Can humic acids improve production in mature organic northern highbush blueberry?
Overview
A 3-year study was conducted to investigate the effects of adding humic acids to an organic blueberry fertigation program. The objective is to see if adding organic-approved humic acids to a standard fertilization program in a mature organic blueberry production system will increase yield and affect soil quality and plant nutrients. The study compared the yield, fruit, and leaf nutrient concentration, and soil nutrients of 'Duke' and 'Liberty' blueberry cultivars with and without humic acid application. Over the three years, adding humic acids did not significantly improve yield or alter soil characteristics and plant nutrient levels. The study found no substantial evidence to support the additional cost of adding humic acids to an already healthy and productive organic blueberry system.