOW!! I am KICKING myself for having dumped SOOOO much money into the humic stuff over the past couple of years. All along a little voice in the back of my head kept saying 'doesnt look like this small fortune is really doing anything'. As much as I hate that, I love that I can now stop and clearly discern hype from fact. No more expensive black juice for me!!
Oh, your type always falls for the next scam.
As a kid growing up in Chicago the lawns in our neighborhood were always green and healthy and no one ever used any fertilizers or amendments. The internet has given anyone a platform to peddle their products and buyers need to due their research to separate the snake oil from the proven science of what is beneficial. Thanks for doing the research.
I agree. I also grew up in Chicago and this is true.
I will pin the strongest faith based agronomy hateful comments!
Yes, show them off instead of deleting others opinions.
I make sure I face Mecca when applying milo. 3 prayers while watering it in. Sometimes this faith is rewarded with deep green double dark grass. Side note: Humic is a good kicker but too much can make Jesus mad.
Shoot...did I miss hulk hogan's birthday?
@@Ubergamer256 Yikes........That's fooking blasphemy. Oh...I forgot....religiontards can get by with sheet like that!
Lol, gotta love it when someone calls out the tinfoil hat crowd.
I guess good ole Pete is going to have to come up with a better excuse as to why his lawn is not compacted!
He probably aerates the heck out of it. He has all that super expensive equipment from his own business he uses. He has those top of the line core aerators.
Thanks for laying out all this research showing both the beneficial and detrimental effects of Humic Acid. From what I've gathered, I'm not seeing any reason why applying Humic Acid would be beneficial for my lawn specifically or any situation where I'd be saving any real money.
Great video Matt, I myself was one of the suckers that bought into snake oil. That year I decided to use them my lawn looked worse than ever. Switched back to basic agronomy, NPK, some micros and working on lowering pH and it looks better than ever.
It's not snakeoil.... lol uneducated.
While it not may be as primarily beneficial as advertised, there is another important component to all of this. Speaking from my experience, i recently moved into my first home and I continued to use a big fert company and yard mow service the previous owner used as well as my neighbor. Long story short, I stumbled upon DIY lawn channels and took over my own lawn care duties. Using the N-Ext Biostim package and more frequent mowing at the correct height (lawn company was cutting way too low), my St Augustine looks way better than my neighbors now.
Circling back, the point Im trying to make is frequent spraying and documentation has made me pay more attention to what my lawn needs are because im constantly walking my lawn during spray applications.
So while the humic itself may not be the number one factor for my lawn turnaround, it has definitely helped turn my lawn around, build confidence and a good starting foundation of soil health.
Great point. You improved your cultural practices, you employed better nitrogen management (spoon feeding), paid closer attention to turfgrass response, and the humic improved your lawn? 🤔
I see your point, and I agree. Quality plus quantitative cultural practices far exceed any buzz word labels for overnight success.
Ive only used the N-Ext Biostim pack for spraying applications, and I believe all of them contain some humic acid. So yes, I do believe it has to have some form of contribution to the overall quality of my soil. Furthermore I live in blackout zone so I dont apply too much or any N throughout certain times of the year. But if my lawn didnt turn around, would I blame the humic?
I just wanted to sprinkle some words of encouragement to those people who are ready to throw away their jugs of humic too early bc they think its useless. If you got it, mix it, and get out in the lawn. Thanks for the content though. Im also a former lab rat by trade and I enjoy the breakdown.
So I kind of got lost at the end there but my question is will humic acid help clay soils to aggregate? You should repackage your root cycling video and re-release it. Best video ever for beginners to learn how to grow turf.
I was told to use both, but Fulvic Acid seems to be better for increasing things, rather than decreasing them. I just watched Debacco and he says Humic Acid reduced THC by 5% on main colas. WOW, that would not be the expected result...still figuring it out myself.
