Experienced gardeners know well that ordinary ash is a very useful fertilizer. Ash contains about thirty beneficial and nutritious substances for plants. The main ones are nitrogen and iodine. Ash has a particularly positive effect on heavy soil and on the plants grown in it. It also reduces the acidity of sandy and clay soils, improves their composition, and increases productivity. Shale ash contains 65–80% lime components, while coal ash is rich in calcium. Both improve the structure and composition of heavy soils. Ash is applied to the soil in autumn. As a result, the nitrogen content in the soil increases and the activity of microorganisms accelerates. Ash is most often applied under potatoes and peas. However, keep in mind that excessive use of ash may damage the soil structure. Ash can also be mixed with humus, manure, and fine sand before application. However, it is not recommended to apply it together with poultry manure, lime, or nitrogen fertilizers. In greenhouses, applying ash mixed with water gives good results. Birch wood ash contains 37% calcium, 14% potassium, and 7% phosphorus; willow ash contains 43% potassium; sunflower ash contains 36% potassium and 18% calcium; wheat and rye straw ash contains 5–6% phosphorus; potato tops ash contains 20% potassium, 8% phosphorus, and 32% calcium.
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