14 Surprising Uses for Wood Ashes

Garden Fertilizer:
Wood ash is rich in potassium and calcium, making it a natural fertilizer. Sprinkle lightly over vegetable gardens to help plants thrive.

Compost Booster:
Add ashes to your compost pile to balance acidity and speed up decomposition.

Pest Deterrent:
A thin line of wood ash around plants can repel slugs, snails, and some soft-bodied pests.

Soil pH Adjuster:
Wood ash is alkaline. Sprinkle on acidic soil to raise pH naturally. Test your soil first!

Ice and Snow Melt:
Sprinkle ashes on icy walkways in winter—it’s a natural alternative to salt.

Cleaning Agent:
Mix ashes with a bit of water to create a gentle abrasive paste for scrubbing glass, silverware, or stovetops.

Odor Neutralizer: