By: Steve Roark

Folks that burn wood in stoves or fireplaces have the added chore of disposing of the ashes. It can be a valued organic fertilizer and insect repellant if used properly

Wood ash contains 1-2% phosphorus, 7-10% potassium, plus micronutrients such as iron, manganese, boron, copper, and zinc. The largest component of ash is calcium carbonate, making it useful as a liming agent to neutralize acidic soil. The book recommendation is to apply 5-10 pounds of ash per 100 square feet of garden. For lawns the recommendation is 10-15 pounds per thousand square feet. Care should be taken not to apply too much, which could result in soil that is too alkaline for proper plant growth. Soil testing is a good idea if you’re unsure. Be sure that freshly spread ashes don’t come in contact with germinating seeds or sensitive new plant roots. Also, avoid using wood ash around blueberries, azaleas, or other acid-loving plants.

If you store some ash until spring, it can be used for insect control. Spreading a circle of wood ash around the base of plants has been used as a deterrent for maggots, cutworms, cucumber beetles, squash borers, spider mites, potato bugs, and slugs. Stored ash must be protected from rain prevent nutrients from leaching out. Important note: ALWAYS let wood ash cool before storing or disposal. Hot wood ashes have caused many a wildfire and house fire. They can hold heat and embers much longer than is realized. To play it safe you should wear gloves and protective eye wear when handling ash, as it is an alkaline and could irritate the skin and eyes.

Historically ash was used by early pioneers to make lye by leaching it with water. Lye is a key ingredient to make soap. If you want to try your hand at making soap from scratch, there’s plenty of information on the internet.