The Art of Extending High Altitude Gardening
Mission:Wolf
Wild about Wolves - Keep Wolves Wild.
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Ten Uses for Wood Ashes
From fertilizer to mulch, sidewalk deicer to fire extinguisher--there's no end to the uses for your not-so-lowly wood ashes. A cord of wood produces about fifty pounds of ashes, what can I do with them? Ashes from different types of wood vary slightly in their chemical composition, but all kinds of ashes can be used for the following: |
Fertilizer - Ashes produce 50 to 70% lime, they also contain phosphorus, potash and trace elements. All of these are good for the garden. Sifting will produce the best quality material.
Mulch & Compost Helper - Extend the volume of other types of mulch and compost heaps with ashes. Some say use caution around roses and acid-loving plants.
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Fire Extinguisher - A large quantity of ashes dumped onto an out of control fire will help extinguish it, by smothering the fire.
Insect Repellent - Sprinkle ashes beside the row crops and on natural paths thru the garden to help discourage slugs and snails. Spread ashes at the ends of your chicken runs, flock will use it for dusting baths.
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Sidewalk/Driveway Deicer - Ashes have the ability to melt ice and snow. They can help increase traction around your tires in winter situations.
Deodorizer - Ashes suppress odors.
Cement - Mix a quart of sifted hardwood ashes only with cup of salt and enough warm water to make a thick paste. Works like a commercial stovepipe/chimney cement without the asbestos.
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