Got a question? Ask Danny.

Danny Lipford Expert Advice for your Lawn & Garden TV Host of Today's Homeowner® and home expert for The Weather Channel

Garden & Lawn

Win a Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Riding Mower

Advertise on this site

Ashes for Plants

Video, Lawn and Garden, Organic Gardening, Soil & Fertilizer Published 02/07/2007 by Danny Lipford


The potassium in wood ashes encourages strong stems in plants while the phosphorus in the ashes encourages root growth. Soils low in potassium often benefits from wood ash but be careful with acid-loving plants such as blueberries, rhododendrons and azaleas. To use wood ash safely, add a small amount to your compost pile. Here the wood ash will help maintain a neutral condition, which is the best environment to help microorganisms break down organic materials. Sprinkle ashes on each layer of compost as the pile is built up and allow the ash to dissolve in the compost. Also, be sure not to use any pressure-treated wood ashes.



Leave a Comment