Gardening Questions and Answers

A new gardening question of the day appears every day of the year on the front page of Almanac.com. Below is the answer to one of the questions from our Gardening Questions and Answers Archive where you can find over 400 more gardening questions (with answers!).

Question:

Please tell me about ashes from a wood-burning fireplace. How much can I use in the garden? Are they good for blueberry bushes and asparagus?

Answer:

Wood ashes are good for the garden because they contain potash and lime. Apply them to the soil in the spring or fall, 4 to 6 pounds per 100 square feet. However, fresh wood ashes will form lye when first applied, so do not use them on plants in active growth. It is best to apply ashes before planting and see that they are thoroughly mixed into the soil. They are good for most plants, especially root crops and fruit trees. Wood ashes should never be used on acid-loving plants like blueberry bushes.

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