Thanks! clearly a waste of time and money, especially in comparison to the marketing. Its very expensive for added benefit. Used for 2 seasons or so and don’t see any benefits. Adjusting pH is most important factor..then NPK ratio
The Doc called, said the treatment for low BMS levels is for us to add a bunch of Humic and that it will be life changing! That’s all I needed to hear. Praying he is right 🙌
Kind of a cop out. What's your opinion? Would you spend your money on it?
Thanks for the work you put into this Matt. I still have a couple jugs of various formulations of brown water. And not needing to stain my fence I will, as they say, throw her down. The reasons are two fold: 1- I can use the exercise. 2- The public shaming might convince me to keep my greenbacks in my wallet in the future.
I appreciate you and this video because with all those incentives to get paid by the Humus/Humic Acid people, you went on your own and did the deep dive.
Thank you very much for your efforts and details required to deliver this episode!
Well this pretty much confirms it…. Iv been suckered into buying fancy leaf water and “special” ferts for the last 3 years. This is what I get for trusting RUclips influencers instead of asking myself “what is this doing for my grass”. Appreciate the time you put into this, Matt. Very informative video.
Walmart 10-10-10 and 15-5-10 has worked great for me. Best lawn on the block. 👍🏼
Placebo works 33.33% of the time. I suspect quite a bit higher for the DIY turf obsessed homeowner.
I've been waiting for this video, can you so something similar for carbon? Kelp? Fish?
Absolutely. These take a significant amount of time and $ so bare with me.
What kind of fish are you applying to your lawn? I just put 100# of trout on mine but thinking of switching to tilapia because it’s cheaper
@@HungrySoutherner stick with trout just saw a study of how tilapia has high mercury levels. Hahaha
@@TheGrassFactor thank you, you are the man. Crazy information on this one
You've likely just burnt some bridges and made some enemies. Thanks for the info you're awesome
Thanks for making my brain hurt, Matt. I appreciate that none of this video used the words ... "Two trains traveling in opposite directions ...". On a serious note, thanks for parsing through all of this data on humic acid. It really does help us make more informed decisions about our lawn care.
From both personal use over the passed 5+ years and data from university research there’s too much data to dismiss humic acid. You have to buy from a reputable supplier and if possible fulvic is superior to use .
The Garden Myth guy is not a scientist and he has an agenda to create YT hits. It’s so easy to create influence via cherry picking data and acting as a friggin’ expert. If he were a soil scientist doing actual research then he would be worth my time. Here are a few of the numerous snippets from actual university controlled studies. IMO humic acid acts as a hotel for soil microbes. If your soil microbial life isn’t rocking forget wasting $ on boutique fertilizer. Lastly if the Andersons are dumping a lot of $ into humic products better believe their reputation means a lot so they have done their homework
Texas A&M Agriresearch study:
The study showed soil amendment using lignite-derived humic substances improved the condition of plants exposed to water stress by reducing moisture loss,” he said. “Due to their capacity for improving plant root growth, soil nutrient cycling and microbial activity, the application of humic substances may have long-term benefits in agricultural systems.”
Chunhua Liu, Ph.D., Clemson University and Richard J. Cooper pHD
North Carolina State University
“Application of HA materials at 400 ppm in solution-culture significantly in- creased root mass, compared to untreated turf on almost every sampling date in greenhouse studies. The response to lower rates were not as conclusive. Although the materials improved the amount of roots present, they did not affect root length. When granular humates were incorporated into the rootzone to a depth of four inch- es, the rooting effects were stronger than the effect of foliar sprays.”
@@woodforthetrees3496 Those damn. North Korean spies
Love all the research you do man. Sounds like I’ve made the mistake of saying humic acid does more than it actually does in turfgrass after listening to this video.
I think I heard pretty clearly an analysis of 'right plant, right place, right time' (not verbatim, mind you). This is why I love Matt's work...he takes time to dig into the nuances; not selling anything, but prepping the buyer to think twice about what will work best. And, make no bones about it...the pressure is on both in commercial applications and residential to latch on to "unicorn pee" (as I think another YT guy called it once). This video gives credence to the hype and the normalcy.
