It has often been used as asoil amendment in gardens.
Is it safe to use wood ash in the garden?
As with most gardening questions, the answer is “it depends.”
The Spruce / Michelle Becker
You have to know a little about both your soil and the ashes themselves.
Read on to find out if wood ash is good for your needs.
Benefits for Soil
Ashes from fireplacesand wood-burning stoves can be a good source of calcium and potassium.
In general, if your soil has a potassium deficiency, wood ash might be a good amendment.
Approximately four cups of wood ash can be substituted for one pound of aglime or agricultural lime.
How to Use Wood Ash
You never want to overdo it with wood ash.
Before you apply it, test your soil’s pH.
Sift wood ash to remove large charcoal pieces and any active embers.
Wood ash particles are fine and can easily be blown by the wind; avoid applying when windy.
The safest way to store wood ash is in a metal bin or container with a metal lid.
Store the metal bin on concrete, stone, or brick surface, and never on wood.
And, keep it outside.
And since wood ash raises the soil pH, heavy metals should not be a problem.
Potassium in wood ash often boosts flowering and fruiting.
In the case of wood ash, it has several alternate uses.
Using Wood Ash in the Home Garden.University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension.
