Question re Charcoal ash from the barbie

sb44

Is the ash left over from a barbie any good for plants?

Seems a shame to throw it away if it can be put to good use.

alanobrien

Yes it can be used with plants, i mix it in with a little compost and use it that way but it can also be used as a direct mulch around trhe base of plants.

sb44

alanobrien wrote: »

Yes it can be used with plants, i mix it in with a little compost and use it that way but it can also be used as a direct mulch around trhe base of plants.

Brilliant!

Thanks for your advice, off to scoop it out now.

emmilou

can it go in the compost bin then?

alanobrien

emmilou wrote: »

can it go in the compost bin then?

Yes no problem, in fact some compost you buy will contain a percentage of ash, wickes compost certainly does, its very visible but is great compost

blurrygirl

I started composting last year and read on a few different sites that coal ash wasnt good for compost, however wood ash is fine. I have never used coal ash in it but if others have and it causes no probs then it should be fine. Im not the worlds best gardener, so ill follow any advice i can to try and keep my plants alive!!

BUBBLES_3

Wood ash is a great source of Potash which is an essential plant nutrient for giving good colour in flowers and better taste in fruit and veg. PH is usually above 6 so its classed as alkyline so not good for applying around acid loving plants like Rhodies etc.

Mix in with compost heap or scatter onto soil thinly. Too good to waste!

Kaz2904

Charcoal used for bbq is made from wood so not to worry about coal on the plants. Would any firelighters used for the ignition still be hanging around or would they just burn off during the fire?

Ice_2

don't know if this will help anyone but I put my ash from the bonfire on weeds at the bottom of the garden that I can't get to because of my fence and it kills them...just be carefull you don't kill your plants...:D