Curing your bonfire night hangover

A bonfire can be spectacular and a joyful celebration. Recovering a garden after a bonfire involves addressing the damage and taking steps to rejuvenate the soil and plants. Here's a step-by-step guide to help your lawn bounce back.

1. Assess the Damage: Look for areas affected by ash, heat, or debris. Identify any dead or damaged plants.

2. Clean Up Debris: Remove any leftover bonfire debris, ashes, and unburned materials.

3. Soil Testing: Test the soil to check its pH and nutrient levels. Bonfires can affect soil pH due to the ash, so you may need to adjust it accordingly.

4. pH Adjustment: If the soil pH is too high due to ash, you may need to lower it. Add sulphur or elemental sulphur to lower the pH. If it's too low, add lime to raise the pH. Follow the recommended application rates based on your soil test results.

5. Organic Matter: Improve the soil's structure and fertility by adding organic matter. Compost, well-rotted manure, or leaf mold can be beneficial. Incorporate this organic matter into the soil to increase its water-holding capacity and nutrient content.

6. Replanting: If need be, replace any dead or damaged grass and other plants with new, healthy ones and water consistently. recovery and establishment.

7. Protect from Future Bonfires: To prevent future damage, consider creating a designated fire pit or bonfire area away from the garden.

Recovery may take time. Be patient and allow your lawn to slowly regain its vitality.