Fireplace ashes contain many nutrients that plants use, so recycle them after cleaning out your fireplace. Collect the ashes from your fireplace, save them in a sealed container, and, in the spring, scatter them over your flowers and vegetables. The nutrients in the ashes will help to keep your plants healthy.
However, be careful not to overuse them. Use no more than one quart per 100 sq. ft. in flowerbeds or two quarts in the garden.
Cynthia Johnson, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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