How Humates Are Helping Farmers Improve Efficiency in a Changing Regulatory Landscape
As soil health, water efficiency, and input costs continue to dominate conversations across agriculture, Russell Taylor of Live Earth is right in the middle of one of farming’s fastest-growing topics: humates and soil amendments. In a wide-ranging interview, Taylor explains what humates are, how they work, and why they are becoming increasingly important for growers heading into 2026—especially in California.
Live Earth mines and manufactures humate from an ancient plant deposit in central Utah. Taylor describes humate as extremely old compost—plant material that was buried and decomposed millions of years ago in a semi-tropical environment. Today, that material is processed into soil amendments designed to improve nutrient retention, water efficiency, and overall soil performance.
Regulations, Labels, and Why 2026 Matters
Humates fall into a regulatory gray area between fertilizers and pesticides. Taylor explains that while fertilizers are regulated at the state level, pesticides fall under federal oversight. Because soil amendments were never clearly defined when laws were written, some products have faced unnecessary regulatory pressure based on label claims.
California, however, has played a leading role in revising plant biostimulant regulations. Taylor says upcoming label changes through the California Department of Food and Agriculture in 2026 are favorable for manufacturers of humic and fulvic acid products, helping clarify how soil amendments fit into the market.
From Sports Turf to Almond Orchards
Live Earth products are used anywhere roots grow—row crops, tree nuts, vineyards, citrus, and even professional sports turf. Taylor points to the Rose Bowl Stadium as an example, where humates are used beneath sod to help retain nutrients and water in the root zone.
The same principle applies to farming. Humates help nutrients stay available longer, improving nutrient use efficiency. Taylor shared results from corn trials where the same amount of nitrogen fertilizer produced more bushels simply by blending it with humic acid.
Addressing Water, Salt, and Marginal Soils
In California, water quality and salinity remain major challenges. Humates help mitigate salt stress by improving soil structure and water movement, allowing plants to hydrate more effectively. Taylor says these products are especially valuable in soils with low organic matter, high salinity, or water retention issues.
Looking ahead, Taylor believes some land will need to transition out of production, while other marginal soils can still be made productive with the right tools. That’s where soil amendments like humates continue to fit.
A Farmer-Focused Approach
Taylor, a family farmer himself and the 2023 National Certified Crop Advisor of the Year, emphasizes practicality. Live Earth sells through local ag distributors and works directly with growers on trials, soil tests, and fertility programs. The goal isn’t to use less fertilizer—but to use it better.
For growers navigating rising costs, water regulations, and long-term sustainability, Taylor believes humates should be part of the conversation.
🎧 Listen to the full interview to hear Russell Taylor break down soil health, regulations, real-world trial results, and where California agriculture is headed next.