I don't think it's a mistake, I think there's so much variability it's hard to nail down what's happening and what's not. But there's clearly biological activity taking place that no one can deny. How that equates to performance is more ambiguous.
@@TheGrassFactor cool cool, good to hear the evidence though and your opinion on it mate. Have a lot of respect for you and your knowledge man!!
It makes sense that some homeowners would experience a benefit if humic substances help under-nourished turf. I think many average homeowners following 4-step plans, missing or delaying summer applications, and losing nitrogen to leaching are probably managing their turf in a less then fully-nourished state. Since purchasing fertilizer from my local farmers co-op for crazy cheap prices and applying PGR, I've felt the ability to have my nutrient levels where they need to be while not worring about money and overgrowth. Turf is starting to look like it's in optimal growing conditions even though it's still 90+ degrees in the midwest.
Your are the f$cking man. Wait, am I allowed to say how I feel. Mad respect. 👍🍻
Just wondering if meant "Potassium Hydroxide" instead of "Sodium Hydroxide" since "Potassium Hydroxide" (commonly made from leaching hard wood ash and concentrating) was more commonly available 200 years ago and far less dangerous to make than "Sodium Hydroxide" (from leaching metallic/mineral sodium or smelting salt, either of which can be dangerous).
Because sodium carryover poses far more risk, especially reputationally (potassium is a macronutrient, sodium is mostly bad for plants), sodium hydroxide is very seldom used. It's almost always potassium hydroxide
@@TheGrassFactor That was my point, as I was reading along though I did find clarification that didn't mention the original method 200 years ago, however stated the "Sodium Hydroxide" was the modern method.
It just seemed incongruous that "Potassium Hydroxide" was readily available for soap making 200 years ago and they were using "Sodium Hydroxide" it is sort of ironic though that "Potassium Hydroxide" made the old fashioned way could be referred to as a "Overcooked Biochar Emulsion".
I enjoyed your video.
Dude thank you for this video. I stumbled upon your video after getting frustrated by the oddly ambiguous definition of Humic Acid. I was having a hard time finding a concrete explanation of just what H/A is and if I should incorporate it into my lawn/garden regiment. Your video has helped clarify things tremendously.
Even the soil scientists that study it can't define it. Their understanding of it is at the point of only describing it. I have a 2 year degree in ecology and that section of soil science was frustrating.
You should do a video like this on the root hair promoting peptide
Certainly!
I second this one. Would be very interested to watch.
Humic and fulvic acids in the form of compost or vermicompost are used to increase soil organic matter which improves soil structure and function. This allows for more efficient nutrient uptake and lateral root development, mostly by increasing the soil's cation exchange capacity. - Elizabeth Severson, Rachel Perry and Ajay Nair: Department of Horticulture, Iowa State University
Maybe I am crazy but I never had fungus issues until I started spraying out Humic. Not saying its bad but I believe Matt's research nails it down for "right crop, right place, right time". Great job sir, just like a lot of your other content I will return to this video for clarity.
Have you tried to treat the fungus with a fungicide? As many, many healthy lawns have issues with especially when dealing with humidity and low airflow.
Humic and fulvic water soluble
Liquid Sea kelp
Liquid iron
Grub control
These 5 ingredients have made a huge difference based on my personal lawn care experience. I used to pay a lawn care company 650 annually and decided to do it all myself for 60...well worth it. I apply it all using my hose end sprayer.
That was a ton of work MM, thanks for putting this together. Multiple airport beers for you!
This is great, although I believe we should study the application of raw Leonardite instead of Humic Acid. Humin being the stable part of soil organic matter, it acts as a substrate for microbial organisms and can ameliorate soil structure and water retention.
