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Can Plants Absorb Humus?

Published in Plant Nutrition 1 min read

Yes, plants can indirectly absorb the nutrients from humus.

Humus itself isn't directly absorbed by plants. Instead, it acts as a nutrient reservoir and soil conditioner, playing a vital role in plant nutrition. Here's how:

  • Humus Decomposes: Microorganisms in the soil break down humus into simpler, soluble nutrients.
  • Nutrient Release: This decomposition process releases essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in forms that plants can absorb. These nutrients are often in the form of soluble ions.
  • Improved Soil Structure: Humus improves soil structure, making it easier for plant roots to grow and access nutrients and water.
  • Water Retention: Humus helps the soil retain water, which is essential for nutrient uptake by plant roots.
  • Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): Humus has a high CEC, meaning it can hold onto positively charged nutrient ions (cations) like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, preventing them from being leached away. Plant roots can then access these nutrients through cation exchange.

Therefore, while plants don't directly absorb the complex organic molecules that make up humus, they do absorb the nutrients released during its decomposition. This makes humus a crucial component of healthy, fertile soil that supports plant growth.