Chemical Studies and Some Properties of Humic Substances Extracted from Soil and Organic Manures

The function of humus in the soils might be considered three-fold; physical: modifyling the color, texture, moisture holding capacity, and aeration of the soil. , chemical : influencing the solubility of certain soil minerals and increasing the buffering properties of the soil. , biologicals : by serving as a source of (energy) for the development of soil microorganisms.. The object of this investigation was study certain properties of humus substances extracted from soil, manures, and composted wheat and clover straw and cotton stalks, and to investigate its influence on structure and water retaining capacity of sandy soil.