So soil health comes from organic material in soil, the 16 elements needed for plant growth, un chlorinated water, organic or synthetic fertelizer. It looks like a trade off more humic and less NPK due to the slight uptake from humic provided you can manage nutrient uptake. This comes down to cost and experience. Humic by itself with no other practice is a product to separate you from your money...
I threw down gypsum and bought some NEXT RGS. I'm gonna spray that on my lawn once a month. I'll let you know by the end of the summer how she looks
So it most probably is and is not but also possibly may but may not be maybe.
So I’m guessing that Humic12 by Next is a no go? Or if i use Humic its gonna take a couple years of very consistent usage to see any results? Ty for anyone who will explain this.
Who or what is N-ext. I heard that they are pushing hard. Not going down in my yard. Matt, when you coming out with some product.?
If I missed it I apologize but does straight Humic Acid have a neutral or negative affect on soil pH?
@@lubblegarage mostly neutral, but it depends on the manufacturing method.
Most of the time it's neutral
I for one will still use humic products in my lawn care strategy. It's not the end all be all as some describe on some RUclips channels but I have seen visual results which to me is just as important as the science...nice video
It’s probably the extra care that you gave your lawn that made it look better. Fed it, mowed and watered probably goes a long way.
I believe more in my Walmart 10-10-10 bag than Humic...like Matt used to say, just get something growing, water and mow mow mow.
I love it when you talk about Humic because I've been a dirty fracker for 12 years, and I get to learn about this from an oil field aspect.
I have a minor in chemistry and LOVE watching your videos. Keep up the great work.
So, what is your solution for soil damaged by glyphosate? It has affected my dogwood trees and it makes sense to me that if the soil nutrients are tied up by this herbicide, the trees aren't get fed. No matter how much fertilizer you use. As many comments say, anyone can make a youtube video, and that includes this one.
Glyphosate does not persist that long in the soil
Dogwoods are notorious for borers, cankers, and anthracnose. If you're not responding to any amount of fertilizer then it's one of those reasons - not glyphosate.
I’m in the market for a new leveling rake. Just wondering if you could offer a good review of one?
🤣🤣🤣🤣
Along with that… looking for a good electric dethatcher…preferably one I can drag a cord around with. Any suggestions? Asking for a friend.
@@vancelyndon3416 omg are the electric dethatchers a scam too?
@@Jknudsen0523 negative. The sunjoe is snappin.
How do you want your lawn to look when Jesus comes back?
🤣🤣🤣
Well I.d be more worried about how he feeled about me and not the grass.
I think the best part about the video isn't even humic at all....its making people ask themselves...why am I doing this and why am I "throwing it down"
I challenge everyone to go in their garage and look at their arsenal and contemplate...what is this for and why am I using it. What is the science behind it...and if it's even benefiting them.
I just watched this, one month late, but I am reading the comments and noticing the same thing. Very funny to me. So much "faith based agronomy" haha
Thank you, Matt. Thought provoking as always. I’m going to have to go through this a few times to digest it all. The RUclips Algorithm will love that! 🤣
Matt, it kind of sounds like you are saying you were mistaken? If so, that’s BIG of you to do publicly. You’re a super smart and ambitious guy, and this speaks volumes to your character.
With that said, let’s just come right out and say.. You had videos suggesting things like N-Ext RGS (primary ingredient being humic) as an alternative to top dressing, and their liquid aeration product as an alternative to mechanic aeration. You even had RGS infused into the carbon earth products you sold. In retrospect, would you still stand by those statements or has time shed light on the theory of humic vs the reality?
At one point I wanted to be accepted., I didn't think the things I said on RUclips would ever be analyzed. Now that I realize it is, it's important to be as much of a steward as possible. That said, there is some real beneficial science to humic and kelp as a tool in the tool box to manage stress and roots.
It is important to note that these studies looked only at humic on its own in combination with normal NPK fertilization and did not look at how it interacts when combined with other things such as kelp for example. In the case of RGS and AIR-8 there has been studies done and in progress right now comparing to mechanical aeration that shows a difference. This is why it is important to take into account what you want to take away from any study and how broadly you want to apply the results.
