Зола древесная как удобрение для каких растений: Зола – что это за удобрение, и как правильно его применять

Древесная зола как удобрение для огорода и комнатных растений

Выращивание урожая – хлопотное дело, которое требует от огородника определенных знаний и умений. В первую очередь, необходимо понимать, как ухаживать не только за конкретным растением, но и почвой, которая нуждается в периодической подкормке, иначе ее плодородность существенно снизится.

Опытные аграрии знают, как, когда и чем стоит подкармливать почву и растения, чтобы получить хороший и качественный урожай. Одной из наиболее популярных подкормок среди экологических удобрений считается древесная зола.

Что содержит древесная зола и чем полезна как удобрение

Древесная зола – это уникальное по своему составу органической удобрение, содержащие неимоверное количество элементов, необходимых для поддержания плодородности почвы. В составе подкормки, которую выбирают большая часть садоводов и аграриев, находится:

1. Калий.
2. Фосфор.
3. Кальций.
4. Марганец.
5. Фосфор.
6. Известь.
7. Бор.
8. Железо.
9. Цинк и др.

Всего в удобрении насчитывается около трех десятков различных элементов, которые положительно воздействуют на питательность почвы. Особенно оно богато К, Р и Са. И даже несмотря на то, что в составе золы нет азота, она все равно увеличивает его количество в почве, за счет повышения активности азотофиксирующих бактерий.

Состав удобрения может варьироваться в зависимости от того, какой материал был использован для его изготовления. Так, зола из молодых деревьев или травянистых растений содержит много калия, а зола из дуба и ясеня богата кальцием. А вот хлор в таком удобрении отсутствует, поэтому его можно использовать для подкормки ягодных культур, чувствительных к этому элементу.

Любая ли зола подходит для растений

Зола – продукт сгорания, который может стать прекрасным удобрением для культурных растений. Однако далеко не любую золу можно использовать в качестве подкормки. В первую очередь, важно обращать внимание на исходный материал. Не стоит использовать золу, полученную в результате сгорания мусора, предметов, обработанных химическим веществами, глянцевой бумаги. Также не рекомендовано использовать золу из каменного угля.

При выборе золы, полученной в результате сгорания деревьев или травы, важно ориентироваться на качественный состав почвы и растения, которые на ней произрастают. Так, при недостатке фосфора лучше использовать угли хвойных деревьев, а вот при необходимости увеличить количество калия лучше отдать предпочтения золе из травянистых растений или виноградной лозы. Помимо этого стоит учитывать, что некоторые растения предпочитают расти в кислых почвах, а пепел сдвигает рН грунта в щелочную сторону. Особенно это касается торфяной золы.

Чем особенно богато удобрение

Деревья и травянистые растения содержат большое количество элементов, которые практически не исчезают в процессе сгорания. Это позволяет использовать древесные угли в качестве универсального удобрения, которое можно вносить в почву в любое время года. Такая подкормка не только улучшит качественный состав грунта, напитывая его фосфором, калием, кальцием и рядом других макро- и микроэлементами, но и структурирует его.

Полезно знать!

К тому же зола – это «долгоиграющая» подкормка, которая действует на протяжении 2-4 лет после внесения в грунт. Также удобрение делает почву более кислой и рыхлой, что благотворно сказывается на ее водо- и воздухопроницаемости. Но главной положительной чертой золы как удобрения остается ее легкая усвояемость растениями.

Как применять золу для огорода

Аграрии могут применять древесный уголь не только как подкормку, но и в качестве инсектицида и средства для предупреждения развития заболеваний.

Для защиты от болезней

Средство помогает справиться с мучнистой росой, которой страдают как ягодные, так и овощные культуры. Для того чтобы избавиться от болезни, достаточно опрыскивать растение 2-3 раза в 30 дней раствором из просеянной золы. Для этого необходимо 300 г сырья прокипятить в течение 30 минут на медленном огне, процедить и увеличить количество раствора до 10 л путем добавления воды. Для повышения эффективности в жидкость можно добавить 30-40 г мыла.

Раствор также можно использовать в качестве борьбы с вишневым слизистым пилильщиком, серой гнилью земляники. Эффективен он и против тли и земляной блохи, уничтожая вредителей в считанные дни. Использовать раствор рекомендовано вечером, и когда отсутствуют осадки или сильные порывы ветра.

Как удобрение

Соединения, которые содержит зола, благоприятно сказываются на развитии овощей, ягодных культур и даже цветов. Это делает ее лидером среди органических удобрений. Подкормку зарывают в лунки перед посадкой растений, а ее растворы используют в качестве жидкости для питательного полива.

Зола отлично подойдет в качестве удобрения для любых типов почв, за исключением солонцеватых. Особенно актуально ее использовать для чрезмерно кислых, тяжелых и болотных почв, которые не могут похвастаться плодородностью из-за недостатка калия и других микроэлементов. Для повышения эффективности продукта сгорания его смешивают с перегноем или торфом в соотношении 1 к 2 или к 4. К тому же такую смесь гораздо легче равномерно распределить по поверхности участка.

