Using Ashes in the Garden

There is a misconception that there are a lot of plant nutrients in wood ashes from the stove or fireplace so people will routinely add ashes to their garden. Wherever this notion came from, much like the Epsom salt myth, this old wives’ tale should go away. Wood ashes can be a valuable source of calcium and potassium but have very little phosphorous and no nitrogen. Most of the soils in Butler County do not need calcium or potassium so adding ashes to the garden will not provide the nutrients the plants need. The biggest issue with wood ashes is that they raise the pH of the soil. Do not use wood ash if your soil pH is alkaline (more than 7.0). If you know from a soil test that your garden soil is acidic, then ashes can help to neutralize some of that acidity. Unfortunately, most of our soils have too high of a pH, and adding ashes makes it worse. Your best bet is to find somewhere other than your garden to dispose of the wood ashes from fireplaces.

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu