I disagree. If Lester is trying to grow plants native to our area, the
increase in acidity *could* be a problem since native Central Texas plants
generally prefer some amount of alkalinity. But if he or she is trying to
grow vegetables in the garden or any of the MANY not-exactly-native plants
that can do well here but suffer to some extent from our excessive
alkalinity, the ashes will be of benefit. And recycling brush in the
city: (1) if Lester is clearing brush and burning it, this probably means
his/her property is outside the city; and (2) putting brush in the landfill
really seems wrong to me. Instead, shouldn't we try our best to recycle this
waste by composting or burning it (or both), instead?

alternate



"Terry Horton" wrote in message
...
On Thu, 26 Jun 2003 13:13:24 GMT, wrote:

I have a lot of trees, and during the brief winters, burn wood in a
fireplace insert to heat the house. I've been burning small brush
piles once a year in the garden area and dumping fireplace ashes.

What is the cumulative effect of ashes on the soil chemistry?

In our alkaline soil the effect to note is a negative one - increased
pH. If you're in the city you can recycle brush at curbside.