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При высадке молодых овощных культур достаточно взять 8-10 г золы, смешанной с землей или перегноем, в расчете на 1 лунку. А вот при подкормке овощей лучше придерживаться схемы – 30-50 г на 1 кв. м.

Для удобрения садовых деревьев нужно брать 100-150 г удобрения, смешанного с грунтом, на 1 кв. м. При этом не стоит оставлять подкормку на поверхности земли, это может лишь навредить деревьям. Оптимальной глубиной внесения удобрения под садовые культуры является 8-10 см. Во избежание потери азота не следует смешивать пепел с навозом, птичьим пометом и сульфатом аммония.

Нормы внесения древесной золы

Несмотря на то, что продукт сгорания деревьев и стеблей трав является универсальной подкормкой, использовать его нужно правильно. Каждое растение нуждается в своем количестве питательных веществ. От вида культуры зависит и способ внесения удобрения.

Для комнатных цветов

Золу можно использовать и для подкормки комнатных цветов в виде настоя. Для его приготовления необходимо взять 3 ст. л. сухого сырья, добавить его в 1 л воды и оставить настаиваться в течение 7 дней. Жидкость рекомендовано встряхивать ежедневно для ускорения растворения частиц. Полученный настой перед применением процеживается и разводится водой в соотношении 1 к 3.

Важно!

Большинство комнатных цветов – нежные и привередливые растения, поэтому вносить подкормки следует аккуратно, не более 100 мл настоя на 1 кг почвы в горшке.

Осыпание цветов пеплом или их опрыскивание мыльно-зольной жидкостью помогут избавиться от земляных блох, которые часто покушаются на комнатные растения. Главное – после использования раствора не опрыскивать обработанное растение водой в течение 5 дней, а также оберегать его от прямых солнечных лучей.

Для винограда и прочих ягодных культур

Продукт сгорания используется и для подкормки ягодных культур. На такое удобрение отлично реагирует смородина, малина, клубника, земляника, виноград и плодовые деревья. Последние хорошо реагируют на добавление золы в посадочные ямы и приствольные круги. Для этого по периметру ствола выкапывают канаву глубиной 10 см и заливают в нее зольный раствор, который готовится в пропорции 1 ст. сухого сырья на 5 л воды.

Для подкормки смородины и малины лучше всего использовать сухой пепел, который следует вносить по 3 ст. под каждый куст. А вот виноград нуждается в удобрении несколько раз в сезон. Наиболее оптимальной подкормкой для лозы является зольный раствор, которым следует опрыскивать листья после захода солнца в безветренную погоду. Для приготовления питательной жидкости достаточно взять классический настой золы, разведенный водой в соотношении 1 к 5.

Клубнику стоит подкармливать сухим удобрением перед мульчированием почвы и после плодоношения, насыпая его между рядами. Рекомендованная норма — 1 ст. подкормки на 1 кв. м земли.

Для огурцов и помидоров

В процессе перекопки участка перед высадкой рассады огурцов почву рекомендовано удобрить, взяв 1 ст. сухой подкормки на 1 кв. м почвы. Такая манипуляция ускорит процесс укоренения молодого растения и увеличит шансы на богатый урожай. Не лишним будет и внесение пепла непосредственно под рассаду. Вполне достаточно насыпать 1 ст. л. удобрения в каждую лунку. Подобной схемы можно придерживаться и при высадке рассады томатов. Однако в процессе подготовки участка для их высадки лучше использовать 3 ст. золы на 1 кв. м грунта.

Для других овощей

Помимо огурцов и томатов, золой можно подкармливать практически все овощные культуры, включая пасленовые.

Картофель особенно хорошо отзывается на несгораемый остаток, поэтому пепел активно используют все опытные огородники на протяжении всего сезона выращивания культуры. Удобряют участок в процессе перекопки в расчете 1 ст. на 1 кв. м. Аналогичным образом можно подготовить землю и под посадку морковки, лука, капусты, петрушки, свеклы, бобовых и редиса. А вот перед высадкой рассады перца и баклажанов лучше использовать 3 ст. сухого удобрения на 1 кв. м земли.

Насыщает почвы фосфором, калием, кальцием и другими питательными элементами.

Структурирует грунт.

Повышает урожайность.

Практически не содержит хлор.

Оказывает длительное действие (до 4 лет).

Улучшает водо- и воздухопроницаемость.

Активизирует почвенные микроорганизмы, что ускоряет разложение органики.

Действует как инсектицид.

Защищает растения от различных болезней.

Стимулирует рост семян.

Ускоряет укоренение рассады.

Является универсальным удобрением.

При чрезмерном или неправильном применении слишком ощелачивает почву.

Не подходит для щелочных почв.

Не совместима с азотистыми удобрениями.

Быстро напитывается влагой, что негативно сказывается на ее эффективности в качестве удобрения.

Отзывы об использовании древесного пепла

Алина: «Всегда удобряю участок перед посадкой картофеля золой. Эффект потрясающий. Урожай всегда хороший и качественный, растение не болеет. К тому же от такой подкормки никакого вреда, она же экологически чистая, без химикатов. В прошлом году попробовала удобрить землю золой перед посадкой томатов и редиса, и также осталась довольна».