@@TheGrassFactor so, you were lying before to be accepted? Or, did bad blood cause this?
@@benh580 Lying is probably slightly more accurate. I was never blown away by the results. But I thought if supported the use of a product, I would benefit in some way. I had faith it did enough that it wouldn't be too controversial. Hence why I use the term, "faith based agronomy"
@@TheGrassFactor …I have a really good friend that is incredibly selfish, most people didn’t understand how he and I got along so well. I would tell everyone what he said to me one day when he first met me.
We were having lunch and he came out and told me..” I’m a very selfish man I don’t mind doing things for others occasionally but I always look out for myself first”.
I told him, “ I have more respect for you because you told me, I like honest people”. That’s why we are friends.
Thank you for being honest, and telling your YT followers the truth.
For me you basically proved it worked with data however it is just unknown. What I got was you can replace some HA with less NPK and it performs the same. HOW? IF NPK was 100% then no noticeable difference. Maybe not best bang for the buck but it obviously works.
I am happy you provided this information. I had bought the Air8 prior to reading your comments. I am so delighted with the result. I have high Ph in the soil so my Maple tree in the yard has clorosis and the humus acid turned some of the leaves green. Wow an unexpected pleasant result.
that was an amazing thesis. I have never seen extensive miles of the most beautiful and lush grass as was displayed at the beginning of chapter 6.. thank you for caring and sharing
Hey buddy, I own a lawn fert company down in sw fl. I wonder what types of soils these tests were done in. We have very sandy soils here and after doing this work since 2008, I would say I do notice a difference using humics/fulvics... I wouldn't spend the money on it if I didnt. Am I positive it's the humic/fulvics? No... I use kelps, seaweed, molasses as well as the humics... What I can say is I use less fertilizer... Probably about 30%... I'm using lower rates than other guys locally. I have less fungus... less pest issues(mainly chinch bugs). That may be from applying less N... idk man
Me: Dear Jesus, should I use humic acid?
Jesus: What would Matt Martin do?
Best comment!
So Jesus is saying John Perry is a pos scum sob huh? Also Pete Denny?
I would of thought your Jesus would of uttered "wtf would Lebro James do"?
@jason 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@jhi1947 probably the most disconnected comment I've read so far. This video didn't say it was a scam, nor did it say it wasn't a scam. It has benefits in specific scenarios. It's also a waste of money in certain scenarios. Watch this video again. When you're finished, watch it again. Listen when he talks about your grass type and fertilization scenario. Also, I hope that the reason you said LBJ's name isn't why I think you did. Hopefully that went over my head.
@@IrvRat1982 The research stated in this video is for specific hypothesis and just brushes a few potential benefits or lack there of when using HA. There are many more ways that HA can and has been tested.
Just built a house where it's on hard pan. The yard looks like ass. Mostly crab grass. Bermuda struggles to stay alive. Tried everything except bringing in topsoil which do to the way the land slopes etc it's not a possibility. Got a few bags of humic and it's my last go before I say screw it. Will let you know how it goes.
How’d that go?
@@NoblesTx didn't do a thing. Two full bags of humic DG over 1600 square feet and it's still rock hard.
I also leveled another 2000 square feet with topsoil and it worked pretty well.
@@Spookshow1000 thanks for the reply. I’m trying a throw the kitchen sink at my lawn approach so I’ll see how it goes lol
@@NoblesTx I don't know how big your yard is but go with topsoil and level the yard about 1-2 inches thick. Spread seed and use a weighted roller then lay straw where needed.
I was sorta in a rush since my house was taken by the state for a highway. I only had 9 months to build a new one so didn't spend the time grading the lot.
Once the state is done with their BS I'm going to do the rest of the 2 acres.
