Guidelines for Using Charcoal Ash in the Garden
Wood ash generated from burning wood in firepits and fireplaces can be utilized to balance pH levels and provide nutrients to plants in garden beds. But when it comes to charcoal ash, is it beneficial for plants or best to steer clear of using barbecue ash in the garden? Learn how to determine if charcoal ash is suitable for your plants and discover alternative ways to repurpose charcoal ash post-grilling season.
Expert Insight:
Robert Westerfield, a horticulturalist at the University of Georgia, sheds light on the subject.
Can Charcoal Ash be Applied in Gardens?
Not all charcoal products are the same, and the suitability of using charcoal ash in your garden hinges on the type of charcoal used for grilling.
Lump charcoal, crafted from pure wood without any harmful additives, is deemed safe for gardening purposes due to its natural composition. However, Westerfield advises against using charcoal ash from charcoal briquettes, which are typically infused with toxic components like petroleum, tar, and coal dust. The ashes from charcoal briquettes should be disposed of in the trash rather than added to the garden, as they could elevate pH levels to undesirable levels for plant growth.
Beneficial Aspects of Charcoal Ash for Gardens:
While charcoal briquette ash may pose risks to plants, lump charcoal ash shares similar benefits with wood ash in terms of enhancing garden soil:
– pH Adjustment: Wood and lump charcoal ash possess alkaline properties that can help balance soil pH levels, similar to garden lime.
– Nutrient Enrichment: Ash from wood and lump charcoal contains essential macro- and micro-nutrients such as calcium and potassium, along with phosphorous, copper, and boron, which are vital for plant growth.
– Composting Enhancement: Charcoal ash can aid in regulating the pH of overly acidic compost and enriching it with additional nutrients.
Potential Risks of Charcoal Ash for Plants:
While lump charcoal ash can offer advantages to gardens, it is essential to be mindful of potential drawbacks if not used correctly:
– Contaminants: Charcoal briquette ash may contain chemical additives unsuitable for food gardens, necessitating caution in selecting lump charcoal from reliable sources free of chemical treatments.
– Alkaline Soil Effects: Excessive application of charcoal ash can elevate soil pH excessively, hindering plant growth. It is advisable to conduct soil tests and apply ash moderately.
– Impact on Acid-Loving Plants: Plants that thrive in acidic soils, such as blueberries and azaleas, may be adversely affected by the alkaline nature of charcoal ash, impacting their growth.
By understanding the distinctions between charcoal types and practicing cautious application methods, you can make informed decisions on using charcoal ash to benefit your garden effectively.
Using excessive amounts of charcoal ash in soil can lead to nutrient deficiencies and imbalances that may harm beneficial microbes and contain excess salts. This can be particularly problematic for plants sensitive to salt. Here are three ways to repurpose charcoal ash around the house:
1. Recycle leftover charcoal lumps for future fires and use the cooled ash in your garden or home. Remember to wear gloves and goggles when handling ash.
2. Create a DIY glass or metal cleaner by mixing lump charcoal ash with water to form a paste. Use this paste to clean metal and glass surfaces or remove water stains on wooden furniture. Test the paste in a hidden area first.
3. Deter slugs and snails by creating a barrier around plants with lump charcoal ash. These pests tend to avoid crossing over the ash.
4. While not a de-icer, lump charcoal ash can be sprinkled on icy patches in winter to improve traction.
For more information, refer to the original article on The Spruce.