Иван: «Зола – действительно хорошее удобрение, но далеко не универсальное. Ее, как и другие подкормки, следует вносить осторожно, без лишнего усердия. В противном случае можно получить излишне щелочную землю, на которой вряд ли что-то вырастет. К тому же с ней игры плохи, учитывая длительный эффект, который сохраняется несколько лет».

Константин: «Считаю золу подарком для любого огородника. Дешевое, легкое в применении удобрение, которое подходит для любых овощных культур. Древесный уголь вношу в почву ежегодно, и с такой же частотой радуюсь богатому урожаю кабачков, огурцов, помидоров и картофеля».

Древесный уголь – удобрение, которое содержит большое количество элементов, необходимых для роста и развития овощных культур, садовых деревьев и даже комнатных цветов. Именно универсальность сделала золу экологически чистым удобрением №1 как среди опытных аграриев, так и среди огородников-любителей.

90000 Plants That Like Wood Ash | Home Guides 90001 90002 By Casandra Maier Updated December 17, 2018 90003 90002 Ashes from wood burning stoves and wood burning fires have a direct use in the garden landscape. The ashes of untreated hard and soft woods are used as mulch or compost components. Wood ashes add nutrients and repair deficiencies, in addition to having an alkalizing effect on overly acidic soils. Wood ash is not suitable for use on all plants. However, there are many ornamental and vegetable plants that directly benefit from wood ash mulches or compost.90003 90006 Plants With Potassium Deficiencies 90007 90002 Plants require potassium for healthy flowering and fruiting. Use wood ashes as a soil amendment for plants suffering from potassium deficiencies. Potassium deficiencies appear in plants as a browning or discoloration of leaf edges. It is important to test the soil and rule out any other possible diseases, but if potassium is lacking, wood ashes add it to the soil. In addition to potassium, wood ashes contain other essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium and phosphorus.90003 90002 Consider using young hardwood ashes when treating a severe potassium deficiency. Young hardwoods like oak or maple contain up to 7 percent potassium, while softwood ashes and older hardwood ashes may contain as little as 3 percent potassium. 90003 90012 Plants in Overly Acidic Soils 90007 90002 As wood ash has a liming effect on the soil, you can use it on the lawn, on ornamental flowers, plants and shrubs as well as in the garden to reduce soil acidity. Some plants thrive in neutral to alkaline soils, as opposed to overly acidic soils.For example, garden plants like artichokes, tomatillos, greens like collards and arugula, and brassicas like broccoli require alkaline soil for optimal health. 90003 90002 Because wood ash raises the pH of your soil, always test the soil to ensure that it does not become overly alkaline. Never use wood ashes on acid-loving plants like berries, including raspberries, strawberries and blueberries. Other acid-loving plants include rhododendrons, fruit trees, azaleas, potatoes and parsley. 90003 90018 Plants Overrun by Pests and Disease 90007 90002 Use wood ash on alkaline-loving plants to keep various pests at bay.Cooled, untreated wood ashes directly from a fire and applied as mulch, or wood ashes mixed into compost, are useful around cabbage and onion plants to keep away root maggots. Wood ash mulch or compost also keeps slugs and snails from overrunning alkaline-loving flowers and ornamental plants. 90003 90002 In some cases, raising the pH of the soil with wood ashes is helpful in disease elimination. Brassicas like broccoli and cauliflower are commonly affected by club root disease. Raising the pH of the soil with wood ashes helps to eliminate club root.90003 90024 Considerations and Application 90007 90002 Always use caution when choosing to implement wood ash in the garden landscape. Do not use wood ash if the soil pH is 7.0 or higher, as the addition of wood ash further increases the soil pH. While some plants thrive in alkalinity, overly alkaline soils cause damage to other plants. Avoid using wood ash if there are already high amounts of potassium in the soil. 90003 90002 Do not use wood ash on plant leaves or directly against the base of plants, or around new plant roots and seedlings during germination, as it has the potential to burn plants.To treat diseases, increase potassium or increase soil alkalinity, use wood ash at the rate of 1/2 lb per shrub, 10 to 15 lbs per 1,000 square feet of lawn, or 1/2 lb per square yard of garden space. 90003.90000 70+ Uses for Wood Ash 90001 90002 If you’re heating with wood, there’s always plenty of wood ash to go around. While you may be hard-pressed to think of uses for wood ash in a modern home, historically it was used in many different creative ways. Wood ash was a precious asset, used for food preservation, gardening, pottery, pest control, and even cosmetics. 90003 90002 Long before baking soda was discovered, wood ash based leveners allowed for holiday cookies. Our ancestors would not have invented soap without wood ash lye … the list goes on.90003 90002 While some of these uses are merely a historical curiosity, many are still incredibly useful in our modern world. Looking for free garden fertilizer? Natural pest control? Stain and odor removers? Wood ash can do that! 90003 90002 90003 90002 Our homestead is relatively small by modern standards (~ 1200 sq feet) and the walls are nearly a foot thick and super-insulated. To save on wood (and work), we only heat our house to around 62 degrees day and night. Still, cold Vermont winters mean that we burn roughly 4 cords of hardwood each year, or 6 to 8 cords of softwood which has a lower BTU.90003 90002 A cord of hardwood produces roughly 5-8 gallons of wood ash, so that means we have around 30-40 gallons of wood ash in the spring. That’s way too much for any single-use, so we’ve had to find creative ways to use what would otherwise be a waste product. 