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How to use BBQ ashes in your garden

It's the season to BBQ. But did you know that the wood ashes can be used in the garden in several beneficial ways?


  1. Boost your plants' nutrition. Wood ashes contain potassium, calcium, and other trace elements that can be beneficial for plants. However, they are alkaline, so they should be used in moderation, especially if your soil is already alkaline. Test your soil pH before applying ashes. If your soil is acidic, you can use wood ashes to raise the pH slightly. Spread a thin layer of ashes over the soil and mix them in well. Avoid using ashes around acid-loving plants like blueberries or azaleas.

  2. Wood ashes can be added to compost piles to provide a source of carbon and help balance the nitrogen-rich materials in the compost. Sprinkle small amounts of ashes throughout the layers of organic matter in your compost bin or pile.

  3. Ashes from wood can deter certain garden pests. Sprinkling a thin line of ashes around plants can act as a barrier against slugs, snails, and some crawling insects. The abrasive texture of the ashes can deter these pests from crossing the line.

  4. Fertilizer for specific plants: Some plants benefit from the nutrients present in wood ashes. For example, tomatoes and other plants in the nightshade family appreciate the extra potassium. You can sprinkle a small amount of ashes around the base of these plants, being careful not to overdo it.

Remember to only use wood ashes from natural hardwood, such as oak or maple. Do not use ashes from charcoal briquettes, as they may contain additives or chemicals that are harmful to plants. Always use ashes in moderation, as excessive amounts can raise soil pH too much and harm plants, and avoid acid-loving plants.

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