@@Spookshow1000 yea it’s about 22k sqft of mowable lawn. About 10k of it I just had graded with a local mix. About 10 trucks worth. Sadly the yard was completely neglected by the previous owner so since I’m in the south I did a pallet of sod around the front porch and did Bermuda seed in the back. Iv thrown everything at the yard since about march. Luckily it’s doing really well but the back yard came in kinda thin over the last 30 days so I’m reseeding and that’s going to be at least 20 days of watering and no rain in sight 😂 iv got everything from starter fert, biosolid fert, Biochar, to the liquid stuff like RGS and air8. Snake oils I’m sure but my yard could use any help it can get. I’m sure the water alone would wake it up.
Funny how you can unpack any study to support what you as a gardener are doing as proof positive
I really wanted at avoid the synthetic route while trying to renovate an awful property. In my research I concluded that using a broad spectrum organic approach with a little synthetic mixed in was the course to take
I use a foliar application of humic fulvic kelp molasses and iron in between organic granular fertilizers . I use synthetic at the start and end of the year in reduced suggested amounts
Using this process I have transformed a crappy property into an almost perfect one. My fear is that any use of herbicides destroys any benefits of organic soil improvement
The only visible difference I see is that when the Ph is near 7 and I’m applying my foliar humic combo spray the TTTF is noticeably greener, other than that who knows what I’ve improved in terms of soil benefits
Thank you for this video and I’ll need to view it numerous times. It illustrates the on going confusion DIYers have in trying to do the right thing. Everyone has an agenda and the outcome depends on who is funding that agenda. It sucks
I stopped using biochar after a deep dive into the science and my personal experience. It seems to only work in totally depleted rainforest soils. I wasted a lot of money and time on biochar and honestly couldn’t see any improvement. I’m so surprised reputable companies are touting it without independent peer reviewed studies
In the fall I too dress the lawn with compost after aeration and overseeding but this also introduces weed seed that has to be suppressed with herbicides so the vicious “organic “ process takes a kick in the nuts
In the end I’m left as clueless as ever as to whether my organic approach is worth the effort. Lawns in general suck and I don’t see anyone out there trying to make life better for the average guy
Well damnit now I kinda regret that I just bought humic acid.
Roytoy, yep me too. $70 for a 40 lb bag of Humic DG.
Faith based agronomy 😂😂😂
Now all those liquid humic's that's sold on the internet will go down in price and will lose a lot of money because less lawn folks will not purchase it no longer. In my opinion, I never believed in the liquid humic esp adding only ounces of it but I did use the granular form instead. Adding more per pound versus adding a few ounces did not make sense to me. I'll stick with my liquid lawn mix I make with a few additives that shows awesome results. Thanks for your intense research! I'm one who does research all the time!
Lots of awesome information. Thank you
I'm only half way through this vid and I am gathering that I have wasted money
On humic this year as well as your resent vid on the waste of time on carbon apps
Wait til the end
So humic will reduce nitrogen app rate. Price comparison, i'll stick to nitro rate
It appears that it may have a positive effect on bent. I have been trying to get rid of bent in my yard. So I take it I may have been making my problem worse. Keep in mind I live in southern Onario so I don't have access to the good stuff, (unless you can get it to me) 😉
Just so you know. I have been following this channel for months. I did sign on for discord but haven't signed in yet because 5 a.m. comes early but looking forward to checking it out when I can.
Christ I wish I could afford to get one of you guys to come here for a consult.
Please answer. So us Greene county humic12 any good?
So not a scam. Now making claims that you don't need a fertilizer if you use is a Humic product, that is the scam. Great video, I would love to see a deep dive on the vermicompost. Thanks
😮so me buying humic 12 from the lawn nut isn't worth it? When I think in doing good someone says not worth it🤷♂️
If you were my science teacher in high school and every time I looked up from my notes your hair had changed I would still be a loser but I would have loved science more.
The Drama Factor or Factory. I’m done here .
Did you even watch the video? Or did you just comment because your feelings were hurt by the title?
@@TheGrassFactor
He could not think critically.