90003 90002 Using up wood ash in your yard and garden is a natural solution. The minerals from the wood are restored to nature where they can be reused again. 90003 90016 90017 Garden Fertilizer 90018 90019 90002 Wood ash contains all the trace minerals from inside a trees wood, which are the building blocks needed for plant health.While it does not contain carbon or nitrogen, those are in ready supply from compost. The University of Vermont recommends about 5 gallons of wood ash per 1,000 square feet of garden. Since wood ash will raise the pH of soils, it’s not good for acid-loving crops like blueberries or potatoes. 90003 90016 90017 Boost Compost 90018 90019 90002 A small amount of wood ash can help give compost piles a boost. While birds may be beautiful around a backyard compost pile, in rural areas open compost can attract bears.We’ve found that dusting a bit of wood ash on top of the pile helps keep bears and other large omnivores from digging in the scraps as well. 90003 90002 After we started adding wood ash to our compost, we noticed that it was markedly more healthy. Stick a hand into the middle of the pile, and you’ll come out with a palm-full of hard-working worms actively converting everything into nutrient-rich compost. 90003 90002 90003 90016 90017 Control Pond Algae 90018 90019 90002 Since wood ash contains micronutrients that plants need to thrive, it can also help strengthen aquatic plants.The potassium in wood ash can boost rooted aquatic plants in a pond, making them better able to compete with algae. That in turn, slows the growth of algae in a pond. Be careful not to add too much. 90003 90002 Use some rough math to calculate the volume of your pond, and then add about 1 tablespoon per 1,000 gallons of water. 90003 90016 90017 Preventing Plant Frost Damage to Plants 90018 90019 90002 I’ve heard that dusting plants with wood ash before an early light frost can help prevent frost damage.It makes sense, as the mineral salts in wood ash would lower the freezing point of water without harming the plant tissues as other types of salt might. 90003 90002 Our garden is always packed or undercover early in the season so I tested this method, but it might be worth a try. 90003 90016 90017 Prevent Calcium Deficiency 90018 in Tomatoes 90019 90002 Those ugly black spots on tomatoes are often the result of calcium deficiency. Eggshells and bone meal are often added to tomato planting holes to provide them with calcium, but wood ash can do the same job.Add about 1/4 cup of wood ash to each tomato planting hole and scratch it into the soil before setting out transplants. 90003 90002 A tomato with blossom end rot from calcium deficiency. Wood ash is high in calcium and helps to supplement the soil to prevent this issue. (Image Source) 90003 90016 90017 Raising Soil pH 90018 90019 90002 As noted above, wood ash helps buffer acidic soils and can help raise soil pH if that’s needed on your particular plot. This is handy for most garden vegetables, with the exception of potatoes which grow best in slightly acidic soils.90003 90002 Be aware that not all parts of the world have acidic soils, and if your soils are already alkaline then adding wood ash could cause issues. 90003 90016 90017 Slug and Snail Repellant 90018 90019 90002 Creating a circle of wood ash around crops prevents slugs and snails from crossing into plant beds. We use this around our homegrown shiitake mushrooms, which are particularly susceptible to snails and slugs. 90003 90002 It’s also a good solution for leafy crops like lettuce.The wood ash barrier is only effective until it rains or the ash gets wet, which is unfortunate because you’ll need to reapply regularly. The benefit, on the other hand, is that it’ll wash off easily at harvest time. 90003 90002 Our very first shiitake mushroom 90003 90016 90017 Non-Toxic Ant Repellant Around Kids & Pets 90018 90019 90002 Placing a pile of wood ash on top of an anthill gives them notice that they need to move their nest. It will not kill the nest, but they will have to pack up and relocate, which works great for relocating ants nests away from kids play areas.90003 90016 90081 Protecting Bee Hives from Ants 90082 90019 90002 Generally, bees are capable of defending their own hives from intruders, but with all the challenges they currently face most hives are in a slightly weakened state. They can take all the help they can get! One of my readers suggested making a circle of ash around a beehive to help deter ants. 90003 90002 Since ants will move a hive in the presence of wood ash, it makes sense to me that this would help keep ants from invading a beehive to steal honey.I do not know if it would have unintended consequences, but I think it’s worth a try if ants are getting to your bees. 90003 90002 In theory, a circle of wood ash should be a nontoxic way to deter ants from robbing the hives. If you’ve tested this, I’d love to know how it went. 90003 90016 90081 Dustbath for Poultry 90082 90019 90002 Since wood ash helps treat fleas and other insects, it’s perfect for helping poultry relieve themselves of parasites. Chickens and turkeys naturally dust bath to help clean their feathers of unwanted intruders and adding a bit of wood ash to the bath only helps get the message across.90003 90002 Our turkeys had a particularly bad infestation of avian lice, and we filled a plastic children’s swimming pool with wood ash for them. They dove on it with excitement and spent long hours rolling in the ash. No need to apply pesticides, the birds know how to solve their own problems organically given the right tools. 