Is it a good idea to burn winter-fallen leaves and tree limbs in my garden plot during the winter months when nothing is growing in the garden? I have heard that it is good to let the pot ash that comes from this fire settle into the soil.
Applying wood ashes will raise the soil pH. I’d suggest you have your soil tested so you know what you’re working with and then apply the ashes only if the test indicates that the soil is low in pot ash — and even then limit the amount you use and apply it only every two to three years.
The soil in the Pacific Northwest is quite acidic just naturally. You can cause serious imbalances by applying too much wood ash too often.
Celeste Lindsay is a certified Master Gardener. Send questions to mslindsay8@gmail.com.
