deerlakejens
ArboristSite Operative
I was just in another thread reading about what stove owners do with their wood ashes and was surprised so many discard them. Although it can vary depending on wood type, most ashes have an analysis of 0-1-3, with the main component being calcium. This basically means they are the equivalent of a low potency fertilizer that will raise soil ph, like lime. Potassium promotes root growth in most plants, especially grasses and most vegetables, so it is ideal to spread on most lawns and gardens unless you are in an alkaline area. You still need to add nitrogen for a balanced feeding but I sure wouldn't waste any of mine. Because it has a phosphorous component, keep it out of waterways unless you enjoy growing algae.