90003 90002 No need to worry if they eat a bit since wood ash is also an avian mineral supplement … 90003 90016 90081 Chicken Feed Supplement 90082 90019 90002 Since wood ash is high in minerals, it can be good as a food supplement for chickens in small amounts.Community Chickens notes that 90105 «Wood ash offers calcium and potassium. Adding wood ash to your chicken feed (less than 1% ratio) may help to extend a hen’s laying period and can help reduce the smell of chicken droppings. » 90106 90003 90002 One of my readers also mentioned to me that charcoal bits are used to help treat eggbound chickens. A bit of further research and I found that charcoal bits are given to chickens to help prevent diarrhea and treat for intestinal parasites. So the tiny flecks of charcoal in with the ash will also help the chickens.90003 90002 90111 90017 When using ash as a feed supplement, be especially sure that you did not burn anything but clean untreated wood in the stove. 90018 90114 90003 90002 90003 90002 Even if you do not have a «homestead» or a back garden, there’s plenty of ways to use wood ashes around the house, indoors and out. 90003 90016 90017 Natural Ice Melt 90018 90019 90002 Probably one of the most practical uses for wood ash is to use it slowly over the course of the winter as ice melt.The natural minerals in wood ash work the same way as salt does to melt ice on driveways and walkways. Be careful using it near your front door though, tracking wood ash into the house makes a big mess. 90003 90002 We use it as ice melt on our front walkway, and once the ice has melted sweep it to the sides so we do not track it in the house. Chemical de-icing salt really is not that different, and it often gets tracked into the house too. 90003 90002 Winter is a messy time one way or another.At least with wood ash, you do not have to worry about it being toxic to kids and pets, as some walkway salts are. 90003 90016 90017 Stove Glass Cleaner 90018 90019 90002 Adding a bit of water to a small amount of wood ash creates an effective stove glass cleaner. Let the mildly abrasive wood ash scrub the soot off the glass so you can enjoy watching the fire all winter long. 90003 90002 90003 90016 90081 Cleaning Cloudy Headlights 90082 90019 90002 One of my readers told me they 90111 «make a rubbing paste from wood ashes and remove clouded headlights on a vehicle.»90114 It makes sense because road grit and the accumulated exhaust fumes from the car in front of you is not that much different than dirty stove glass. It’s a bit more than Windex can clean but just right for a wood ash scrub and solvent. 90003 90016 90017 Silver Polish 90018 90019 90002 In the same way that wood ash works to clean glass, it can also polish silver. Just dampen a towel and add a bit of wood ash before working some tarnished silver. 90003 90016 90017 Skunk Odor Remover 90018 90019 90002 Wood ashes naturally help neutralize skunk odor on pets.If an animal gets sprayed, dust them thoroughly with wood ash and leave them outside for a few hours before giving them a thorough bath. 90003 90002 While this method is likely effective to an extent and may have been important historically, these days there are many better options. If you have a skunk sprayed animal, use wood ash if you have nothing else on hand, but I’d highly recommend keeping skunk off spray and skunk off pet shampoo on hand if you live in the woods as we do. 90003 90002 90003 90016 90017 Hiding Stains on Paving 90018 90019 90002 Wood ash is naturally grey, and it can help cover up stains on sidewalks and paving.Simply dust a bit on and scuff it in with your boot. 90003 90016 Cleaning Oil Spills 90019 90002 In the same way that wood ash can be used to hide stains on concrete, it can absorb oil spills to help prevent them in the first place. My dad kept a bucket of kitty litter in the garage for cleaning up the garage floor, since it would absorb any spills. Wood ash works just as well, and it’s free. 90003 90016 90017 Cockroach Repellant 90018 90019 90002 Spreading a bit of ash in dark corners of the house or under appliances will keep roaches out.Their hard outer shell does not stand up well to wood ash, and it’ll keep them from setting up shop in your house. 90003 90016 90017 Clothing Moth Repellant 90018 90019 90002 I’ve read that putting a bit of wood ash on stored clothes keeps moths from eating it. While that may work, I’d worry about ash stains. Sources say you can just dust the ash off when you take them out of storage, but I’m skeptical … 90003 90016 90017 Natural Flea Treatment for Pets 90018 90019 90002 You may have heard of using diatomaceous earth on pets to kill fleas naturally.Wood ash works the same way. The tiny particles in the ash leave micro cuts on the hard-bodied fleas, which causes them to dry out and die. 90003 90002 We’ve tried this on our cat and it works well, but you need to wash it out after about 24 hours. A cat is naturally unhappy about cleaning itself when it’s covered in wood ash, so do the treatment and then help your feline friend out with a bath. 90003 90002 90003 90016 90017 Smell Absorber 90018 90019 90002 Similar to baking soda, wood ash can help absorb odors around the house.Try adding a small jar to the fridge to absorb odors. It works even better if there are small pieces of charcoal still left in the ashes to help out. 90003 90016 90017 Desiccant 90018 90019 90002 Wood ash can be used to absorb humidity and help prevent moist areas from developing mold. Place a cup of wood ashes in a damp cupboard or basement room. Again, small chunks of charcoal left in the ashes help for this purpose. 