How Humic Acid and Friends Can Save Cold Soil

In the chilly northern farmlands, soil cracks are a significant issue. These cracks form when the ground freezes and thaws, allowing water and soil to wash away—a process known as erosion. Scientists sought to determine if adding special substances could mitigate this problem.

Experimental Setup

Researchers used a laboratory to simulate cold weather and rain. They tested:

• Humic acid (H) alone
• Humic acid mixed with lignosulfonate (L)
• Humic acid mixed with polyacrylamide (P)

They measured crack width and soil loss.

Findings

Untreated Soil

• Largest cracks
• Most soil loss

Humic Acid Alone

• 1% H: Slight improvement
• 2% H: Worsened erosion
• Soil became looser
• Cracks intensified
• More soil washed away

Humic Acid with L or P

• Cracks became finer
• Soil held together better
• Up to 99.62% less erosion

Best Mix: H + P

• Prevented crack expansion
• Reduced erosion the most

Conclusion

This study suggests that combining humic acid with lignosulfonate or polyacrylamide can strengthen soil and protect it from erosion. Farmers in cold regions can use these mixes to maintain soil health and prevent erosion.