Is wood ash really good in the garden?
QWe use wood burners to heat the house and produce vast quantities of wood ash. How, when and where can I use it on the garden and what are its benefits?
David butler, North Devon
AWood ash is a good soil conditioner, especially for intractable clay. Containing 2-6% potash, which helps fruit ripen and improves resistance to diseases and adverse conditions, it is also rich in calcium, which benefits clematis and other lime-loving plants.
Keep it bagged and dry until you wish to use it, from April to September.
Ideally, sprinkle it over the soil at 4-8oz (112-224g) per m2 and let the rain wash it in. You can also add it to your compost heap.
Warning: Keep it away from heathers, rhododendrons and other ericaceous (lime-hating) plants.