90003 90016 90017 Wood Ash Toothpaste 90018 90019 90002 I’ve heard mixed reports about wood ash toothpaste.The theory is that it works just like modern baking soda toothpaste, but I can not find a reputable source or recipe. Those I can find mention mixing wood ash with bentonite clay and putting that on your toothbrush. To me, it sounds like a recipe for micro-scratches on your enamel and I’m not willing to risk my teeth to test it. 90003 90002 If you have tried wood ash toothpaste, I’d love to hear how it went (and if you found it palatable). 90003 90016 90017 Stain Remover 90018 90019 90002 Sifted wood ash, mixed with water to form a paste, can be rubbed on stains to remove them.It works best if applied as soon as possible after the stain. I would imagine the action is similar to applying baking soda paste as a stain remover. 90003 90002 While I’ve read plenty of sources that verify this, I still worry about the ash actually making more stain than it fixes, but I’ve yet to test it out. 90003 90002 Long before our modern wood stoves and households, humans made fire and therefore wood ash. You can bet if there was a way to put wood ashes to good use they worked hard to find it.Waste not … 90003 90016 90017 Treating Wounds 90018 90019 90002 Wood ash has been used to clean wounds, and modern studies have shown that it actually significantly speeds wound healing. The ash is also effective as an antiseptic. 90003 90002 I’ve been told that wood ash is also used to treat some topical skin conditions. 90003 90016 Bronze Age Medicinal Ash Tattooing (Or Primitive Acupuncture) 90019 90002 An archeological find from тисячі дев’ятсот дев’яносто одна indicates that ash may have been inserted under the skin at injury sites in as a form of medicinal treatment.90003 90002 Ötzi, the oldest iceman ever discovered, was found in the Swiss Alps and dated to around 3300 BC. He is most famous for carrying two mushrooms, Birch Polyspore, and Tinder Polyspore, both known to be medicinal according to modern science indicating very early use mushroom medicine. Beyond that, he’s also the oldest evidence of tattooing in the archeological record, with a total of 61 tattoos. The tattoos themselves were made by inserting wood ash under the skin, in the same way that ink is used today.90003 90002 The most interesting part though is that each of the tattoos corresponds to a location on his body that had an injury. Both chronic pain like injuries such as spinal degeneration, and several acute accidents like injuries in his ankles. It’s thought that the wood ash tattooing was a traditional form of medicine similar to how acupuncture is used today in eastern societies. (Source) 90003 90016 90081 Hide Tanning Wood Ash Pre-Soak 90082 90019 90002 Brain tanning is an ancient method of preserving hides and helps keep them soft and supple for clothing.I found a reference on a brain tanning instructional site that mentions that a wood ash soak was used by Neolithic peoples for tanning, but also by more modern native American peoples: 90003 90002 90105 «Many tribes soaked their skins in wood-ash water prior to scraping. The reason for this is often credited to the ashes causing the hair to fall out. The real value of the ashes lies in the alkalinity’s ability to disrupt the mucoid bonds. It opens the structure in two to four days … By adding ash to your pre-scraping soak, you can get complete brain penetration in one simple braining with fresh hides.»90106 90003 90002 Brain tanning hides works better with a wood ash pre-soak. 90003 90016 Removing Tannins from Acorns 90019 90002 Acorns were a staple food supply for ancient peoples around the globe, not just native Americans. They were critical to the stone age and iron age food supply in Greece, Italy, Spain, North Africa and throughout Asia. The earliest direct evidence of their importance in the food supply comes from an archeological site in Morrocco dated to around 15,000 BC. 90003 90002 All acorns must be leached of tannins prior to consumption, regardless of the type of acorn or the peoples that consumed them.Leaching strategies differed across regions, but most involved soaking the acorns in several changes of water to remove the water-soluble tannin, leaving a sweet, nutritious acorn flour. 90003 90002 While adding wood ash to acorn leaching is not strictly necessary, its use as a leaching agent arose in multiple locations across the globe. The theory is that wood ash helps to leach tannins more effectively, binding them so that they are removed from the acorn flour easier. The flavor is changed in the process, and sources I’ve read noted that the resulting acorns taste more like pickled olives than starchy nuts.Depending on the tastes fo the culture, this may have been seen as a positive or negative change, but regardless, the consensus was this processing step rendered the acorn flour more nutritious and digestible. 90003 90002 This fall, we harvested a large crop of acorns and I’m still slowly working through processing them all into flour, acorn coffee, roast acorn nuts and all manner of delicious acorn based foods. Thus far I’ve only done hot water and cold water leaches, but I’ve saved some aside for wood ash leaching this winter, with fresh clean hardwood ashes from our woodstove.90003 90002 Acorn flour is sometimes processed with wood ash to help bind the tannins for removal. 