If a position cannot bare scrutiny, it must have a very weak foundation. I saw no drama here. If the truth conflicts with our deeply held beliefs, the problem is not with the truth messenger, but with our clinging to a comfortable falsehood and unwilling to change. But hey, what do I know? I’m just some guy on the internet haha! Great video btw.
Thank you for putting this all together!
Humic acid and fulvic acid binds to metals in the body
@@CriticalThinker777 huge news
I can see these results being so with just Humic Alone but what about Humic coupled with Fulvic & Kelp, doesn't that make it 3x more effective?
3x is a very specific statement without any research to back it up, but yes, there is increased efficacy on root development, but not in any of the other metrics we covered - as far as research has unpacked.
@@TheGrassFactor I don't know, I just remember reading that somewhere before about their effectiveness all coupled together versus individually, was way more effective and impactful, was more less asking your take on it...
@@TheGrassFactor I think sometimes we get led to believe something is more beneficial to apply than it really is, especially something like a humic/kelp product where I have never really visually seen any benefits from it, thank you for unpacking this with real life studies, etc... Snake Oil I suppose
if only all videos were this detailed. it looks like humic acid dissolves calcium. freeing up phosphorus from calcium phosphate.
this would explain why adding it to a phosphorus starter feed does little, but when used alone it helps root growth.
since it blocks phosphorus normally, i just switched to fulvic when i add phosphates in the first 2 weeks of veg and bloom, and use humic with my cal mag boron feed with aminos and seaweed extract.
i was using 1/32 teaspoon of humic per gallon on evey feed, and just adding a half teaspoon of fulvic to that immediately made the leaves bigger and stretched out to edges of pot, implying root extending out further.
Well done sir. Very informative video.
thats a good opinion im sure the opposite can be argued. id love to hear the other side debate
We'd all be better off if we simply followed the recommendations provided by our local county extension office for our grass type. We wouldn't need to waste endless hours watching useless videos of so called lawn gurus cutting grass and applying the latest products sold by other lawn gurus who pay for them to use their products!
George, I totally get what you mean. But I would disagree. Even county extension office has are all over the place. I think if we all followed the MLSN, the applicability would be way more consistent. I apologize, I know I'm nitpicking
George get a soil test. It's not rocket science
@@johnbiggins2105 Nobody does a better job than I do when submitting soil tests! My 13,000 sq/ft lawn is divided into 8 different zones. I take 6" cores based on a 10' x 10' grid from each individual zone. By the time I'm finished, I probably have at a minimum 125 to 150 separate cores. I submit 9 samples. 8 samples from the 8 individual zones and one comprehensive sample that mixes soil from all 8 zones into one. The PH for each zone is corrected to 6.5 PH based on the report. At the end my entire lawn has a consistent 6.5 PH across all zones. Each zone also receives fertilizer based on that particular zones reccomendations. So I may do 10-10-10 on one zone, 16-4-8 on another, and 32-0-0 on another.
@@georgewilson3299 Just dig up the first 2ft of soil across your entire yard and mix it up and putt it back down. It is going to save you a lot of time and money so you can start with an even slate at this rate ROFL.
Have to say it's a little ironic seeing a testosterone ad in a humic acid is a scam video
This is extremely interesting. Have you ever thought of challenging Lawncology to a debate? That would be very good and maybe funny debate on RUclips! 😊😅
Another good debate would be with "How To with Doc". I think that guy puts humic acid on his breakfast cereal.
@@patstevens7159 now that is funny, but I think it's also accurate. Maybe a little humic acid on top of his grape nuts.
Maybe I missed it, but it sounded like all of these studies were in sandy soils. Were any of them in clay soils? Would there be any potential for additional benefits or drawbacks of humic/fulvic acids in clay soils? Seems like they would stay in the soil longer and be able to do more work on the soil than a quick-draining sandy soil.
