Humate is a natural by-product of composting. For quicker results, or where it is not possible to incorporate compost (such as established plantings), adding Humate in the form of Leonardite will help. Humate will increase the amount of available carbon, help balance pH values, promote strong root growth, make existing minerals more available, also the activity of micro-organism is fostered, so earthworm activity will be stimulated. Furthermore applying Humate to a soil increases the water holding capacity and the formation of certain enzymes, that increases the plant's resistance to stress, coming from transplanting, temperature extremes or drought.
Giving humate to a soil, also affects the germination of seeds and the accumulation of vitamins, sugar, protein and chlorophyl in the plants. Humic acids also affect the compounds that plants use for its metabolism, and stimulate the absorption of mineral elements through the leaves. Thus it increases the efficiency of foliar fertilizers, but also reduces chemical requirements. Humic matter has been shown to increase the uptake of nitrogen by plants, and to increase soil nitrogen utilization efficiency. Chlorosis in plants has been prevented or corrected by humate application, probably the result of the ability of humate to hold soil iron in a form, which can be assimilated. This phenomenon can be particularly effective in alkaline, calcareous soils, which are normally deficient in available iron and low in organic matter content. So, in sum one may say, if humate is applied to plants, a vibrant look is provided to a floral garden. Roses for example, treated with humate can be expected to demonstrate an extraordinary acceleration in growth, will tolerate heat and drought unusually well, and will be better able to survive cold winters. Flowers and foliage will be tougher and more substantive, and flower petals more resistant to sun scorch and fading. Especially the foliar application seems to be beneficial to flowers.
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