90003 90016 Icelandic Moss 90019 90002 Iceland may be beautiful, but it is not exactly known for being the land of milk and honey. Before modern trade, life was hard and the traditional cuisine reflects that. The Nordic Cookbook (which is one of my favorite cookbooks of all time, seriously read it …) describes how Icelandic moss was prepared using wood ash, to leach out the toxins and render it edible: 90003 90002 90111 «[Icelandic Moss] is rich in carbohydrates and has historically been of vital importance as a source of food in the region.It contains a lot of mildly toxic lichenic acid, which will upset your tummy and taste very bitter. The lichen was traditionally made digestible by soaking it before cooking in potash, a potassium carbonate solution produced by soaking wood ashes in water. » 90114 90003 90002 He then describes how the lichen was eaten with porridge or other grains to help add calories during lean times. He notes that some traditional Icelandic breads that you can buy in the store still contain ash treated lichen as an ingredient.You can buy Icelandic Moss by the pound for use in recipes, cosmetics and for medicinal use. 90003 90016 90017 Putting Out a Fire 90018 90019 90002 The most obvious and practical use for ashes in a primitive world is putting out the fire. Simply bury a campfire in ashes to help smother it. 90003 90016 90081 Outhouse Deodorizer 90082 90019 90002 Since wood ash helps absorb the smell and boosts compost, it can work double duty in an outhouse or composting toilet. Add a small amount to help boost speed the breakdown, but be careful not too add too much and change the chemistry too much.90003 90002 It might also be helpful on extended camping trips … 90003 90016 90081 Wood Ash Pottery Glaze 90082 90019 90002 An ancient form of pottery glaze that is still used today, wood ash glazes originate around 1500 bc in China. We’ve played around a bit with making primitive pottery, harvesting the clay from our own backyard. I’m excited about trying out wood ash glazes on our homemade bowls. Here are detailed instructions on how to turn fireplace ash into a glaze, along with a bit more of the history behind wood ash glazes.90003 .90000 Try Wood Ash As A Soil Fertilizer: {Good To Know} 90001 90002 Consider saving the ashes from this summer’s campfires, backyard fire pits and even your home’s fireplace or wood stove, did you know they can be spread throughout the garden to act as an organic soil booster? They’ll also deter pests too! Here’s how it works: 90003 90004 90004 It’s Surprising What You Can Use As A Garden Booster 90002 Wood ashes contain potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium which encourage strong root and stem growth.90003 90002 It’s main benefit as a garden pick-me-up though is that it increases the soil’s alkalinity (which you’ll want if it’s acidic). It’s considered a substitute for garden lime since they both sweeten soil, though keep in mind that the ashes will produce results faster since they’re more water soluble. 90003 90002 90011 Important! 90012 Do not use if soil is alkaline, test first if you’re unsure. 90003 90002 90015 How to use 90016: Sprinkle them on top of tilled dirt then take a rake and mix in evenly, make sure to break down any clumps since a heavy concentration will result in a potentially harmful salt spot once it gets wet.90003 90002 Apply when the dirt is dry, it’s not windy and at least 3 weeks before planting to give it a chance to work its magic (and not be too strong for seedlings). 90003 90002 90011 How much to use 90012: It’s advised to use no more than 25 gallons per тисячу square feet per year (source) and that you test the soil before each application. 90003 90002 If you’ve already planted, you can still take advantage of it by simply side-dressing around growing plants. Use it in vegetable gardens, flower beds, around shrubs and even on your lawn! Some tips: (source) 90003 90026 90027 90011 Rose bushes & shrubs 90012: Treat with 1/2 to 1 pound of wood ash (per year).90030 90027 90011 Lawns 90012: Apply no more than 10 to 15 pounds of ash per 1,000 square feet of lawn (only if soil pH is less than 7.0, do not use if potassium levels are high). 90030 90035 90002 90015 Natural pest repellent? 90016 You bet! Bugs such as garden slugs and snails are not fond of scraping their bellies across the ashes so they’ll move on to find more friendlier ground. To be effective you’ll need to spread a fresh batch around plants after each rain, just a lightly sprinkled layer will do (a light layer also will not sway the pH level that much so you can use it without too much concern).90003 90002 They are pretty strong at first and can burn a plant’s leaves if it comes in contact with them, rinse plants well after dressing. Do not sprinkle too close to young plants since they’re more sensitive to direct contact. 90003 90042 Tips 90043 90026 90027 You can also add them to the compost pile (about every 6 «or so), this helps reduce odors and increase the rate of decomposition (not too heavy, just a light layer will do). 90030 90027 Do not use any that came from wood that had a chemical preservative applied and only use if produced from wood fires that have not included other items (since they may contain traces of harmful materials for the dirt or plants).90030 90027 Remember, this is a substitute for lime which means it decreases a soil’s acidity. Do not use around acid loving plants (such as blueberries). 90030 90027 Those from hardwoods contain more nutrients than found in softwoods. Also those from young wood contain more nutrients than those from older wood. 90030 90027 If the ashes were exposed to rain before being collected, are they still good to use? Not really, the nutrients will seep out with the water (which is fine when they’ve already been applied to the garden but not before).90030 90027 Wear eye protection, a mask and gloves when handling since it can be harmful if you breathe it in or gets in your eyes. 90030 90027 How to store: keep tightly sealed in a container so they stay dry until needed. 