There were more in sand than clay, but yes there were clay studies, with no measurable effect on how these researchers defined soil health, moisture retention, compaction, CEC, etc. But the realized nitrogen management benefits did have good results.
This is a good point that without really defining the soil clearly it is hard to paint a broad conclusion. However, one would assume that sandy soils would be less humis and thus would get the most potential benefit.
thank you for putting this together.
So 100 mg? Per?
👍 Amen!
Great video, I know lots of time and effort goes into making a video with the amount of real studies you referenced.
Lawn care reminds me of audiophile snake oil. Cables and power conditioners can make a difference, but not nearly as much as treating the reflection points in the room. Worry about Ph first, and then NPK, then maybe, maybe soil conditioning. Every industry is just trying to extract cash from you, and I’ll admit my journey in both have resulted in some ticks in the L column along the way.
I guess bottom line for me is, not gonna buy humic acid next season.
Excellent info. Thank you sir
i thought you covered the humic acid thing when you created your fertilizer. appreciate the deeper dive.
And what happened to that fertilizer?
What works for zoysia tropical weather
Could you do one on a glacier rock dust or whatever the hell that is people think that goes into the garden and it activate immediately it takes years for that stuff to to activate
Great idea!
im so tempted to just use compost for everything and never mention a compound ever again
I mean, I get it!
Bro, I'm not trying to be one of those people to give you a hard time, But I work With forklifts every day, if My boss ever seen me on my cell phone operating, I would lose my job on the spot.
Dude, I get it, and it's honestly good for me to hear. I get way too complacent around them. I'm an owner/operator, so i should do a better job prioritizing safety.
If you say or think humic or fulvic acid should not be used in gardening or any type of growing, you have NO idea what you’re talking about. They are used solely for breaking down heavy metals, in commercial grows. If you don’t use them you’ll fail any state testing for organic arsenic, high aluminum levels ect. If you don’t know what your talking about, why spread bad or uninformed internet research? Do your own research, send in soil locally. Some inputs are not for the veg or roots like humic which is meant for treating the soil not plant. This is a very bad video for anyone wanting to learn how to grow anything from grass to commercial products.
My video is arguably the most comprehensive review of published data related to growing grass with humic substances on the internet.
Please cite your sources or GTFO.
EXCELLENT
More great content. Thanks Matt👍
What about humic acid for neutralizing chlorine?
I'm not sure I've ever seen chlorine toxicity issues in turfgrass, so not my area of expertise. Chloride in centipede grass, but chloride=/chlorine
So many claims of positive things it does many big companys like down to earth using it in their products its very hard fo me to belive they would use it if it did not work ., maybe all the humic acid isent the same ? Their must be other testing that shows it does work and user feedback too .
Hey Matt, I was looking at the Hone Health online and had a few questions about it. I’m not sure if this is the right video to ask… What would be the difference from Hone to going to get bloodwork and having my doc review the results? Is that what it’s really all about or more?
Wait, what?????
6 yrs ago you put out a vid touting humic 12 benefits, even linked greene county products???
What gives??
Just watched a video where you talked about the benefits of humic acid in the soil...
You should do a video talking about how watering your lawn is a scam. 😂
For plants yes. Grass. Just why. Y'all love to throw money away huh
Just started watching... might take all day to get through, but either way, Love you *hugs* XOXOXO
So basically it's the 'fifth Humor' that the Greeks couldn't find.... Because it's from the ground. Same mysterious 'liquid' feeling. So is the next big thing the 'sixth Humor' from the sky? It's called dihydrogen monoxide, and it's a miracle cure for your grass!
Brother I'm not cultured enough to understand this but I'm going to go ahead and say, "Yes sir!"
@@TheGrassFactor the Greeks thought your body had four liquid 'humors' (blood, Black bile, yellow bile and phlegm) and that when out of balance caused you to get sick. It's the origin of bloodletting (too much blood in their mind)... Sounds just as good as some of this faith based agronomy!
@@jpguppy08 man that is hilarious!