How to reuse wood ash?

The ash from the combustion of wood is an excellent resource for agriculture, since it is full of nutrients for our soils. They also have other applications in our homes, we will see in this article their different uses.

The ashes of wood, before the period when man began to dominate the technique of fire, were only natural products generated by the combustion forest vegetation, which occurred due to fires caused by the lightning or high temperatures. Today, human action has increased the occurrence of forest fires, which has a significant impact on the environment and generates large quantities of wood ash.

The advantage of these massive combustions is that the wood ash has applications natural and beneficial, especially in Agriculture. However, care must be taken to use only natural wood ash from ovens and fireplaces wood, because cigarette ashes have harmful agents.

Ash is a remarkable source of macronutrients such as potassium and the phosphorus, but also of calcium, of magnesium and a little sulfur. It also contains traces of iron, of manganese, of zinc, of copper, of sodium and of molybdenum. It brings essential nutrients balanced plant development and is free of pollutants and contaminants, making it an excellent ally for the gardener.

The different uses of wood ash

Neutralize soil acidity

By neutralizing the acidity of the soil, the ash contributes to the reduction of the acidity of the soil. They contain calcium carbonate and can be used as a substitute for the lime, with the advantage of acting faster, thanks to the small size of their particles.

In Agriculture, the application of ash minimizes production costs, reduces the use of chemical fertilizers, and increases the content of matter organic soil. In this way, their use contributes to a healthier planet and diet.

Feed your compost

Wood ash added to your compost will help increase the dosage potassium, an essential nutrient for flowering and fruiting. But the inclusion of wood ash in the compost should be done in moderation. Too much would cause the pH to rise above 7.5, damaging your plants.

Add to plants with a calcium requirement

Although the shell Egg is an excellent source of calcium for gardens, wood ash contains valuable amounts of calcium carbonate. Spread them sparingly around plants that have a higher need for calcium: apples, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, lettuce, Brussels sprouts and celery.

Fertilize your soils

A little wood ash on the lawn can help make your pastures greener. After applying the ashes in your garden, wet them to prevent the wind spread the good nutrients in L'air.

Make soap

The first ones soaps were made by the ancient Babylonians around 2800 BC and use a mixture of animal fat and wood ash. The welded caustic is created from the ashes. When mixed with animal fats or vegetable oils, it turns into soap.

Polish metals and glass

Wood ash is abrasive and can be used to polish silverware, metals dull and cloudy glass. Take a cup of ash and add a little water to get a thick paste. With gloves on rubber, spread this paste on all your objects to be treated. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before cleaning it with a clean cloth.

Absorb bad odors

As the baking soda and the coal vegetable, the wood ashes are alkaline and can absorb and neutralize bad odors. You can put some wood ash in a small bowl and leave it in the fridge or in a closed room.

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