Content
How Much Ash to Add to Soil for Seedlings: Strengthening Plants Wisely
28.04.2024 05:20
Ash is a valuable organic fertilizer, rich in minerals necessary for the growth and development of plants.
However, when using it, it is necessary to observe moderation, since excess ash can harm the seedlings.
Anastasia Kovrizhnykh , an expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", an agronomist and landscape designer, told how to act in such a situation.
Ash composition: mineral richness
Ash contains potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and other microelements necessary for the formation of a healthy root system, stems and leaves.
It also helps improve soil structure, its air permeability and water permeability.
Types of ash: dosage depends on the choice
• Wood ash: obtained by burning deciduous wood (birch, aspen, oak). It is rich in potassium and calcium.
• Ash of herbaceous plants: obtained by burning the stems and leaves of plants (sunflower, buckwheat, cereals). It is rich in phosphorus and potassium.
• Peat ash: obtained by burning peat. It contains fewer nutrients than wood and grass ash.
Ash dosage: keeping to the measure
The amount of ash that can be added to the soil for seedlings depends on several factors.
• Type of ash: wood ash is less concentrated than grass ash, so it can be added in larger quantities.
• Soil type: on poor soils the dosage of ash can be increased, on fertile soils it can be decreased.
• Plant Type: Different plants have different nutrient needs.
On average, it is recommended to add 100 to 300 grams of ash per 1 square meter to the soil for seedlings. Ash can be added in dry form when preparing the soil or as an infusion.
Methods of applying ash: a variety of options
• Dry application: ash is evenly distributed over the soil surface and raked in to a depth of 5-10 cm.
• Preparation of infusion: pour 1 glass of ash with 10 liters of water and leave for a week, stirring occasionally .
The resulting infusion is used to water the seedlings at the roots.
Limitations and contraindications: precautions
1. Do not use ash from burning household waste, plastic, rubber and other synthetic materials. It may contain harmful substances.
2. Do not apply ash to the soil at the same time as nitrogen fertilizers. This may lead to nitrogen losses.
3. Do not use ash on acidic soils. It can further increase the acidity.
4. Use ash with caution for seedlings of plants that prefer acidic soil (hydrangea, azalea, rhododendron).
Earlier we talked about how to feed winter garlic in the spring.
