Which Plants Should Not Be Fertilized with Ash – Forget About a Good Harvest

For gardeners in Lithuania, wood ash presents a readily available and cost-effective source of essential nutrients for their plants. Rich in phosphorus, potassium, and calcium, ash can significantly benefit root development, flowering, and overall plant immunity. However, as Delfi.lt points out, a nuanced understanding of its application is crucial to avoid detrimental effects. Not all plants thrive on alkaline soil; those that prefer acidity, including many conifers, flowering shrubs like hydrangeas and rhododendrons, and certain berries like blueberries, will suffer if treated with ash. Furthermore, gardeners must be mindful of soil composition. Adding ash to soil already high in potassium can result in bitter-tasting fruits and leaf drop, while excessive calcium can cause young shoots to wither and white spots to appear on leaves. The article also cautions against mixing ash with urea or manure, as this combination can be harmful to plants. When used correctly, adhering to recommended dosages – no more than a glass per square meter for dry ash or 150-250g per 10 liters of water for a solution – wood ash can be a valuable amendment. The piece specifically highlights its benefits for tomatoes, a popular crop among Lithuanian gardeners, offering guidance on its application after transplanting seedlings.