90030 90035.90000 Using Wood Ash in the Vegetable Garden 90001 90002 Bonfires are a contentious issue, what with smoke and global warming. Personally, I love them, though I go for the fast and furious approach of an incinerator, piling everything in and (a personal best) achieving a spurt of flame two-foot high from the chimney. Reservations aside, a fire gives you the great satisfaction of getting rid of perennial weeds, branches too thick for the shredder, and diseased material while, at the same time, producing a valuable by-product: ash.90003 90002 Wood ash (as opposed to coal ash) can be a great addition to the garden. It contains potassium or potash (they’re not identical but — scientists look away now — the terms are often used interchangeably), and potassium is a vital nutrient for crops. 90003 90002 Just as it does in humans, potassium regulates plants ‘water balance (so tissue is firm and juicy), and has a part in transporting food within the plant and creating sugars and starches. Without enough, vegetables are more vulnerable to drought, frost, pests and diseases.90003 90002 By now, I hope you’re reaching for the matches. However, bonfires are not the only source of ash and the increasing popularity of wood-burning stoves means that more people have to dispose of a lot more ash. In fact, a cord of wood (the standard unit of firewood in Canada and USA, measuring 4 x 4 x 8 feet (120 x 120 x 240 cm) is likely to produce around 25 lbs (over 11 kg) of ashes. Ideal for the garden? Well, yes, except you can have too much of a good thing, and you do need to think about where you put it.90003 90010 90011 Add Ash to the Compost Heap 90012 90002 Wood ashes make a great addition to the compost heap, where they’ll aid fertility (most of the nutrients needed by plants are contained in them to some degree). If you have a lot, do not add them all at once as they are alkaline and raising the pH too much will affect the bacteria and worms at work. It’s better to keep the ash in a nearby container and sprinkle on a layer every so often. 90003 90002 If you tend to compost a lot of acidic material, such as fruit waste, the ashes will help to keep the compost at a lower pH and reduce the need to lime the vegetable plots at a later date.90003 90011 Wood Ash as a Substitute for Lime 90012 90002 Speaking of liming, because ashes are alkaline, it is possible to substitute them for the usual ground limestone. However, home-produced ash is not a standardized product, which means its content will vary. 90003 90002 Hardwoods, for example, generally produce more ash and contain more nutrients than softwood. According to the very thorough information from Oregon State University Extension Service, ash from a cord of oak will provide enough potassium for a garden 60 x 70 feet, whereas a cord of Douglas Fir will be sufficient for a garden 30 x 30 feet, while both will raise the soil pH slightly.Bonfire ash is even more variable, because of the mix of plant tissue. 90003 90002 Like the potash content, the calcium carbonate content will also vary (although it’s unlikely to contain more than half that of ground limestone), so it’s a good idea to test the pH of your soil before adding the ash and three to six months after , to check on its effect. It would not hurt to check up on the potassium content while you’re at it. There’s no point in adding potash to a soil that’s already high in potassium, as too much can affect the plants ‘take-up of other nutrients.90003 90025 Wood ash provides potassium which is essential for fruit crops 90011 Where Not to Use Wood Ash in the Garden 90012 90002 Being alkaline, wood ash obviously is not an ideal addition if your soil already has a pH of 7.5 or greater. There’s no point in spreading it around acid-loving plants such as blueberries. Nor is it recommended for areas where you intend to grow potatoes (much though they enjoy potassium) as increased alkalinity can encourage the fungus, potato scab. 90003 90002 It’s also worth remembering that potash is extremely soluble, so keep it absolutely dry before you use it (this includes before adding it to the compost heap).Leave your ashes out in the rain and all the potash will wash out and you’ll be left with a sticky and fairly useless sludge. If you pile a large amount of ash in one area, you also risk over-liming that area and damaging nearby plants. 90003 90011 Adding Ash Direct to the Soil 90012 90002 All this sounds rather alarming, but I do not mean it to. Those of us who have the occasional bonfire will not be damaging the soil with the small amount of resulting ash but rather adding a little of one of the nutrients that plants use most.90003 90002 Sprinkling ash straight onto the soil also deters slugs and snails (the moment it gets wet, this effect unfortunately vanishes). I have not tried it myself, but some recommend sprinkling ash in the drills when you sow carrots, and dusting it on turnips to keep carrot and turnip fly away. 90003 90002 I generally add ash to the soil in spring and autumn, but it can be spread it around at other times whenever it’s available and you might as well if you know you can not keep it bone-dry.Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, peas and beans (pods are a better weight and colour) and fruit all appreciate potash. 90003 90002 Regarding fruit, if you have only a little potash, it should go to dessert apples, redcurrants and gooseberries first, then to cooking apples, pears, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries. Plums, apricots, cherries and blackcurrants appreciate a regular sprinkle, but do not need it so much. 90003 90002 In summary: 90003 90044 90045 Keep ash dry before use.90046 90045 Test your soil before spreading large amounts around. 90046 90045 Use it in particular around root vegetables, peas and beans, apple trees and soft fruit bushes. 90046 90051 90002 By Helen Gazeley 90003 .