Gardeners use various food waste to feed flowers, but ash remains one of the most effective fertilizers. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants.
Ash contains beneficial elements necessary for the growth and development of plants. The main ones include:
1. Phosphorus – promotes the improvement of the root system development.
2. Potassium – a micronutrient that increases plants' resistance to various diseases.
3. Magnesium – an essential micronutrient needed for photosynthesis.
4. Calcium – reduces soil acidity and prevents disease development.
Gardeners note that ash can improve soil quality in the area. It also effectively repels aphids and other common pests that may appear on plants.
Popular Types of Ash
To obtain fertilizer, it is necessary to burn straw, deciduous trees, grass, or branches. After that, the ash is ready for use. Experienced gardeners do not recommend using yellow ash, as this may indicate a high iron content.
The best chemical composition is considered to be ash obtained from various sources. Slate and peat ash have minimal amounts of beneficial substances and will not provide the desired effect.
Methods of Using “Dry” Ash
Experts assert that both “dry” ash and infusions can be used for fertilizing plants. If you plan to use ash in its dry form, it is sufficient to simply mix it with the soil. This fertilizer is suitable for many garden plants, but it works particularly well for geraniums and fuchsias. For treating an area of 10 square meters, about 4 kilograms of ash will be required.
Preparation of Ash Infusion and Decoction
Some gardeners prefer to use infusions made from ash. To prepare it, take 3 tablespoons of ash and add them to 1 liter of water, steeping for one week. This infusion is excellent for fertilizing indoor plants. If you plan to fertilize garden flowers, 400 ml of infusion will be required per 1 square meter.
The recipe for the decoction from ash is slightly different. To prepare it, pour 4 tablespoons of ash with two cups of water and boil for 30 minutes.
The finished decoction is recommended for spraying or foliar feeding. This type of feeding is most effective in spring when plants need a large amount of beneficial elements.
Does Ash Help Against Pests
Ash can also be used to repel certain pests in the area. This is indeed an effective method for combating aphids and slugs. The method works well in enclosed gardens where the wind cannot disperse the ash. Ash can be used to protect indoor plants from small fleas.
For protection, it is necessary to wipe the leaves with an ash-soap decoction. Gardeners recommend performing the treatment on cool days. After this procedure, do not spray the flowers with water.
Leave a comment